L IV E TH E A M ER IC AN D R E A M Start a business — be your own boss
Make your passion — your business
$$$$$$$$$$$$$ In the
50
B I LLI ON D o llar Pet I ndus t r y !
Become a Profitable Magazine Publisher • • • • •
financial freedom control your destiny flexibility, independence get invited to all the parties meet new people, make great friends
• work from home • save money, time and gas • spend a lot more time with family – which is priceless!
The American Dog Magazine is now releasing select cities and states so you can enjoy life, while making money doing something you love! For more information visit:
w w w. t h e a me ri ca n dogm a g. com
Ta k e C h a rg e of Your Fut ur e No w ! *This is not a franchise and you avoid all the costly, never-ending fees!
• Become a Successful Magazine Publisher and Own a Magazine! Choose your city or state now and live the dream
• 20 Pre-release Specials at Fabulous Introductory Prices Start your own business as low as $18,000
THE NEW YORK CITY DOG
www.newyorkcitydog.com
(pop. 8.3 million)
*****$60,000
THE VIRGINIA DOG
www.thevirginiadog.com
(pop. 7.8 million )
*****SOLD
THE COLORADO DOG
www.thecoloradodog.com
(pop. 5 million )
*****SOLD
THE LOS ANGELES DOG
www.thelosangelesdog.com
(pop. 3.9 million )
*****SOLD
THE CHICAGO DOG
www.thechicagodog.com
(pop. 2.9 million )
*****$44,000
THE HOUSTON DOG
www.thehoustondog.com
(pop. 2.2 million)
*****$39,000
DALLAS/FT WORTH DOG
www.dallasftworthdog.com
(pop. 1.9 million )
*****$37,000
THE PHOENIX DOG
www.thephoenixdog.com
(pop. 1.5 million)
*****SOLD
THE PHILADELPHIA DOG
www.thephiladelphiadog.com
(pop. 1.4 million)
*****$34,000
THE SAN ANTONIO DOG
www.thesanantoniodog.com
(pop. 1.3 million)
*****$33,000
THE SAN JOSE DOG
www.thesanjosedog.com
(pop. 940,000)
*****$30,000
THE DETROIT DOG
www.thedetroitdog.com
(pop. 920,000
*****$30,000
THE INDIANAPOLIS DOG
www.theindianapolisdog.com
(pop. 800,000)
*****$28,000
THE SAN FRANCISCO DOG
www.thesanfranciscodog.com
(pop. 775,000)
*****$28,000
THE MEMPHIS DOG
www.thememphisdog.com
(pop. 675,000)
*****$25,000
THE BOSTONIAN DOG
www.thebostoniandog.com
(pop. 600,000)
*****$25,000
THE MILWAUKEE DOG
www.themilwaukeedog.com
(pop. 600,000
*****$25,000
THE WASHINGTON DC DOG
www.thewashingtondcdog.com
(pop. 600,000)
THE NEW ORLEANS DOG
www.theneworleansdog.com
(pop. 475,000
*****$21,000
THE HONOLULU DOG
www.thehonoluludog.com
(pop. 375,000
*****$18,000
*****$25,000
**Introductory price includes domain name, custom built web aite, all expense paid training course, attorney fees, everything you need to know and forgot to ask about running a successful magazine and making a profit! **Don’t see your city here? Turn to page 136-137 for more pre-release specials at introductory prices! The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 3
Biovet Testimonials Kaya, a 13-year-old Husky-Lab mix. She had severe hip and arthritis pain in her hind legs. Four days after taking the Biovet Antioxidant Pet Wafer, her pain subsided. After just seven days, she is able to walk normally. Thank you Biovet! - S. Lamb Hopi, a 15-year-old yellow lab. She had lost her strength in her hind legs. Thanks to Biovet Pet Wafer, her quality of life has improved. She is back to chasing cats again. - D. Durazo The Biovet Pet Wafer has brought back the sparkle in my dogs’ eyes. Their coats are soft and silky again, thanks to Biovet. The best part is that they look forward to their daily “treat.” They love the taste. - T. Costa Riley is half bull mastiff and half lab. He has Lymphoma, and the Chemo has made his hind legs weak and wobbly. Thanks to Biovet Dismutase, he is improving. Thank you, Biovet. - E. Cushing A 10-year-old Border Collie Mix could not stand on his hind legs. The right leg had atrophied and he could not put weight on it for two years. Thanks to Dismutase, in two days he was walking. In just one week, he was putting weight on the leg he had not used in two years. - M. Mitchell Sylvie, a long-haired miniature Dachshund, had become paralyzed in her back legs. Thirteen months after surgery and twice-daily doses of Dismutase, Sylvie walked again! Thank you, Biovet. - M. Fisher
For more information please call toll free: (800) 468-7578
www.bioVet.net
Is your backyard
pet friendly? National Landscape Design Serving All 50 States Residential and Commercial Full Service Design Firm
America’s Pet Friendly Landscape Firm • landscape design
• outdoor living
• water features
• specialty gardens
• xeriscaping
• walkways & courtyards
877-223-6744 www.pawfriendlylandscapes.com
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
features
18 Importance of Social Media 20 Cover Story
Bonnie-Jill Laflin 24 Canine Cooking with Deb Dempsey 34 Dry Kibble Featured for Dogs 36 No Time to Bake? Try these tasty, delicious treats 38 Raw Meaty Bones Part of a healthy, raw food diet 42 No Time to Cook? Try these nutritious canned foods 44 “Marmaduke” hits theaters in June Be a responsible parent, just say NO! 46 Chester’s Top Ten “To-Do” List Activities to jump-start your summer 53 Stop It! Protect the Pitties from Insane BSL Laws Killing Them 58 Disaster Response Dogs Saving Lives in Haiti 62 Documentary Filmmaker TomMcPhee Arrives in Haiti after the earthquake 132 Effects of Mandatory Spay/Neuter Laws 138 One Final Thought
Summer 2010 VOLUME 3, ISSUE 2
columns 98
100 102
Hygiene
Pet Stain & Odor Extractor Landscape
Pet hazards in the garden utrition: Your Dog Needs More N Than Just Fast Food to Thrive!
106 G rooming 108
Dog days of summer Dr’s Corner
Snake Bites
111
Dr’s Corner
115
og News: West Hollywood Bans D Puppy Mill Sales
116 119 122 124
Dental hygiene for your dog
Wellness: Alternative Options
Julia Szabo and her dog Tiki
Health
Benefits of Melaleuca Oil Dog Training: Doug Simpson
Toy Aggression
Dog Training: Doug Simpson
Food Aggression
125
Dog Training: M. Wombacher
128
og Law: When Couples Break Up, D Who Gets the Dog?
Dog-on-Dog Aggression 126 D og Training Human Aggression
134
Bedtime Books & DVDs
On the Cover: Cover shot of Bonnie-Jill Laflin photographed by Heather Green of Heather Green Photography.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS (cont’d) Summer 2010
the dog scene 66
IZ HOLZEMER L Role Reversal
68 CELEBRITY PROFILE 70
Elaine Hendrix
DEAR MELISSA Celebrity Pet Communicator
73 ROLE MODEL
Paula & Peter Fasseas
74 HUMANITARIAN
68
Elaine Hendrix
Alex Pacheco
77 ROLE MODEL Gary Sherman
78 ROLE MODEL
Puppy Graduates Kindergarden
80 FUNDRAISING EVENT
HSUS Dallas Puppymill Gala
82 GO INTERNET SHOPPING: Shop Till You Drop With the Click of a Mouse
84 AN AMAZING KID
Jack Lanting Saving Elephants
86 TRAVEL IN STYLE
Dassault Falcon 900EX Jet
88 WORKING DOGS 90
Guide Dogs for the Blind FEATURED NON-PROFIT Santa Cruz SPCA
92 UNLEASH BROOKLYN
Holistic Loft for Cats and Dogs
94 FEATURED NON-PROFIT Olympic Animal Sanctuary
96 FEATURED NON-PROFIT Hope For Paws
12 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Photo by Heather Green
The Meat, Not the Potatoes of Grain Free Diets! CANIDAE GRAIN FREE The perfect choice for wholesome nutrition and increased energy. All natural holistic formulas made in the USA from only the highest quality ingredients. 80% of Total Protein from Meats and Fish 20% from Vegetables and Fruits Grain Free ALS formula
Grain Free Salmon formula with no corn, wheat, soy, grain fractions or fillers, and Naturally Preserved!
www.canidae.com
Publisher’s Note
Founder/Publisher Jamie M. Downey Associate Publisher Heather Green Associate Directors Sharyn Berglund Nancy Allen Editor in Chief Jamie M. Downey Editorial Director Lauren Wineberg Art Director Jane Brunton Editor at Large Julia Szabo Senior Editor David Revierter Photographer Heather Green Managing Editor Casey Rodarbal
Jamie M. Downey, Founder/Publisher with Cheyenne, Chester and Cassie
Yippee! Summer is right around the corner! WOOF! Cassie here. I just wanted to bark a huge hello to all the wonderful readers of The American Dog. It’s been a year and three months now since my mom, Jamie Downey, publisher of this magazine, adopted me out of a kill shelter in Illinois. I have to say that last summer was the best because we got to go swimming in the pool every day, and I’m really looking forward to just hanging out and having fun this summer! My mom told me that this issue is fabulous for us dogs because it’s all about good food (my favorite), great friends (I’m looking forward to meeting more), and fun times (can’t wait)! Since thinking about food is my favorite pastime, there are mouthwatering recipes to cook for dogs from pet nutrition expert Deb Dempsey that I can’t wait to taste! My mom told me that it’s good to add some variety to dogs’ food and I’m all for that. What dog would want to eat the same boring dog food day in and day out? Besides, have you seen some of the garbage (literally) that’s put in those big commercial dog foods? Yuck! I know this magazine is always educating readers to inspect the labels and see what’s being put in dog food, and reminding dog parents to stay away from all the bad food being made with unhealthy ingredients. I guess I’m lucky that my mom only buys her four-legged kids the best dog food on the market—plus she’s always cooking us something scrumptious for breakfast and dinner! Also, in this issue, my brother Chester talked mom into letting him pick his top ten fun things to do with your dog this summer—and of course, it’s all about what Chester wants to do! I have to admit, though, he picked some great outings (like going boating on a lake), but my all-time favorite would be the ice cream for dessert! Yummy, I can’t wait—how about right now? I also love going for rides in the car, so my mom is just going to have to make sure that we indulge in all top ten activities and have the most amazing summer ever! I hope all you dog lovers enjoy this summer issue and make sure you take your dogs for long walks, go on a road trip, and don’t forget about the ice cream for dessert! Love and kisses from Cassie Downey!
Heather Green, Associate Publisher with Bella, Remington and Jaidyn
14 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Photo Editor Kelly Mayer Senior Copy Editor Deborah Johnson Advertising Director Jamie M. Downey Sr. Account Executive Pam Wahl Production Coordinator Kim Thornton Distribution Manager John Haddock Business Manager Ann Jamison Subscription Manager Wanda Hoff Web Site Design/Manager Jen Griggs-Sebastian Contributing Photographers Heather Green, Jamie Downey, Tom McPhee, Marco Dormino, Stumberg-U.S. Navy, Nance Shutter,Viv Lanting, Lev Gorn, Sylvie Forrest, Cindy Nelson, Portia Shao Contributing Writers Dr. Barbara Royal, Dr. Stacy Meola, Julia Szabo, Carole Raphaelle Davis, Anna Morrison-Ricordati, Tamra Monahan, Doug & Elizabeth Simpson, Brett Titus, Deb Dempsey, Michael Wombacher, Lori Moreland, Julie Bielenberg, Elizabeth Bublitz, Melissa Bacelar, Jamie Downey, Liz Holzemer, Lynn Dowling, Kevin Green, Steve Markwell, Cindy Nelson, Kristy Schroeder, Audrey Hagar, Bett Sundermeyer, Viv Lanting, Jennifer Moulton 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 advertise@theamericandogmag.com Letters to the Editor/Story Ideas: Email to: editor@theamericandogmag.com
Subscription rate is $20 per year within the United States, Add $20 postage per year for Canadian subscriptions. We do not ship to foreign countries. U.S. funds only. 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 2010 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 reflect the views of the publisher.
From US Bison
100% NATURAL BISON RAWHIDE CHEWS
Tasman’s Natural Pet introduces our first ever super premium chew treats made from 100% natural bison rawhide! Because they are made from bison, they contain no hormones, no antibiotics and no harmful chemicals. Give your loving pets the best rawhide treats available anywhere in the world. Brightens and Cleans teeth Naturally May be suitable for dogs with food allergies No Hormones. No Antibodies
Satisfies a Dog’s urge to chew No harmful chemicals Completely Natural and Wholesome
For more information or to order please visit us on the web at
www.NaturesBestRawhide.com Genuine North American Elk Rawhide Chews coming soon…
RETAILER INQUIRIES WELCOME! CALL 502-403-2221 For more information about the benefits and future of the Bison industry, visit www.bisoncentral.com
Our Contributors Dr. Barbara Royal
Julia Szabo
Vererinarian Barbara Royal, DMV, has completed training in Veterinary Acupuncture, Advanced Chinese Herbal Medicine, Nutrition and Animal Physical Therapy and Healing Techniques. She is a published author and lecturer with her specialty practice, The Royal Treatment Veterinary Spa in Chicago, is a center for alternative medicine, nutrition and physical rehabilitation.
Blogger, Author, Animal Advocate The American Dog’s Editor at Large and a blogger for PajamasMedia.com, Julia gained a huge following writing the Sunday New York Post’s enormously popular “Pets” column for 11 years. A devoted dog rescuer who lives in NYC with four beloved K9s, she’s authored six books, including Pretty PetFriendly: Easy Ways to Keep Spot’s Dogs Stylish and Spotless (Howell Book House).
Dr. Stacy Meola
Carole Raphaelle Davis
Veterinarian Dr. Stacy Meola received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Colorado State University in 2006. After completing an internship at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital, she stayed on for a surgical internship. Dr. Meola is now continuing her training as a resident in Emergency and Critical Care.
Anna Morrison-Ricordati
Attorney at Law Anna Morrison-Ricordati is an attorney practicing animal welfare law and general civil litigation in Chicago, Illinois. Her practice includes overturning dangerous dog rulings to assisting animal related notfor-profit organizations with various legal issues. As an advocate, Anna seeks to protect animals from abuse under existing laws and further seeks to extend animal protection through legislative change.
Doug and Elizabeth Simpson
Dog Trainers Doug and Elizabeth Simpson have been working with animals all of their lives, and love to share their natural method of dog training with the goal of creating as many happy families as they can. They live on a wonderful little animal haven in Boulder, Colorado, and have been featured in many magazines, television shows and radio.
Actress, Author, Animal Advocate Carole Raphaelle Davis is an actress, animal welfare advocate and author of The Diary of Jinky, Dog of a Hollywood Wife. Carole is currently working on a new book and an investigation of pet factories that supply the public through pet shops and the Internet. Her Web site is: www.HollywoodJinky.com.
Deb Dempsey
Business Owner, Writer Deb is co-owner of Mouthful’s Pet Boutique, a hip and trendy shop located in Denver, Colorado and her company also manufactures their own line of natural treats for dogs and cats. Deb spends a huge amount of time researching pet health, nutrition, wellness and hygiene for all the products, foods and treats she carries in her store and keeps abreast of all the information regarding the pet industry.
Lorileigh Moreland
Business Owner, Writer Lori (along with her Newfoundland Magic) established Pet Empawrium & Spaw in 2002 for furfamilies with discriminating taste and aboveaverage involvement with their canine (and feline) fur-children. She now brings her knowledge, passion, and customer service to Arvada, Colorado.
Brett Titus
Melissa Bacelar
Michael Wombacher
Elizabeth Bublitz
K-9 SWAT Officer, Dog Trainer Brett is president of the Colorado Police K-9 Association and is actively involved in training dogs, schutzhund training and showing as well as performing his duties as a full-time SWAT police officer with the K-9 unit in Denver.
Dog Trainer Michael Wombacher is an author, lecturer and expert dog trainer for Bay Area celebrities and families, with over 20 years of hands-on training experience. Michael has written two dog training books, and offers the only digital book on how to prepare your dog for the arrival of a new baby, entitled Good Dog, Happy Baby. He is currently working on his first TV show.
16 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Actress, Producer, Model, Writer Melissa has been rescuing dogs in Los Angeles for the past 6 years and realized that she could communicate with animals through her rescue efforts. She donates 100% of the money she earns as a communicator to help homeless animals and is excited to help The American Dog Magazine’s readers talk with their pets.
Business Owner, Author Elizabeth is an author who owns Pawfriendly Landscapes, a national firm specializing in pet-friendly landscape design. Founded in 1998, her company gets the call that “the dog ate the yard”—and can be counted on to remedy the problem with organic, cost-effective materials and a uniquely creative approach.
ADVERTISEMENT
Solid Gold
Continues to Lead the Way, While other dog food companies follow In 1975, Solid Gold introduced Hund-n-Flocken, which was one of the first natural dog foods in the United States. Hund-n-Flocken (meaning dog food flake in German) had been a top seller in Germany for 20 years. Solid Gold dog foods contain natural ingredients. Our goal is to provide the highest quality nutrition to our pets. We never use soybeans, wheat, or corn, which some dogs are highly allergic to. They can cause severe skin allergies as well as large vet bills due to hot spots and infections. Instead, we use grains such as amaranth, millet, and barley. We never use beet pulp, which is a commonly used source of fiber in many other dog foods. Solid Gold was one of the first to use wild Alaskan salmon. However, in the past few years, government regulatory actions and depletion of natural schools have made it impossible to source enough wild caught salmon. We refuse to use farmed salmon, which are often fed genetically modified foods and can be contaminated with PCBs, so we are now using the very clean menhaden herring in all our dry dog foods. Many of our foods also contain range fed bison, which is an extremely healthy meat being low fat and humanely raised. It is very important to read the ingredient list on your pet’s foods as you will find many other companies use meat by products, the most common being chicken by-products. Solid Gold never uses meat by-products and we only use healthy fats full of omega fatty acids like canola oil, salmon oil, and flaxseed oil. In addition, our food bags are hermetically sealed with a one way valve that allows air out, but not in. This helps keep our natural foods fresh. At Solid Gold, we believe in being honest about our ingredients and our practices. We believe in better health through diet and nutrition. We answer to a higher power; that of our dogs and cats who look to us for their well being. They are cherished members of our families and deserve to live long, active lives. We feel feeding your pets Solid Gold will keep your pets happy and healthy. Cute story….. Did you know that the Ancient Chinese word for eclipse is “Shih”, which means “to eat.” If an eclipse was occurring, the people traditionally beat drums and banged pots to scare off the “heavenly dogs” believed to be devouring the sun.
Solid Gold is the only dog food company that is a member of the Organic Trade Association, the American Nutraceutical Association, the Medicinal Food Association, Nutraceutical Foods Association and the Life Extension Association.
For a catalog or store near you call or email us at: (619) 258-7356 or (619) 258-1914 (M-F 10-5 PST) or E-mail us at sarah@solidgoldhealth.com or www.solidgoldhealth.com Solid Gold Health Products for Pets, the Holistic Animal Nutrition Center 1331 N. Cuyamaca El Cajon, CA 92020
Don’t Overlook the Importance of for
Social Media You and Your Business!
We invite all our readers to become “fans” on Facebook: American Dog Magazine Colorado Dog Los Angeles Dog
D
oes your company have a Facebook fan page or a Twitter following? Do you personally have a Facebook account and have you reached your 5,000-friend limit yet?
If not, you better hurry and jump on the social media bandwagon and catch up to all the internet-savvy peeps out there ahead of you! Facebook and Twitter are great media tools to market and promote your Web site or business. By posting blogs, videos, Tweets, or newsworthy events, you are creating a buzz, and that makes the social media work. You can create a Facebook fan page for your business where you can connect and converse with your customers. There is no limit to how many fans you can have, so start branding your company and keep all your loyal fans up-to-date with the latest scoop on your biz. In addition, how many of you have made some great new friends that you met on Facebook? Not only does online media make your information available immediately to your friends and fans, but it can go viral and reach tens of thousands of people with just one posting—especially if it’s juicy!
California Dog Washington DC Dog
Become a “fan” of some of our wonderful businesses that advertise with us! Mouthful’s Pet Boutique Mulligan Stew Pet Empawrium & Spaw TMC Dog Wash Solutions Petzlife Pawfriendly Landscapes Evangers Dog and Cat Food 4U2ReUse Canidae Pet Foods
And please don’t forget these great nonprofits and become a fan on Facebook! Santa Cruz SPCA World Animal Awareness Society PAWS Chicago Olympic Animal Sanctuary Dogs Deserve Better Helen Woodward Animal Center Companion Animal Protection Society GREY2K USA Stray Rescue of St. Louis
18 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 19
COVER STORY
20 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Bonnie-Jill Laflin All-American Girl! By Carole Raphaelle Davis Photos by Heather Green
D
on’t judge a book by its cover—or a magazine. Bonnie-Jill Laflin, American Dog cover girl, is more than a model of exotic eye-candy. Sure, she has all the bombshell credentials—she’s a former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader and an international Maxim magazine cover girl who is on Maxim’s Hot 100 list. But beyond the striking exterior, Bonnie-Jill is a very accomplished person. Bonnie-Jill is the first and only female scout in the National Basketball Association for the Los Angeles Lakers. She’s also a sports broadcaster and just shot a pilot for ESPN, a sports TV show, with Jerry Rice of the 49ers. She’s working on a sports radio show, Angels on the Airwaves, which features three women talking sports with a little Hollywood entertainment thrown in. Her business interests include a clothing line she started with her friend Charla Braun, called Double Play Sportswear, an NBA clothing line for women. “I hate talking about myself,” said Bonnie-Jill when I pressed her to talk about her accomplishments. “People always doubt women in a man’s world. It’s a lot of hard work being the only female but it’s something I’m proud of because I’ve worked my butt off to be where I’m at. It’s a man’s world and it’s grinding and I’ve proven a lot of people wrong who doubted me.” Bonnie-Jill has always been ambitious. “A lot of what I wanted to do when I was little, I’ve achieved, “ she says. “In middle school, I said I was going to be a cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys. I said I was going to run my own team and now I am.” One aspect of her life she is most proud of is her support of our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. “I’ve been to Iraq and Afghanistan six times on USO tours,” says Bonnie-Jill. She has combined that effort with her love of dogs who are suffering in the war zone by supporting an organization called Operation Baghdad Pups. “There are so many stray dogs over there,” she explains, “and service men and women get attached to these dogs because they’re a reminder of home. This program gets these dogs and brings them back.”
Bonnie-Jill is disappointed that the Armed Services don’t fully support this type of activism. “The high ranking brass in the Armed Services think they [soldiers] should focus on their work, not the dogs,” says Bonnie-Jill. “I’ve gone to certain bases where the soldiers have dogs and they’ve told me they really want to bring a dog back and I tell them about this program. Around three hundred dogs have been saved and they have people who volunteer to foster the dogs until they get back. It’s a really neat program.” “I’ve been to Iraq and Afghanistan six times on USO tours,” says Bonnie-Jill. She has combined that effort with her love of dogs who are suffering in the war zone by supporting an organization called Operation Baghdad Pups. Millions of dogs are suffering and dying in our shelters here in the U.S. and it’s hard to imagine that circumstances could be any worse for dogs in Iraq and Afghanistan, but they are. Many of the local dogs and cats there are starving because culturally, they are not loved as pets and are considered dirty and a nuisance. “Mostly, the people over there don’t have the compassion for animals that we do,” Bonnie-Jill says. “Little boys would be throwing rocks at dogs. ‘Dogs are monsters,’ a little boy told me. We’ll stop for a starving dog and give him food but they [local people] want the worst for the dog. What’s horrible is that the animals are not being spayed or neutered, so there are tons of them. That’s why it’s so great when these dogs get to come here to America,” continues Bonnie-Jill. “They’re in heaven. They’re used to fending for themselves and now they’ve got a warm bed and a soldier who loves them.” Bonnie-Jill is about to unveil her third PETA ad campaign. This one is to educate people on adopting a vegetarian lifestyle. “It’s a healthier lifestyle,” Bonnie-Jill says. “I’ve been a vegetarian for eight years and I’ve never eaten beef or pork because I was raised with cows and pigs, so they were
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 21
my pets. People don’t realize it—It’s like eating your dog to me.” Bonnie-Jill’s three dogs aren’t impressed with all of her achievements—they know her as the person who saved their lives. Game enough to kick off her high heels, Bonnie-Jill put in long hours assisting a difficult and heart-wrenching rescue we worked on together last spring. Over sixty Miniature Pinschers were saved from a horrific puppy mill in Riverside, California, and she volunteered, doing intake and triage at the hospital. These breeding dogs had been exposed to brutal conditions and Bonnie-Jill fostered ten of the abused Min Pins while they waited to be adopted. She fell in love with one and her mom took in another. Bonnie-Jill named her rescued Min Pin Norma-Jean (after Marilyn Monroe) and has been helping her adjust. Though Norma-Jean is still afraid of men, she is gaining confidence and has even begun to play with Bonnie-Jill’s two other rescued dogs. Wilt Chamberlain, who is named after the famously lusty basketball player (he’s fixed), is a little Pug and French Bulldog mix who had been red-listed at the Downey shelter. “He has the cutest little smushed face. I call him Smushy,” says Bonnie-Jill. Diamond Chanel is a Chihuahua and Boston Terrier mix that Bonnie-Jill rescued from a shelter in Los Angeles. “She’s the love of my life and she’s taken over my personality,” says Bonnie-Jill, laughing. “When we’re in the car and I get road rage, she gets road rage too! She barks and growls when I’m getting mad.” “You know how they say diamonds are a girl’s best friend?” asks Bonnie Jill, “Well, my dog Diamond is my best friend.” If Diamond could talk, she’d tell us that BonnieJill is a gem.
For more information about Bonnie-Jill or the programs she supports: www.Bonnie-Jill.com www.baghdadpups.com www.peta.org www.sweetheartsforsoldiers.com www.woundedwarriorproject.org www.houndsandheroes.com
22 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Introducing the
K9000 Dog Wash The Revolutionary Way to Wash and Dry Your Dog!
Easy and enjoyable experience for you, your family and especially your dog! The K9000 coin/bill/credit card operated dog wash works independently 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Great investment opportunity. High ROI with little overhead and very low maintenance. Immediately increase revenue and client traffic! Ideal for pet stores, vets, groomers, day care, car washes, gas stations, apartments/condos, hotels, parks, RV parks and more!
Coming Soon To Your Town! For all K9000 locations, visit K9000dogwash.com
K9000dogwash.com
Made in the
U.S.A.
888-2PET-USA or info@K9000dogwash.com
CANINE COOKING Deb Dempsey! with
All photos by Heather Green
Deb, co-owner of Mouthful’s Pet Boutique in Denver and a pet nutrition expert, says it’s easy to cook for your dog and proves it by sharing mouthwatering recipes for wholesome, nutritious meals that add a little variety to Fido’s dinner! Your dog doesn’t want to eat the same, boring kibble every day, so what better way to enjoy a Saturday afternoon than hanging out with your girlfriends, opening a bottle of wine with cheese and crackers, and then spending a few hours cooking, drinking, and gossiping!
foods and we shouldn’t share them with our dogs. True enough. But shouldn’t our dogs be able to eat a wide variety of real, unprocessed foods? Absolutely! Just keep in mind that you’ll need to cut back on the amount of dry kibble you feed when you add these “toppers” at feeding time.
The following recipes are designed to add real food and moisture to high-quality, dry dog food. For years we’ve been told by the big dog food companies and many in the veterinary community that we should never feed table scraps to our dogs. But have you ever wondered why?
*Note: I prefer to use humanely-raised, pastured meats and organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible.
Perhaps they are worried that we’re eating too many processed
24 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
All recipes were approved by Dr. Angela Krause, an integrative veterinarian with Belleview Animal Clinic in Englewood, CO (www.belleviewanimalclinic.com).
CANINE COOKING
CHICKEN STIR FRY 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast meat, thinly sliced (diced for small dogs) 1 red bell pepper, sliced (diced for small dogs) 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced (diced for small dogs) 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (diced for small dogs) 2 small zucchini, thinly sliced (diced for small dogs) 1 cup green beans, roughly chopped (diced for small dogs) 1 cup mushrooms, sliced 1 Tbsp coconut oil Heat coconut oil in skillet over medium/high heat. Stir fry chicken until cooked through. Add remainder of vegetables and stir fry until gently cooked yet still slightly crisp. Cool slightly before serving over the top of a high-quality kibble. Leftovers should be used within 3-4 days.
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 25
CANINE COOKING
ROAST SALMON & VEGGIES 1 lb wild-caught salmon filet (skin-on) 1 cup organic butternut squash, peeled and cubed (finely diced for small dogs) 1 cup organic carrots, peeled and cubed (finely diced for small dogs) 1 small celery root, peeled and cubed (finely diced for small dogs) 1 Tbsp coconut oil, melted and divided in half 1 large handful fresh organic spinach leaves ½ cup nutritious chicken broth or water Preheat oven to 375 Degrees. Toss squash, carrots and celery root with ½ of coconut oil. Spread out on ½ of a large baking pan. Coat salmon filet with remainder of coconut oil and place skin side down on other half of pan. Roast salmon and vegetables 20-30 minutes until fish is flaky and vegetables are tender. Just before serving, steam spinach leaves in chicken broth or water for 2-3 minutes. Cool slightly before layering steamed spinach on high-quality kibble and topping with flaked salmon, chopped salmon skin and vegetables. Leftovers should be used within 2 days.
26 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
CANINE COOKING
PUPPY POT ROAST 4-5 lb grass-fed beef rump roast (a great use for inexpensive cuts of meat. Substitute brisket or chuck if you’d like.) 3 scrubbed organic carrots, diced 6 small organic new potatoes, skin on, diced 2 large organic tomatoes, diced 2 cups nutritious chicken broth or water Combine in a crock-pot and cook on low 8 hours or until meat is falling apart. Remove meat from pot and coarsely chop for large dogs, finely mince for smaller dogs. Return to pot and stir. Cool slightly before serving over the top of a high-quality kibble. Leftovers should be used within 3-4 days.
28 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
CANINE COOKING
CHICKEN & VEGGIE STEW 2 lbs dark chicken meat, cut into bite-sized pieces or ground for small dogs (include organ meat if available) 1 Tbsp. Coconut Oil 3 peeled organic carrots, diced (shredded for small dogs) 2 small, organic zucchinis, diced (shredded for small dogs) 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (finely diced for small dogs) 1 Cup fresh or frozen organic peas 1 Cup fresh or frozen organic green beans, finely chopped 2-4 cups nutritious chicken broth Melt coconut oil over medium heat in a large saucepan. Add chicken meat and cook until meat changes color. Add vegetables and stir. Add 2-4 cups of nutritious chicken broth, depending on how moist your dog likes his stew. Cover and cook 5-10 minutes, slightly steaming the vegetables and incorporating all the flavors. Cool slightly before serving over the top of a high-quality kibble. The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 29
MEATS
ORGANIC FRUITS
HEALTHY 30 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
NUTRITIOU
VEGGIES
CANINE COOKING
CANINE COOKING
VEGETARIAN BREAKFAST TOPPER 1 organic apple, diced 1 organic banana, sliced 1 cup organic blueberries and/or strawberries, chopped 1 tsp fresh lemon juice ½ cup cottage cheese 1 hard-boiled egg, diced Mix all ingredients together and serve over the top of high-quality kibble for breakfast. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
32 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
CANINE COOKING
NUTRITIOUS CHICKEN BROTH This chicken broth is both nutritious and delicious! Pour a generous amount over kibble to moisten your dog’s meal, helping the food move through the digestive track faster and more efficiently. Note: Onions are noticeably absent from the recipe as they can be extremely toxic to pets. 2-3 lbs cooked chicken bones (save them from your dinner plate in the freezer until you’ve got enough for the recipe or purchase inexpensive chicken backs and roast in the oven before using, for intensified flavor) 3 scrubbed organic carrots, coarsely chopped 3 stalks organic celery, coarsely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced Generous handful fresh parsley, chopped ½ tsp. sea salt 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar 3 quarts water Bring chicken and water to a boil in a large stockpot with tight-fitting lid. Skim foam that rises to the top and reduce heat to med-low. Smash bones with a wooden spoon, which will allow more nutrients to leach out into broth. Add remainder of ingredients, cover and simmer for a minimum of 3 hours. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Strain broth and store in refrigerator. Use or freeze within 1 week. The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 33
CANINE COOKING Nutritious “kibble” dog food from Canidae, Evangers, Mulligan Stew and Solid Gold (pictured below) can be found at your local, specialty pet boutique! Splurge on the finest dog food and treats for your best friend, he deserves it!
CANIDAE www.canidae.com
MULLIGAN STEW www.mulliganstewpetfood.com
EVANGERS DOG FOOD www.evangersdogfood.com
SOLID GOLD www.solidgoldhealth.com
34 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
The Ultimate Climate Control Canine Coat!
Zentek® uses cutting edge technology to keep
your dog from overheating or getting too cold. The first real temperature controling sport wear for dogs. The coats are rainproof, lightweight, and comfortable for any activity!
We think nothing is too good for your dog. No longer do you need to soak a coat in water and drench your pup to keep him cool!! Now Zentek ® Clothing offers owners a new solution! The science does the work, not you or your pup! ZentekClothing.com
info@zentekclothing.com
1-206-784-5038
The Ultimate Climate
x a l e R
Zentek ® Clothing introduces mats lined with Compfortemp Material providing a safe temperature regulating bed. Perfect for travel & shows! Great for hot days, great for older dogs, great for any dog!
Control Canine Mat!
on a New Zentek ® Mat! Featuring a surface that does not collect your dogs’ fur. Lightweight, yet a cooling pad in the summer. In the winter, warms your dog,but repels mud and water.
www.ZentekClothing.com
NO TIME TO BAKE?
Then try these delicious, wholesome treats for DOGS! TERRABONE & REAL FOOD TOPPERS www.completenaturalnutrition.com
JUST CHICKEN www.mouthfuls.net
MULLIGAN STEW www.mulliganstewpetfood.com
NATURE’S BEST RAWHIDE www.naturesbestrawhide.com
36 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
SOLID GOLD www.solidgoldhealth.com
PETKIND www.petkind.com
CANIDAE www.canidae.com
BRAVO BONUS BITES www.bravorawdiet.com
EVANGERS www.evangersdogfood.com
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 37
RAW MEATY BONES are an Integral Part of a Healthy,
Raw Food Diet
By Lorileigh Moreland
I
have been in the pet industry for 32 years, and I've studied pet nutrition extensively while keeping abreast of all ingredients found in pet food. I have been feeding my dogs a raw diet for eight years now. First, let me make something perfectly clear. Dogs are carnivores, taxonomically and anatomically. Taxonomically, the Smithsonian Institution and the American Society of Mammalogists in the Mammal Species of the World, A Taxonomical and Geographic Reference dogs were
reclassified as a subspecies of wolf (Canis lupus familiaris). Robert K. Wayne, Ph.D. (1993), a canine evolutionary biologist at UCLA, asserted that dogs are a diverse group of modified wolves: “Dogs are gray wolves, despite their diversity in size and proportion.” Anatomically, dogs possess the obvious characteristics of a carnivore. Their eyes are positioned at the front of their head, looking forward. They have large nasal passages. They have strong, muscular jaws with prominent carnassial and
38 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
canine teeth. Their digestive system contains a large, highly acidic stomach and relatively short intestinal tract and bowel. They also have a small pancreas. This design allows them to rip and crush their prey, and eat large amounts of food and bone in a short amount of time; it also protects them from bacteria, which lets them eat rotting carcasses when necessary. Despite all of this scientific evidence, vets still insist that dogs are omnivores and must be fed an over-processed, cereal-based, chemically-infused diet
of kibble. They also believe that raw diets have been proven a dangerous fad. What proof of danger? And, how can a diet that is thousands, maybe even millions, of years old be a fad? (Fad: a practice or interest followed for a time with exaggerated zeal.) With all this information in mind, I have chosen to feed my own dogs an archetypal, natural, and varied diet of carcass pieces, including bones, organs, and green tripe. (I really ought to be better about the tripe, but it reeks!) This diet is referred to as raw meaty bones, prey-model, and, sometimes, frankenprey. Let me embark on the what, how, and when of why I feed my canine furkids an archetypal canid diet. WHY? As I established in advance, all dogs’ anatomy is adapted to assimilate a raw meat diet, from the smallest Chihuahua to the largest Mastiff. Raw, whole carcasses are best suited for our dogs but are often unrealistic in modern society. (Can you imagine your neighbor’s reaction to a whole cow in your yard being dismembered by your dog?) Domestication has not changed dogs' digestive system enough to change their nutritional needs. Those of us who feed raw, prey-model diets report white teeth, shiny coats, less shedding, reduced allergy symptoms, vanishing doggy odor, smaller stools, improved disposition, easing of arthritis symptoms, a healthier GI tract, and maintaining ideal weights. I know these sound like superficial changes, but they are consequential. White teeth are due to the enzymes in raw meat. They act as toothpaste, while the scraping action of bones act as a tooth brush. Shiny coats and less shedding are the result of animal fats and proteins in the right forms and ratios to prevent toxins from having to be excreted through the
skin. Allergies clear because no grains are present. Smaller stools are due to the bioavailability of the food. Their bodies are using it instead of excreting undigested/unusable carbohydrates. Dispositions improve because sugars and synthetic chemicals are no longer a part of their diet. Arthritis lessens when the immune system isn’t taxed with inappropriate foods. The GI tract won’t have to work as hard on digestion because it gets the necessary enzymes to complete the digestion process. Weight is naturally maintained when there are no carbohydrates to store, and the ripping and tearing of raw carcass pieces give the stomach time to prepare for the arrival of food by increasing its acidity level. So, all the superficial appearances have real health value to go along with them. WHAT? Carcass pieces, organs, bones, and tripe! Remember, you need to keep in mind your dog's size and appetite, but here are some of the crazy things I feed my Newfs:
than none. Ground meat and bone are not natural-state foods for dogs, and there is not enough time for the stomach acid to prepare for the food. Many, if not most, pre-made raw diets are based on the misconception that dogs are omnivores. Therefore, they add fruits, vegetables, and worse, some add grain. Others add unnecessary synthetic vitamins, minerals and trace elements. And some pasteurize their foods to kill bacteria, which also kills enzymes! (The few times that I feed a pre-made raw, it is always a ground meat, organ, and bone diet) HOW? Raw prey-model feeding doesn’t require recipes or much preparation. From the creature of your choice, take a hunk of meaty bone (sized appropriate for your dog) and hand it to him. You can feed meaty bones as a stand-alone meal or with a side of organ. I follow the 80/10/10 model: 80% muscle meat,
Beef, Lamb or Pork: ribs, shanks, shoulders, necks, oxtails, feet, brisket, hocks, heart, tongue, kidney, liver, sweetbreads, and green tripe. Poultry (Chicken, turkey, duck): eggs, necks, backs, bonein breasts,legs, wings, liver, hearts, gizzard, and, if your dog is large enough, you can simply half or quarter the chicken! Big game (buffalo, venison, elk, antelope): ribs, necks, liver, tongue, and green tripe. Whole: rabbit, quail, herring, mackerel, sardine, tilapia, and trout. Personally, I rarely feed pre-made raw diets, although any raw is better
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 39
RAW MEATY BONES are an Integral Part of a Healthy Raw Food Diet
10 percent organs and 10 percent bone. And I try to feed fresh raw green tripe as a standard, although I need to add more of that. As for how much, the general guideline is 2 to 4 percent of your dog's ideal body weight. I recommend starting at 2 percent for most dogs, 3 percent for puppies. Remember, these are guidelines, not hard-and-fast rules. Differences in age and activity level vary, sometimes drastically. Even seasons and weather can affect how much dogs eat. Feel your dog's ribs, watch the waist: If he's gaining or losing weight, adjust the food accordingly. Sometimes, this can vary day to day. If you have made the commitment to raw feeding, it is best to fast your dog for 24 hours, then dive right in! However, this is not for everyone. Some people want to start slowly. You can do this by using raw as treats. Some people
will feed both raw and kibble. If you must do that, don’t feed the kibble and raw simultaneously. Do separate meals, feeding the kibble when there will be at least 8 hours before feeding raw. WHEN? Like most raw feeders, I base how often I feed according to my dogs needs and adjust as necessary. I feed once a day. If we are working out, with my dogs performing water rescue work and pulling carts through a course, they will eat twice a day, with about a 30 percent increase in food. So here are some starting guidelines. For puppies up to three months of age, feed four times a day until they consistently refuse a meal. Then go to three times a day for puppies up to six months of age. Again, when pups begin to consistently refuse a meal, go to feeding two times a day. Dogs over six months of age can eat twice a day. During periods of rapid
growth, I recommend staying at twice a day, but cutting the food back if they aren’t. Follow your dogs' lead - they will let you know, so pay attention! Again, like a lot of prey-model feeders, I fast my dogs. The night before a fast, I will give them 30 percent more food, so I take advantage of larger meaty bones. The following day, I will just be sure that there is plenty of filtered water available. This cleanses the GI tract and gives it a rest. Feeding raw prey-model diets is getting back to nature, back to basics. This is the most ideal way to feed our domestic wolves. The cooked, processed convenience dog foods we began to feed in the fifties cannot provide the nutrition our dogs need. But now, you know that there is a healthful, easy, and safe alternative for feeding your dogs.
For more information: Lorileigh Moreland, Owner Pet Empawrium & Spaw 12393 W. 64th Ave Arvada, CO 80004 (303) 467-7777 www.petempawrium.com email: magic@petempawrium.com
40 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
NO TIME TO BAKE?
Then add a little variety to your dog’s kibble with some yummy canned dog food!
EVANGERS DOG FOOD www.evangersdogfood.com
CANIDAE www.canidae.com
TRIPETT www.tripett.com
MULLIGAN STEW www.mulliganstewpetfood.com
PETKIND www.petkind.com
42 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
If you are interested in feeding your dog a raw food diet, try Bravo Raw Diet. www.bravorawdiet.com
Be a Responsible Parent and DO NOT Go Out and Buy Your Child a GREAT DANE… (after they watch the movie, MARMADUKE)! By Jamie M Downey, Publisher The American Dog Magazine
Let me say it one more time: DON’T BUY YOUR KID A DOG—NO MATTER WHAT BREED—AFTER THEY WATCH A MOVIE ABOUT A DOG
Photo by Heather Green
20th Century Fox productions presents Marmaduke, which hits theaters on June 4th, 2010. Marmaduke is making his film debut, crossing over from the newspaper comic strip that was first drawn by Brad Anderson in 1954 and is still seen today in your Sunday newspaper. As with most movies that feature a real dog as the star, kids will be begging their parents to buy them this "dog of the month."
adorable Chihuahuas sitting on death row in animal shelters all over the country because of the movie Beverly Hills Chihuahua. Backyard breeders and puppy mill operators churned out puppies like cars in a factory to supply puppies to demanding families. And now, sadly, the magic has worn off of these pint-sized dogs, and they too are discarded like trash at local animal shelters, to await their death.
When 101 Dalmatians and then 102 Dalmatians hit theaters, there was a buying frenzy fueled by irresponsible parents who bought these spotted puppies by the tens of thousands for their kids. After the novelty wore off and the dogs didn’t live up to the owners' expectations, or they were too destructive and their care required too much time and money, these dogs were dumped at the pound in droves.
Marley and Me, the movie featuring an adorable Labrador getting into all kinds of trouble, caused a surge in parents buying these dogs because their kids had watched the movie and wanted one of their own. But Labs are a ton of work! They need lots of exercise; they like to dig, jump fences, and eat furniture. And now, guess what breed there is a surplus of at your local animal shelter? Yup, labs! These poor dogs have been discarded at pounds all over the country
Right now, there are many thousands of
44 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
because irresponsible parents didn’t do their homework to see how much commitment is required when you get a dog. Let me say it one more time: DON’T BUY YOUR KID A DOG—NO MATTER WHAT BREED—AFTER THEY WATCH A MOVIE ABOUT A DOG Great Danes can weigh up to 170 pounds or more. They eat a lot of food, take up a lot of space, make giant-size poops, and require lots of attention and love. If you are still seriously considering a Dane, then please check with your local animal shelter or Great Dane Rescue and adopt one. Do your research on this breed to see if this type of dog will fit into your lifestyle. A dog is a commitment for life, and it’s your responsibility to take care of the dog and make him a member of the family for his entire life.
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 45
Chester’s TOP 10 “To Do” List to
jump start your
Summer!
Chester’s Rule: Run faster, play harder, sleep longer!
C
hester wants you to live life to the fullest and have fun this summer! Slow down, smell the roses and enjoy the day. Don’t waste time and live in the moment. Have a purpose in life, and make happiness a priority for you and your family. Put down your crackberry, unplug all electronic devices, and revel in some good oldfashioned conversation with family and friends. This is going to be your summer to spend quality time with your best buddy (who has four legs) and make new friends along the way! What are you waiting for? Make
plans now to indulge yourself and your dog with Chester’s top 10 activities for living large and having fun!
#1 Road Trip!
“Just do it!” 46 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Chester’s Top 10!
#2 Relax with a
full day at the Spa! “Please, please!”
#3 Chill Out
Weekend in a Cabin! “yippee!”
#4
Spend a Fabulous Day Hiking! “Work it baby!” The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 47
Chester’s Top 10!
#5
Go Boating on a Lake! “I love water!”
#6
Gotta Go Camping in a Tent! “Ruff it!”
#7
Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch! “Yummy!”
48 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Chester’s Top 10!
#8
Hang Ten at the Beach and Swim! “Look at me!”
#9
Don’t forget the old-fashioned BBQ! “I want more!”
#10
Have Ice Cream for Dessert! “Soooo good!”
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 49
Doggie Road Trip DOG + ROAD TRIP = FUN TIMES! This summer get out of your backyard and take a refreshing road trip with Fido!
VIRGINIA
CALIFORNIA rn w ww if o .thecal
Pack your bag, grab your gear and hit the highway this summer for some great adventures in Colorado, Texas, California, Arizona or Virginia! These dogfriendly destinations offer a fabulous selection of hiking trails, lakes and streams to splash in, or off-road trips that Fido will love exploring. Make the time to enjoy a special summer getaway and don’t put off taking that family vacation. Have you made reservations yet?
ia d
gi vir www.the
.com
TEXAS g. co m
g.com
sd w.thetexa
o
om ariz c . o nad o g
COLORADO
50 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
colo
w
.th e
.th e
ww
o c . ra d o d o g
ARIZONA
ww
m
ni ad o
og
w w w
SAVE A LIFE
ADOPT A PIT BULL! From Your Local Shelter or Rescue Group
MILLIONS of Pitties have been killed in shelters due to bad owners, backyard breeders, negative press, and shameful BSL laws that are enacted in over 500 cities nationwide. These Pitties deserve a chance and there are thousands waiting right now for a forever home. Please consider adopting a beautiful Pit Bull from your local shelter or rescue group. Like all dogs, they just want a family to love!
Pit Bulls Rock! • • • • •
Affectionate • Athletic • Courageous • Energetic Friendly • Humorous • Intelligent • Loyal Loving • Noble • Playful • Strong Please go to The American Dog Magazine ( www.theamericandogmag.com) and click on the “Fight Breed Specific Legislation” tab for a list of Pit Bull rescue groups nationwide.
FIGHT
BREED DISCRIMINATION All or Nothing Pit Bull Rescue
www.atlantapitbullrescue.com
Animal Farm Foundation
www.animalfarmfoundation.org
Bad Rap
www.badrap.org
Bama Bully Rescue
www.bamabully.org
Bless the Bullys
www.blessthebullys.com
Bull 911
www.bull911.com
Bully Wag
www.bullywag.org
Chicagoland Bully Breed Rescue
www.chicagolandbullybreedrescue.org
Dead Dog Walking
www.deaddogwalkingpitbullrescue.org
Defending Dog
www.defendingdog.com
Denver Kills Dogs
www.denverkillsdogs.com
For Pits Sake
www.forpitssake.org
Hug A Bull
www.hugabull.com
Karma Rescue
www.karmarescue.org
Love A Bull Rescue
www.loveabullrescue.com
Mariah's Promise
www.mariahspromise.com
Mid-America Bully Breed Rescue
www.kspitbullrescue.com
Mike's Dog House
www.mikesdoghouse.org
Missouri Pit Bull Rescue
www.mprgroup.net
Natl Canine Research Council
www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com
Our Pack
www.ourpack.org
Out Of The Pits
www.outofthepits.org
Paw Printz Pit Bull Rescue
www.pawprintzpitrescue.tripod.com
Pawsitively Pit Bull
www.pawsitivelypitbull.org
Pit Bull Rescue Central
www.pbrc.net
Pit Bull Lovers
www.pitbulllovers.com
Pit Bull Rescue San Diego
www.pitbullrescuesandiego.com
Pit Stop Rescue
www.pitstoprescue.org
Pittie Love Rescue
www.pittieloverescue.com
Roverlution
www.roverlution.org
Save A Bull Rescue
www.saveabull.com
Save The Pit Bulls
www.savethepitbulls.8m.com
Stop BSL
www.stopbsl.com
Understand A Bull
www.understand-a-bull.com
Villalobos Rescue Center
www.vrcpitbull.com
Wiggle Butts Bully Rescue
www.wigglebuttsbullyrescue.org The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 53
STOP IT!
Protect the Pitties from the BSL Laws that are Killing Them
P
The American Dog reports
rejudice, hatred, racism, apartheid, bigotry, segregation, and breed discrimination all describe the racial profiling of Pit Bulls in this country. The sensational media reports of Pit Bulls attacking children, adults, and other dogs create mass hysteria and fear of this breed, when truth be told the Pit Bull is actually a great family dog that loves children. Since this athletic, loyal breed is the chosen dog of gang bangers, drug dealers, and criminals, a once highly respected dog has now taken a bad rap along with those unsavory members of our society.
Because of the frenzied panic incited by the media towards this breed, or any dog mixed with Pit Bull, there are over 500 U.S. cities that have now enacted breed-specific legislation (BSL) against Pit Bulls. Colorado is one of the worst states, with five cities (Denver, Aurora, Castle Rock, Fort Lupton, and Commerce City) banning all Pit Bulls outright. Iowa has allowed eleven of its
It is not fair to label one breed as dangerous when all dogs bite, not just Pit Bulls, and it doesn’t matter how small or how big a dog is, they all bite, period. In fact, there are far more greater hazards to be afraid of. Dr. Paula Terifaj, who owns a Pittie, says, “ I would feel safe if you could keep drunk drivers off the streets, stop people from running red lights, and ticket all drivers that can’t remember we have speed limits. These irresponsible people put my life at risk every day. I would also feel a lot safer if gang bangers did not have guns and terrorists did not hate Americans," she continues. "Let’s take away their guns, bombs, and secret weapons. Just think how many thousands of innocent lives we could save! And while we are making our neighborhoods safe again, could you please hunt down and lock up all the pedophiles, rapists, and serial killers. Who needs these human predators lurking around? Fatal dog attacks are rare. More people have been struck and killed by lightning.”
54 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
cities to ban the breed, but Ohio and Kansas are tied for the absolute worst, with Ohio slaughtering pits in 24 of its cities and Kansas doing the same in 25 of its cities. It's nothing short of an abomination. Denver attorney Gabriela Sandoval explains, “I think it’s safe to say that you already know that BSL is ineffective in
It is not fair to label one breed as dangerous when all dogs bite, not just Pit Bulls, and it doesn’t matter how small or how big a dog is, they all bite, period.
forced abandonment and unnecessary killing of non-aggressive dogs; a practice which shows complete disregard for the respected human-canine bond and denigrates the status of cherished animal companions to the level of pests in need of extermination.” Don’t let your city be next. Find out if your city council members are targeting Pit Bulls and get involved. Attend city council meetings if BSL is being considered. Get BSL alerts in your city and join the statewide database (www. understand-a-bull.com/BSLcontacts. htm). Promote responsible dog ownership. You can also go to page 53 in this issue and join or support one of the many Pit Bull advocacy groups listed.
carrying out the purpose for which these laws are enacted. BSL is impulsive and shortsighted. It provides a false sense of security to those who fail to understand or recognize the impact these laws have on well-behaved dogs (incarceration, physical and psychological trauma, exile, death) and responsible dog guardians (unjust punishment, forceful relinquishment of companion, physical or psychological trauma). BSL also fails to address the danger that an untrained or improperly trained dog—of any breed—may present to others.” Brent Toellner, who runs the KC Dog Blog, has a lot to say about the web site www.dogsbite.org. This site sensationalizes all the tabloid journalism regarding dog bites and tries to encourage BSL in every city. Make sure to read Brent’s blog dated March 27, 2010: (http://www.btoellner.
typepad.com/kcdogblog/2010/03/thetruth-behind-dogsbiteorg.html). Another group advocating for Pit Bulls and trying to save America’s dog is Roverlution (www.roverlution.org), which tells us they are “Fighting for your freedom to keep your dog.” If you visit Roverlution's Web site you’ll learn more about this excellent group that “support[s] the right of dog owners to provide homes for their dogs without fear of discrimination or reprisal." According to Roverlution, "BSL which specifically is related to breed-specific legislation by any and all government entities, breedspecific policies by insurance companies, breed-specific policies by homeowners’ associations, and breed-specific policies made by privately held or publicly held companies.” The site goes on to report that “these discriminatory laws and practices have tragically resulted in the
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 55
We proudly support rescues and respectfully ask, if you can, to lend them a hand too!
DISASTER RESPONSE
DOGS SAVING LIVES IN
HAITI
Photo by Stumberg - U.S. Navy, courtesy of SDF.
By Carole Raphaelle Davis
The Earthquake
The Team and their dogs
On January 12, a catastrophic earthquake struck Haiti, killing 230,000 people. Hours later, as innumerable victims lay trapped inside collapsed buildings, alive and crying out for help, a team of American “first responders” were loading up onto a C-17 military aircraft at March Air Force Base in Riverside, California. They were flying to Port-Au-Prince to rescue people who were buried alive in the wreckage. They took enough equipment and supplies with them to be fully self-sustainable in a disaster zone for 14 days.
These highly skilled search dogs are the pride of the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF), a non-profit organization based in Ojai, California. The foundation’s mission is to strengthen disaster response by recruiting rescued dogs and partnering them with firefighters and other first responders to find people buried alive in the wreckage of disasters. Not only does SDF assist in rescuing humans; they rescue dogs as well. The organization rescues dogs from euthanasia in the shelter system and trains them to rescue people by using the dogs’ acute sense of smell to detect live victims. SDF ensures lifetime care for every dog in its program. “Once rescued,” says Wilma Melville, founder of SDF, “these dogs never need to be rescued again.”
After an earthquake, there are just a few days to pull people out of the rubble before they die of injuries and dehydration. Certain members of this highly trained disaster response team have extraordinary life-saving skills and innate abilities that exceed those of humans —and these heroes are dogs.
58 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
The earthquake destroyed Haiti's already fragile infrastructure,
Photo by Marco Dormino, courtesy of SDF.
leaving its people with no Internet or phone service. As Debra Tosch, executive director of SDF, waited anxiously for news, she sent me one of the very first text messages from her team. In few words, it showed how strenuously the dogs worked and how heart-wrenching the conditions were for their handlers: “Hunter has searched hard today, last building lots of dead. He kept searching, can't stop that dog. Stepping over bodies, crawling as far as 40 feet under floors, 18 inches apart. He is amazing. We are giving the dogs IV fluids to prevent dehydration. Very hot today.” I spoke with first responder Jasmine Segura about her rescue mission in Haiti and her SDF dog, Cadillac. “Our team rescued nine people and that was amazing,” she told me. “I feel a sense of accomplishment…but all the training we do could never compare to Haiti.” Jasmine recounted how Cadillac had assisted in a “live find” by alerting her team to a person trapped underneath a collapsed building. “I was in the hole,” Jasmine explained, “and when we have a confirmed victim, we have to start digging to get to them using power tools—moving debris and breaking rocks. We had power tools to move a bunch of rebar, and then we were able to communicate with this woman who was in a void space within a pancake structure. We dropped water through a hole three feet deep on the sixth day after the earthquake. She was saved with her sister. She was able to stick her hand through and then she stuck her whole face through and gave us gave us this great smile.” The elation Jasmine felt at being able to pull the woman out
alive contrasted with the horror all around her, including piles of cadavers, anguished people, and starving, stray animals. “The saddest thing was having this little girl, around eight years old, asking for water,” said Jasmine. “I couldn’t give it to her because it would create a mob scene. ” I asked Jasmine how they kept the dogs hydrated while they were working in front of crowds of people who had not had any water in days. “We had to go in spots where we could drink, hiding,” said Jasmine. “Remembering those kids who needed water... I’ll never get those images out of my mind.” Jasmine had to keep Cadillac from getting distracted and focus the dog's concentration on the job of finding people alive. “We had one woman who was mourning very loudly and Cadillac was twisting his head,” she recalled. “I had to pull out peanut butter and 'unlock' him from that—just to get his mind off the crying.” Captain Ron Horetski of the L.A. County Fire Department, brought Pearl, his black lab. “I feel good about what the task force did down there,” Ron told me. Proud of the work Pearl did in Haiti, Ron described their intense working relationship: “I put her through direction control and she was flawless,” he said. “We’re great together. Down in Haiti, she got in areas where I never could imagine her going—confined spaces, walking through bodily fluids to finish a search through a building. She got in there and I lost sight of her. I’m six-footsix and I couldn’t get in there. When there’s no alert, she sits next to me and that means we gotta continue on.” I asked Ron how he kept Pearl safe while working in danger of severe aftershocks shifting the buildings. “I’m always concerned about her,” he said. “She did cut her foot, but the way the dog walks so fast over material, even if they step
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 59
on glass they’re still gonna walk—she’s my partner. It’s my decision as a dog handler, but then again we have a job to do and that job is finding life.” In a difficult team effort, the search dogs found life under a collapsed building—three little girls. “Of the three girls, tragically, one of them died before she could get out,” lamented Deborah Tosch of SDF. “Some of these victims are 40 feet down, under heavy slabs of concrete. It was a fiveminute search for Hunter (the search dog) and then a six-hour operation for the task force to save the person. The dogs help find them, but [rescuing them] takes the whole team.”
The right dog + the right handler + training = “live finds” Wilma Melville described how SDF dogs think, train and work, hunting for live human scent: “The handler uses good judgment and directional control with sound and arm signals. [The dogs] are trained to go back or forward with arm signals. They’re having the greatest time of their life; it’s what they love to do. That’s the beauty of the dog. The handler is trained, the dog is connected to the handler, and the handler must be upbeat in order for the dog to do his job. The whole world could be collapsing, but the handler must remain cheerful with his body and his voice. A handler has to separate from it. He has to say to the dog, ‘Come on, we’re going to have a good time here!’ ” Says Jasmine Segura of her dog Cadillac, “Even though he doesn’t get it like a human, he has the confidence and the training. He would go anywhere I ask him to. We’re on a three-story top on a catwalk…I’m the thinker for that dog. Sometimes the risk is too much. When I can’t see, I have to rely on his instincts. But these dogs will do everything we ask them to do. They feel comfortable ranging out into tunnels on their own. We let their noses work, and we don’t micromanage them on the pile. They're here because we can’t see what we’re looking for.”
How does a search dog distinguish between a live person and a dead body? “With advanced training,” says Wilma Melville, “we begin to show the dog other scents, like human tissue. We use blood, hair, and, if we can, we get [human] placenta.” Gruesome as it sounds, the Search Dog Foundation needs more than just monetary donations; they need body parts. Wilma told me that when she had a hip replacement, she insisted that the doctor give her a portion of the hip: “Come on! It’s just a bone! It’s in a jar in a bag.” She told me how difficult it is to get human parts. “It doesn’t take a whole body,” she said flatly. “Parts of bodies are just fine. We draw blood—we put it on cotton. We teach the dog not to do a bark alert at just blood. These dogs can discriminate between minute things—like an amazing nose on four legs. While we just smell stew, they smell all the different ingredients. We think we’re so damn smart and we don’t give the dog enough credit.”
60 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Haiti Search and Rescue team, courtesy of SDF.
“We need body parts,” admitted Debra Tosch. “A member of the local search and rescue had a baby and I asked for the placenta. She gave it to us. A staff member had a knee replacement, and she gave us her knee. The job of these dogs is not to alert on bodies; that’s a cadaver dog’s job.” The remarkable heart of the foundation’s work is rescuing dogs who will be trained to rescue people. “A family buys a puppy Golden [retriever] and it’s fuzzy and cute,” says Wilma Melville, explaining how SDF rescues suitable candidates for their program from the shelter system. “They love the cute ball of fur and as he grows, he becomes tremendously energetic and constantly wants to do something—he never stops bothering them. He’ll run around and pick up the socks, dig up the yard, chews on shoes ... and the dog becomes a pest. So they dump him in a shelter. We need dogs that are high-energy, with high drive and a great ability to focus. We look for athletic ability, boldness—not a little shy thing. If we have those characteristics all in the same dog, we’ll have a fine disaster search dog. It’s heartwarming to take a dog that is headed for euthanasia," she adds. "Many of them have a day before they’re euthanized. I see that as the biggest waste in our country. But we’re taking a dog that has been thrown on the trash heap, and we are productively using his best characteristics.” Tosch was moved when I told her The American Dog was interested in the story of rescued dogs rescuing people. She became genuinely emotional when she spoke to me about the adversity the SDF dogs have overcome. “The fact that we have rescued dogs rescuing humans is just so rewarding for me,” she said. “These dogs are minutes away from being euthanized, or they've been abused, and the fact that they can go out and save the same species that got them into that situation is amazing.” As Haiti rebuilds and its people recover, these canine heroes stand ready to save more lives. For more information on the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation or to donate, please visit their web site: www.searchdogfoundation.org.
TM
Made in USA
Fashion and Function For BIG Dogs Idawg apparel fits from 20 - 130 lbs
www.idawgclothing.com
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 61
Documentary Filmmaker
TOM McPHEE World Animal Awareness Society
with arrives in Haiti after the devastating earthquake. All photos courtesy of World Animal Awareness Society
Why am I here?
62 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
T
om McPhee, founder and executive director of the World Animal Awareness Society (www.wa2s.org) traveled to earthquake-ravaged Port-au-Prince, Haiti, so he could document and film the rescue and assessment work being done by major international animal rescue organizations. Tom tells us, “I have a purpose, and I believe I'm supposed to be here filming the potentially important intersections between humans and animals during this time of crisis.” Tom met up with members of ARCH (Animal Rescue Coalition Haiti) and SODOPREC@ (the Dominican Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and spent time filming the widespread devastation inflicted upon the people and animals in this crisis, which left hundreds of thousands of people and animals dead, injured, or homeless. Tom shares the following images from his journey and explains, “These photos were taken in a small neighborhood on a hill that overlooked the choked and crushed city below. This city that has a population density nearly eight times greater than London, now had its first rescuers come to the aid of the people who were living in their yards or on the street for fear of yet another aftershock. It did not matter in the least to these fine folks that the help was for their pets, they were so very glad to have any help that as soon as the ARCH team set up a portable triage station, the vet work started and our new neighbors began to stream in with their pets, primarily dogs and cats. I felt my purpose resolve at that moment.” The following images are the culmination of that day. Tom reflects back on that day and tells us, “What I saw in Haiti gave me purpose and meaning; I hope these images move you as they have moved me.”
Please visit www.WA2s.org to view the companion video to this pictorial, Why am I here? The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 63
64 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
JhdYk`ÛaflgÛJmee]j with the Original, All Style, No Stink dog collar
*Neapolitan *Black Eyed Susan
..Hand-Layered 100% Waterproof Designs ..Super Easy to Clean Oh so Lucky
*Confession
*Urban Hunter
www.dublindog.com 866.707.1231
Dog Products & Accessories - made for Real Dogs & made for Real Life
www.Dog Crate Central.com Solid Wood Dog Crate Furniture For Your Pampered Pet Available in small, medium, large and x-large Exquisite craftsmanship! Assembles in minutes Custom sizes or stains Proudly handcrafted in the USA!
8 77.38 6 .41 02
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 65
THE DOG SCENE
|
LIZ HOLZEMER
Role Reversal
T
he gut knows when life’s gone awry. I’ve been there, done that too many times. With myself, my two young kids, my dog.
Ten years ago an intuitive puppy guided and healed me during two brain surgery recoveries. That yellow lab—Koufax— was my crutch. Now it’s my turn to be his. Earlier this year, I sat in the veterinarian’s waiting room doing that agonizing thing associated with all waiting rooms—waiting for my worst fears to be confirmed. How much longer would it take for the hazy outline of each tell-tale symptom to become sharper and finally reveal itself? The long face. Significantly shed pounds. Insatiable thirst and panting. In winter? Such a sudden onset too. I lost track of how many times I swallowed my heart. Eyes welled up over and over again preparing myself for the worst-case scenario parents can’t prevent themselves from imagining. I failed at masking my emotions from the worried pair of brown eyes studying me. He knew too. The door swung open with a singular word diagnosis.
By Liz Holzemer Photo by heather green
Diabetes.
Koufax could still lead a productive life.
Come again?
First, I had to quickly master a foreign language of blood glucose curves, cataracts, fructosamine tests, hypoglycemia, insulin, ketones…
Needles? Twice a day? Prescription-only diet? Vigilant monitoring? It's manageable. So many questions. The answers are carefully explained, but I can't retain what I know I need to remember. That will come with time. Koufax is a dog whose daily practiced religion is bounding after, pouncing on, and catching air—in Shaun White-fashion— for a fuzzy neon yellow ball. Koufax doesn’t do group. It’s always been oneon-one with the Wilson. So how did an active and healthy dog contract diabetes? It’s more common than you think. On average, one in 10 dogs will develop this disease. For Koufax, it’s simply a case of bad luck. That's the thing with Koufax and me; we’ve shared a multitude of maladies: Meningioma. Epilepsy. Hypothyroidism. Lipomas. Diabetes. Thankfully, with early intervention and careful monitoring, the vet reassured me
Then I had to overcome my fear of using fine gauge needles to inject insulin into Koufax. What if I measured out the wrong dosage? Accidently jabbed him? Hurt him? How could I forgive myself? “I’m saving my firstborn's life” became my twice-daily mantra. And like clockwork, Koufax sits on cue when I take out the refrigerated glass vial of lifesaving elixir. He’s such the compliant, non-flinching patient; I can’t help but feel guilty with each prick. Is the insulin taking effect? I’m dejected on days when he takes up residence in his favored corner of the couch. Terrified when he has a rare hypoglycemic episode. Thankful when honey on hand revives him. However, I’m encouraged on days when Koufax perks up at the sight of his favorite and formerly ignored ball. I no longer see protruding ribs or empty water bowls. He’s talking again. Hind legs don’t falter when leaping on to the bed. My boy is back. The gut knows.
About the Author Liz Holzemer is the author of When Life Throws You A Brain Tumor and founder of the non-profit, Meningioma Mommas (wwwmeningiomamommas.org). For more information on Liz visit her Web site at: www. lizholzemer.com or she can be emailed at: info@lizholzemer.com.
66 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
THE DOG SCENE
|
celebrity profile
Elaine Hendrix
68 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
By Carole Raphaelle Davis photos by heather green
I
had lunch in a West Hollywood café with actress Elaine Hendrix, and I think she charmed the paint off the walls. She has a disarming way of looking at you sideways with a foxy sparkle in her eyes. She also charmed the tonguetied waiter as she ordered her vegetarian meal, and she charmed the people sitting near us, who completely ignored each other in order to listen to our conversation. Later, as we stepped out onto Santa Monica Boulevard, a bus driver was so distracted by her natural beauty that he swerved the city bus he was driving to avoid a pile-up.
“You have sheep in your house?” I asked. “No,” she answered, jokingly. “I wish I did! My ultimate goal in life? To have goats. I want that more than anything—more than world peace. My other dog is Rossmore,” Elaine adds. “I picked him up off the street—Rossmore Avenue in Hollywood. He was skinny, cut up, bleeding. He’s a Jindo. Nobody ever claimed him; he hadn’t been neutered and he'd been out on the streets a long time to be that skinny. Now he’s filled out and has a shiny coat. Rossmore will spoon with me all day long. He’s my lover-boy.”
She’s tall, she’s blonde; she has a hot body and a hot career to match. A versatile comedienne, Elaine brings some zest and fizz to the tired cliché of the bitch, creating the hilariously detestable characters we all enjoyed in Saturday Night Live’s “Superstar,” The Parent Trap, and Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion.
The last time I saw Elaine, she joined a march of 90 animal activists against puppy mills in the Westside Pavilion, a mall in the heart of Los Angeles. She was part of a landmark protest for animal rights, and walked stoically alongside her colleagues in a silent vigil for justice for breeding dogs in factories. That day, she wasn’t being funny—she was a silent star with a shining heart.
Elaine is busy with exciting new projects. “I’ve got nine movies coming out,” she says. One of them is the highly anticipated Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2, of which she states, “Of course, I'm using this as a platform for reaching out to kids about pet adoption.” She prefaced that statement with “of course” because, for those of us who know her well in the animal protection movement, it’s a given that she would utilize her fame to help homeless shelter Chihuahuas get adopted. Elaine is a member of the Board of Directors of In Defense of Animals, a national, non-profit animal welfare organization, and she's featured in the new documentary film about the fur industry, Skin Trade. You can be sure that in the side-splittingly funny scene where Elaine is choking on a lizard in The Parent Trap, the lizard who was lucky enough to be Elaine's co-star was not hurt in the making of that movie. She hails from Morristown, Tennessee, and Elaine often travels back to her home state to help animals. She told me of the Young-Williams Animal Center in Knoxville, an organization she ardently supports. “They get thirty to ninety animals every single day and they work with rescue groups to find them permanent homes,” she said. “I commend them because they are doing some amazing things with outreach programs in the community. I do public service announcements for them and help spread the word. In rural Tennessee, they kind of leave dogs outside to fend for themselves. Not to cast judgment on anyone, but the number one problem is that they [the animals] are out breeding. We don’t need that to happen if we’re euthanizing as many as six million animals every year in this country.” Of her home life, Elaine says, “Right now I have two dogs and two cats; all, of course, rescued. My original girl is a cattle dog. We just celebrated our ten-year anniversary together. She’s gorgeous, Tiloc is her name, and she’s extraordinarily smart. She knows how to herd sheep.”
For more information visit: www.knoxpets.org www.idausa.org www.elainehendrix.com
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 69
THE DOG SCENE
|
DEAR MELISSA
MELISSA BACELAR— Celebrity Pet Communicator
Talking Dogs! D Dear Melissa,
I have owned Benny three years now. He destroys things when I'm home as well as when I am not home. He is not aggressive to people or other animals normally, other than the time he got into a fight with my other dog. Actually, I am a dog trainer and am at a loss for what to do with him. The typical trainer tricks and behavior modifications don't seem to work with him. He doesn't get enough exercise right now, but when I walk him he appears anxious. His vet and I have both discussed the separation anxiety issue and quite honestly, he doesn't exhibit the typical signs of anxiety. He takes 20mg of Prozac daily which had originally helped quite a bit, but now doesn't seem to help as much. Believe me, he has come a long way in the three years I have owned him. The reason I adopted him was because the shelter had deemed him unadoptable, he had been there six months and was going to be euthanized. On my first meeting with him (we used him to train while we were going through the training program), he peed on my leg, ripped my shirt, bit my leash in half, and humped my leg! So he truly is much better behaved now. He'd had a hard life; he was left chained to a fence with his mother in a yard;
the people moved and left the dogs there. They both were confiscated by animal control after a couple of weeks. I do realize Benny is not a confident dog and have tried and tried to get him to feel secure. I am just really concerned that he is not happy, and wonder if I did him any favors "saving" him if he is truly tormented. The funny thing is that everyone who knows him adores him because he is so lovable and quirky.
A
~ Maureen
Answer: Hi Maureen. First of all, thank you for saving Benny. He is a great guy and deserves a good life. It sounds like separation anxiety, but after speaking with him, you are right! It absolutely isn't, he could care less about being alone. He does remember being left tied to the fence and it was scary. But he knows you love him and it really is more about attention than the fear of being alone. The medicine makes him foggy, which he hates, and he acts out for attention like a kindergartener. He loves you, loves your daughter, and loves people. He just is very unpredictable and certain things make him mad. His thoughts are very human.
70 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
He gets jealous, he worries, he projects what will happen in the future. He doesn't feel like he deserves happiness, and he makes up problems in his head, which is ridiculously human! You almost never see this in a dog. Dogs are usually living in the moment. Benny lives in worry. He sits and questions himself: Do they love me? Are they happy with me? Why aren't they paying attention to me? I honestly think this behavior will settle the longer you have Benny. He is just insecure! He is happy—just needy. I hope this helps? He is very smart and understands you. Praise him. The more praise he gets, the better he feels. Punishment doesn't register with him; disappointment does. When he acts out, really feel disappointed in him, ashamed of him. That will register. You have a big kid on your hands. But, it is so wonderful that you are taking the time to understand him. If he were human, he would need therapy twice a week!
~Melissa Bacelar
D
Dear Melissa, Banzai is a six-year-old, spayed, female Border Collie-Australian Cattle Dog mix. My husband and I adopted her at the age of 14 months. She was way too much dog for her former people, and we are disc dog competitors, so she now has a job that she loves and she is really good at. She is my husband's disc dog, and has traveled all over the U.S. competing; she has also been to South Korea and Canada. When we first took her in, she told me, "I'm a superstar!" She has the natural style and grace of an athlete, and the heart of a champion. Dharma is a three-year-old, spayed, female Australian Shepherd-Border Collie mix. We adopted her at the age of five months, and we were her sixth home (that we know of ). No idea why she had so many placements, unless it was because she was destined to be with me. We adopted her because my aging disc dog (Rider, a 14-year-old, neutered, male Australian Shepherd with many titles to his name) fell completely and instantly in love with her and gave her his whole heart. Dharma is also a natural athlete, with a wide repertoire of tricks, but she doesn't care for the disc. So, with that background, the situation is this: Banzai and Dharma are very close and get along really well, most of the time. They are almost identical in size, and they love to play chase and wrestle. However, once in a while, Banzai gets offended when Dharma tries to play with her. Our question is this: We would like to know why Banzai sometimes growls, snaps and fusses at Dharma when they seem to be interacting (to our human eyes) like they always do? Is there a specific trigger for Banzai that makes her react this way? Is it just her mood? How does Dharma feel about it? Is Dharma causing this, or is it dependent on Banzai's reaction in the moment? Is there some way that we can help? Can they give us a signal before the problem starts so we can intervene, distract, separate? Or should we just let them
Photo of Dharma (brown & white) and Banzai (black & white) hiking on Herman’s Gulch Trail in Colorado.
work it out and stay out of it? (That is usually what we do, unless it looks like they might come to blows, then we tell them to cut it out). ~ Christi, Chris, Banzai, Dharma (& Rider—who stays completely out of it and doesn't seem to care)
A
Answer: Hello! I want to say that your dogs are just charming, really quite intelligent, and very, very happy! They put an instant warmth inside of me and I am smiling from ear to ear. Banzai and Dharma. They are sisters and they do love each other. The spats are just that. I feel like Banzai is just super intelligent, inquisitive, and a problem solver. Dharma feels like an intelligent being but not the intellectual type. She is a little more of a clown. Banzai says when she acts funny you guys really laugh because it is unusual. But Dharma is always doing something silly. Banzai gets a little jealous and annoyed in typical sister fashion. It doesn't seem
horribly aggressive, just nasty. She is saying, "I have had enough—not now." Banzai gets sick of Dharma always being cute and funny and everyone saying how cute she is. Banzai has a more refined feel. She feels like she is the smarter one and yet Dharma gets more attention! Banzai also says she is just more of a superstar! Dharma's silly antics just get on her nerves. That is it! Just let them work it out. I don't see it being an issue. I love them both!
~Melissa Bacelar Melissa Bacelar is an animal communicator and looks forward to getting to know your animal companions. If you have a question for Melissa, please email a high-res picture of your dog and your question to her at: animalsrstars@gmail.com and put “American Dog” in the subject line. You can also visit www. melissabacelar.com
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 71
ROLE MODEL PAULA FASSEAS THE DOG SCENE
|
Founder of PAWS Chicago By Julie Bielenberg Photo courtesy of PAWS Chicago
Y
ou’re a dog lover if you read this magazine. To be truthful, you probably love animals of all kinds. If you are indeed an animal lover and respect and pray for the fair treatment of animals, then you'd better be familiar with the name Paula Fasseas. If not, then get to know her. This woman has accomplished more in the ‘dog world’ than famous colleagues such as Lassie, Snoopy, Benji, or even Beethoven. Paula began an organization called PAWS Chicago in 1997. PAWS stands for Pets Are Worth Saving. PAWS Chicago’s mission, as the city’s largest no-kill humane organization, is to implement solutions to end the killing of homeless pets. Since its inception, PAWS Chicago has had a tremendous impact on the plight of homeless dogs and cats. Now, the number of strays put to sleep in the Windy City has dropped more than 50 percent annually. That’s an incredible accomplishment. But don’t think Paula and her team are done. PAWS Chicago hopes to acquire a mobile unit for even more spays and neuters, and plans to expand its Rescue and Recovery Center in 2010. All this, while maintaining what is arguably the nation's top shelter and adoption center. The Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center (named after the dog that started PAWS, who was rescued from a beach in Greece) is as state-of-the-art as they come. From cageless adoption rooms, to advanced rehabilitation and medical services, and the most technology-
sensitive air purification systems, PAWS isn’t just on the cutting edge of animal care, it is the cutting edge. PAWS is so famous, in fact, that Oprah has her own adoption suite dedicated to her late pooch, Sophie, at the Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center. The colorful room and its adjoining corridors are filled with joyful toys, beds, and treats, and they're a home-awayfrom-home where PAWS' four-legged adoptees await their new families. This adoption center is more like a recreation center or gym for dogs, complete with rooftop deck boasting views of the Chicago skyline! Aside from finding new homes and families for more than 4,000 homeless pets in 2010, PAWS Chicago is looking out for its own as well. The non-profit was thrilled to report zero layoffs during these tough economic times, especially as a privately-funded non-profit. “We know how lucky we are,” explains Paula. “We have had amazing volunteers step up to the plate and take on crucial roles in helping us fundraise, so we can continue to save more lives. We hope for the continued good fortune and amazing volunteer force that never ceases to surprise me each and every day,” notes Paula of her beloved organization. Onto Oprah! That’s right. If you’re an avid viewer of Oprah’s show, visit her
Web site or read O, The Magazine, then you know Oprah’s two new spaniel puppies are from PAWS Chicago, along with Sadie, the Cocker Spaniel she adopted in 2008! Visit Oprah’s Web site for updates on her new babies along with photos. “She has always been a tremendous voice for homeless animals and no-kill shelters,” adds Paula. If you are lucky enough to live near Chicago, make a point of visiting PAWS this summer, for one of its sensational special events. Visit their Web site (www.pawschicago.org) for details on happy hours, dog meet-ups, charity fundraisers, and more!
For more information, or to make a donation: PAWS Chicago 1997 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago, IL 60614 (773) 935-PAWS www.pawschicago.org
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 73
Humanitarian ALEX PACHECO THE DOG SCENE
Founder of
|
600 Million Stray Dogs Need You
By Lynn Dowling
A
lex Pacheco has great news for dogs and dog lovers! A new long-lasting birth control pill will soon be a viable option for hundreds of millions of stray dogs around the world. For the first time in history, there can be a safe and affordable alternative to expensive, time-consuming sterilization surgery. This dramatic development has the potential to revolutionize the way we deal with the problem of animal overpopulation – a global problem that has continued, until now, to grow out of control. No longer will the burgeoning stray dog population continue unabated, causing needless suffering and death for hundreds of millions of dogs around the world. 600 Million Stray Dogs Need You, an IRS registered non-profit, was founded by Alex Pacheco to develop and distribute this new pill. Known to many as the co-founder of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), where he served as Chairman for 20 years before leaving in 2000, Alex has spent his entire adult life bringing people together to end animal suffering around the world. And Alex has the statistics to show why the need to move forward is urgent.
Photo courtesy of 600 Million Stray Dogs.
There are up to 600 million homeless, diseased, and starving stray dogs around the world on any given day. Over 60 nations have no laws against cruelty to animals, and brutal mass killings of 30,000 to 50,000 street dogs are taking place in cities like Athens, Beijing, and Rio. To control the stray population in many countries, dogs are beaten to death, hanged, strangled, poisoned, electrocuted, and thrown off bridges. In the U.S., an estimated six million dogs are euthanized every year for population control. Almost 2 billion U.S. tax dollars are spent every year trying to control the dog and cat overpopulation problem. Privately-funded humane societies spend hundreds of millions of dollars each year doing the same. Making matters worse, 55,000 people die each year around the world from
rabies after being bitten by rabid stray dogs. Alex’s three priorities are: (1) Raise the money needed to complete the development of the critical “super” birth-control pill; (2) Build a network to distribute the pill throughout the U.S. and 60 other countries; and (3) Provide the pills free to the poorest places in the world. Quoting Alex: “We have found a way to end this cycle of suffering without surgery, without having to capture the animals, and without euthanasia. I am certain that this new ‘super’ birth control pill for dogs will make a dramatic, historic difference for hundreds of millions of animals. The number one thing holding us back is inadequate funding. For the sake of the world’s starving stray dogs, we must finance all of this ourselves.”
If you would like to support the efforts of 600 Million Stray Dogs Need You by making a contribution, please contact: (954) 933-6066 or (305) 519-0877 1000 S. Ocean Boulevard, # 9-P, Pompano Beach, FL 33062 Email: alex@600dogs.org or maria@600dogs.org www.600MillionStrayDogsNeedYou.com A Non Profit 501(c)3 IRS Registered Charity, Federal Tax ID # 330601340
74 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
ďż˝
ďż˝
Gifts!
Pet Portraits
make wonderful
Dog Portraits Graphic Design Murals Jane Brunton, Artist www.the-art-station.com
THE DOG SCENE
|
ROLE MODEL
Gary Sherman
By Julia Szabo Photo by Nance Shutter
W
hen a dog named Buddy was found dragged to his death in the Colorado National Monument, the heinous act of cruelty disgusted American dog lovers across the country. But one American dog lover took his digsust and did something positive with it. His name is Gary Sherman, and together with five other dog lovers, he administrated the "Demand Justice for Buddy" Facebook page that swiftly attracted thousands to join, from 100 countries. As of this writing, the number of Facebookers supporting this worthy cause was a quarter-million-plus. "It's a movement," Sherman says proudly. People who know or have heard of Sherman weren't surprised that he would champion a dog he'd never even met. A resident of Aspen, Colorado, Sherman co-owns the successful venture K9000 Dog Wash, and sits on the board of one of his home state's best animal shelters, the Animal Rescue Foundation of Colorado; he's equally renowned for his business savvy and his animal advocacy. Sherman is also a doting dad to two charismatic rescues: Cyrus, a labborder collie, and Willow, a Catahoula Leopard-Blue Heeler. Inspired by his own two lucky mutts as
much as by the millions of wonderful pets just like them that are less fortunate, last year Sherman founded the nonprofit Adopt a Pet Foundation to raise awareness of the urgent need to adopt shelter animals. The goal of this 501(c) (3) corporation is to introduce a license plate bill for the State of Colorado, with the tag line "Adopt a Shelter Pet." Funds raised through the sale of the "Adopt a Shelter Pet" license plate in Colorado will be distributed to overburdened, underfunded animal shelters, to be used for spaying/ neutering, vaccinations and medical supplies, disease prevention, and other vital services, so that the animals in the shelters' care have a better chance at surviving to find the forever homes they so deserve. As this issue of The American Dog went to press, the bill was making it through the legislative process and waiting to be signed into law by the Governor. The Colorado Legislature couldn't help but be moved by Sherman's impassioned testimony, which could easily have melted a heart of stone. In closing, he said: "I am not some ultraLeft, red-paint--carrying animal rights activist. I'm a guy who sees a way to help make our state better when it comes to animal welfare. When I saw the 'Respect
Life' license plate three years ago, I thought, What a great message. Shelter animals are search-and-rescue dogs, they assist the blind and the physically disabled, they are companions to those who don't socialize very much, they brighten the day of the sick and dying, they cheer up the elderly in nursing homes. They are amazing creatures, with the capacity to forgive and love that we humans can learn from, and those of us who have pets know that first-hand. With this bill, there's a way to better help animals in shelters and rescues throughout our beautiful state; a way to help veterinarians in those areas most affected by pet overpopulation; a way to give a hand to those tireless shelter and rescue workers who commit their hearts and souls to saving animals; and yes, another way to 'Respect Life' in Colorado." There's no question that Gary Sherman is a role model for American dog lovers everywhere. Not to mention a dreamboat. But sorry ladies, Sherman's Facebook page says he's "in a relationship."
For more information, you can Facebook “friend” Gary Sherman and also join the Facebook group “Demand Justice for Buddy.”
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 77
THE DOG SCENE
|
ROLE MODEL
Madeline, a Bulldog Puppy Graduates Kindergarten!
photoS courtesy of Deborah Pack with Outreach Christian School
The American Dog Reports
E
ach year in the United States, literally millions of dogs are killed at animal shelters because there aren't enough homes for them all. It’s high time to start thinking creatively, to help put a stop to this terrible waste of unconditional love. The American Dog proposes that schools across our country implement a life-saving teaching lesson: Why not adopt a classroom dog at your local animal shelter, to teach kids the importance of compassion, community, and reaching out a helping hand to a neighbor in need? That's not all the kids will learn by teaming up with teachers to care for a K9. They'll also get first-hand experience in how to be responsible by caring for a pet—it's a lesson they'll have loads of fun learning, and one they'll never forget. Teachers will have no problem
with attendance; their pupils will be so excited to get to school on time just to greet the teacher's pet. As for the dogs, they will quite literally be saved by the bell—the school bell! Talk about a winwin-win situation. Take a page out of Deborah Pack's notebook. The Kansas City educator teaches Kindergarten and Pre-K at the Outreach Christian School. Last May, her five students graduated with their class pet, a Bulldog named Madeline that they helped to raise and train with verbal and hand commands. Madeline even graduated with "her" students, wearing a mortarboard and carrying a diploma in her mouth! Speaking of the positive effects Madeline had on her students, the teacher said, "They learn compassion, kindness, and responsibility and they look past what is to what could be. When Madeline
78 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
graduated, she was not a dog to them but a friend." And that's the most valuable lesson of all.
If you would like to contact Deborah Peck about starting a program like this in your school, she can be reached Outreach Christian School at 2900 N.E. Cates In Kansas City, MO 64117. School phone number: (816) 455-5575.
• Dog Food Delivery Service and Online Store •
• Eco-Friendly Dog Products •
• Highest Quality Dog Food & Treats •
www.happywoof.net
• 703.967.0465 • happywoof@mac.com •
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 79
THE DOG SCENE
|
FUNDRAISING EVENT Humane Society of the Unites States
SPOTLIGHT HUMANE Dallas’ First Annual Gala Friday, March 26th, 2010 Union Station in Dallas, TX All proceeds from the event will benefit The HSUS’s Stop Puppy Mills Campaign PHOTOS BY LARA BIERNER & LISA STEWART
Wayne Pacelle
Monica Greene, Nancy Lieberman, Cheryl Wyly
Kristina Bowman, Wayne Pacelle, Holly Forsythe, Catherine Flagg
Sarah Davis, John Sparling, Rob McCollum, Catharine Flagg
80 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Bernie Berlin
Skip and Mary Trimble
Elizabeth Robertson and Jack Knox Nancy Lieberman, Cheryl Wyly, Monica Greene, Jocelyn White Tom McPhee
Arthur Benjamin & Sundays Hunt
Incredible group of Dallas gala volunteers
Chastity Rodgers and Donna Sullivan
Liz Perales and Robin Sugg
George Grayson and Cathy Dunne
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 81
go internet
!
shopping
Shop till you drop with the click of a mouse! Idawg Cascade Camo Windbreaker
Water-resistant raincoat/wind-breaker is ideal for all seasons. It is very light-weight and lined with a thin athletic jersey dazzle lining to detract fur. Perfect for dogs who don’t need the warmth but just need the rain and wind protection. Made in Seattle, WA.
www.idawgclothing.com
Pet Cremains “Loving Memory” Necklace The cremation jewelry lines are called “Sweet Memories” and come in several styles and colors that contain the actual ashes of your beloved pet. Each is approximately ¾” and come with a 30” sheer ribbon.
www.petcremainsinglass.com
Ruffscue Dogoscope Charm Don’t know your pooches sign? Then Ruffscue the Rescue is the charm for you. Ruffscue is dedicated to rescue dogs everywhere and promotes and encourages the practice of dog rescue and adoption.
www.dogoscopes.com
Dublin Dog Downtown Diva Collar Your Sergeant Sassy will be anything but incognito as she marches down Main St. in her bubble gum inspired camo print collar. So, unless she’s hiding in a flower bed of pink lilacs, or flocking atop a pile of Victoria Secrets Summer clearance, her cover is blown!
www.dublindog.com 82 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Sara England Designs Be sure to look for Sara England’s whimsical art prints while vacationing this summer. Sara’s breed specific prints are sure to bring a smile. Check out Sara’s website to see new fun products being introduced this summer!
www.saraenglanddesigns.com
The Zentek Sport Coat. Stylish yet practical. Cutting edge technology allows the Zentek coat to act as a cooling coat without water or gels. Sizes S-1 to S-10. $ 68 to $149.00. Proudly made in USA.
www.zentekclothing.com
Eye Envy Tear Stain Remover A combination of natural ingredients that attack the root of the problem. Our topically applied solution was scientifically developed to eradicate those pesky tear stains, safely and effectively. Product contains NO bleach, antibiotics or chemicals.
www.eyeenvy.com
The IPICK UP2 No more bulging pockets or juggling bags because Kemp’s iPICK UP2TM conveniently attaches to your dog’s leash and dispenses bags in a roll. Each iPICK UP2 is handmade in the USA out of reused kite sails. Each bag comes with a roll of 15 biodegradable bags.
www.4u2reuse.com
Mouthful’s Bone Bar Our famous bone bar is the most popular spot in our Denver store! The neighborhood dogs know this treat-tasting extravaganza is just for them. We wanted our national customers to have the ability to share in the same experience so we added it to our website.
www.mouthfuls.net
“Blaze” Paper Mache Dog Sculpture This unique and original dog sculpture is made by artist Nancy Allen who has an extensive collection of sculptures, masks and mixed-media which are mostly originals and one-of-a-kind pieces.
www.nancyallenstudio.com The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 83
THE DOG SCENE
|
AN AMAZING KID!
Help Jack Save Abused Elephants in Thailand By Viv Lanting (Jack’s mom) All photos by Viv Lanting
W
hen my husband Tracy and I traveled to Thailand from New Zealand in April 2009 with our eight- year-old son Jack, we never imagined that visiting the
Elephant Nature Park would be one of the most amazing and life-changing experiences of our lives. Nestled in the beautiful Mae Taeng Valley, the Elephant Nature Park is a
non-profit sanctuary and refuge for elephants who have suffered the most horrendous abuse imaginable. Here, their wounds are tended to and their trust in humans is restored by the love and care they receive, sometimes for the first time in their lives. At the Elephant Nature Park you will find no exploitation of these endangered, noble giants, no confinement with chains; nor will you ride in saddles on top of their backs. The lucky elephants who get to call this sanctuary home will never work again, nor will they know abuse. Instead, they are happy and healthy, forming family groups of their own choosing, and living out the remainder of their lives in peace and with dignity. On our arrival at the sanctuary, we were struck by the sight of elephants everywhere roaming freely against a breathtaking backdrop of jungle-clad mountains and the tranquil peace for both humans and elephants alike. A few elephants meandered over to greet us on our arrival, out of curiosity perhaps, but more than likely there was an anticipation of food. It is all about the food with elephants; it has to be when you consider that they eat through 135kg of food a day! Not long after we arrived, the food bell was rung and a nearstampede of hungry mouths brought us and the other visitors up close and personal with the 30-plus elephants who currently live at the sanctuary. Each elephant has its own basket of food and preference when it comes to the food in it. Some like their fruit peeled, others won’t eat their veggies until they are satisfied that their fruit is all gone,
84 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
and some try to steal their favorite foods from others. Visitor numbers are kept low so there are always enough elephants for everyone to have one of their own to feed. The highlight of our stay at the Elephant Nature Park was meeting a very special elephant called Lily. Lily introduced herself to Jack soon after our arrival at the park as he was sitting quietly on the ground by himself. When I heard him giggling, I turned around and was stunned to see that Jack had the trunk of Lily, a fifty-four-year-old elephant, wrapped gently around him. From that moment on, Jack and Lily became inseparable friends, just as a boy and his dog might be. It was surreal to see them together, and many at the park commented on how extraordinary their relationship was. Lily came from a life in the illegal logging industry, where she was fed methamphetamines to keep her working around the clock, seven days a week, until she finally had a physical and nervous breakdown. She was shaking, unable to eat, and convulsing when Lek found her chained to a tree. It took several years to bring Lily off her drug addiction and return life back to her eyes. But incredibly she is now one of the loveliest and most gentle souls you will ever meet. On a walk around the park with Jodi, we were introduced to many of the elephants and told of an American couple who had visited the park and heard how one of the leased elephants who had been brought back to health over an 18-month period was about to be sold by its owners. They had been so touched by this elephant’s story that the husband decided to buy the creature as a birthday present for his wife - and then donated it back to the Elephant Nature
Park. In doing so, he saved this elephant from a life of misery and begging on the streets of Bangkok. Oh, how one story can change your life forever! Jack instantly wanted to save an elephant too. We explained to Jack how we could not afford to do the same and although he was disappointed, we assumed that was the end of the idea. We were very, very wrong, as we found out several days later when Jack brought up the subject again. Only this time, he had a plan. Jack had thought up at least 10 different fundraising ideas to help raise the money needed to save an elephant. He had planned his strategy well and with his teary eyes looking up at us, there was no option but to say Yes to our incredibly determined little boy. Since our return to New Zealand , Jack has raised $6,500 towards the $20,000 that he needs to save an elephant on our return to Thailand this year. He has named his charity “A Life Like Lily,” in honor of his pachyderm friend, and plans to donate "his" elephant to the Elephant Nature Park, with any excess money going towards the medical care that this elephant is inevitably going to need. Along with raising money, Jack has also been focused on raising awareness of the plight of Thailand's elephants in a bid to educate future travelers to Thailand "so they can make good choices," he says. Jack has had a lot of success with the support of our town's newspaper - he has appeared in the paper numerous times, had a four-page spread in a magazine, been interviewed by Jim Mora on the National Programme, and has been spoken about on the TV news and on a top current affairs programme. He has also convinced Harvey World Travel to hand out information to customers traveling to Thailand throughout their
60 stores, and they increased their support by posting this information on their web page, which in turn was picked up and printed in a travel agent's travel magazine. We are all very busy people these days, organizing a motor bike trail ride and training hard for a 25km sponsored walk; Jack is also painting pictures of elephants for an exhibition he is having. So far, Jack has raised money through crazy hair days at local schools, held a garage sale and raffle, sold Magical Reindeer Oats in shops around town, sold lemonade at the end of the drive, and held a celebrity auction. In addition, Jack also hires out his bouncy castle and has a constant stream of orders for his famous chocolate cake. We were incredibly sad to leave Lily and everyone at the Elephant Nature Park . It was an inspiring time for us and we felt that we had made a contribution to conservation. These elephants will hold a special place in our hearts and will remain in our memories for a lifetime. As tourists, we hold the future of the Asian elephant in our hands. We have the ability to choose responsible travel with our tourist dollars, and in doing so, the power en masse to secure a better future for these beautiful, peaceful creatures.
For more information: Visit the Web site at: www.elephantnaturepark.org Become a fan on Facebook: “Help Jack Save Abused Elephants in Thailand.” You can Facebookfriend Viv Lanting to keep in touch and follow the story.
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 85
THE DOG SCENE
|
TRAVELING IN STYLE
FOUR-LEGGED
JET SETTING
By Kevin Green Photos by Heather Green
P
ure elegance and prestige at its finest! I introduce the Falcon 900EX Dassult—designed to bring the world within your reach. Fully equipped with luxury seating, multimedia office capabilities, and a galley that houses all the essentials for a fine dining experience…for you and Fido.
Looking at the body of this jet, it’s easy to assume the performance it boasts; however, it’s the interior that takes your breath away. The cabin length measures just over 33 feet, which allows 25 feet of passenger seating (plenty of headroom, too, with the height measuring 6 feet, 2 inches). The cabin is surrounded with two dozen panoramic windows that allow plenty of natural light in, and an abundance of area to see out. The Falcon 900EX is extremely versatile because it can use small airports, even at higher altitudes. This state-of-the-art aircraft is also one of the safest in its class, given its ability to fly slower on approach. Unfortunately, I did not get a chance to experience a ride in this amazing and beautiful aircraft, but the photos taken inside with my two four-legged friends allowed me to imagine how blissful it would feel to fly in the lap of luxury!
86 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
DIMENSIONS Length 20.21m Height 7.55m Wingspan 19.33m Tailplane Span 7.74m
CABIN DIMENSIONS Length Width Height Volume
10.11m 2.34m 1.88m 35.8m3
WEIGHTS Empty Weight Maximum Payload Maximum Fuel Capacity Maximum Take-Off Weight Maximum Landing Weight
10,829kg 2,796kg 9,525kg 21,909kg 19,050kg
PERFORMANCE Maximum Speed 890km/h Take-Off Run 1,590m Landing Run 724m Range 8,334km
ENGINES Engine 3 x Honeywell TFE731-5BR-1C Thrust 4,750lb each
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 87
THE DOG SCENE
|
WORKING DOGS
GUIDE DOGS FOR THE
BLIND
Teamwork
By Tamra Monahan PHOTOS COURTESY OF GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND
C
hris Foster and O’Connor are an unstoppable team. They hop on and off buses, ride subway trains, zip through airports to catch planes, and wade through oceans of pedestrians, cars, and crosswalks as they maneuver through some of the country’s largest cities. The subway system in Washington D.C.? No match for this pair. Chicago’s O’Hare Airport?
Piece of cake. The congested streets of New York City? Not a problem.
For most people, busy streets and crowded airports can be a challenge; but imagine what it’s like for Chris, who has been blind since birth. With the assistance of O’Connor, however, Chris can move through any metropolitan area with ease and speed. As a trained
88 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
guide dog, this Labrador Retriever’s job is to help Chris get from one place to another quickly and efficiently, which is exactly what he does. These two don’t saunter anywhere. When Chris gives the forward command, they take off like race walkers speeding toward the finish line, even if they’re on a bridge over a major
highway and the finish line is a steep staircase. Without a hint of trepidation, Chris and O’Connor charge across the bridge getting closer and closer to the edge. Just when it seems they might topple down the stairs, the trusty Black Lab slows down, signaling to his handler to do the same. At the top of the precipitous staircase, man and dog finally halt with the toes of Chris’s boots peeking over the edge. He grasps the railing, gives the forward command, and they’re off, nearly running down the stairs as if he can see every step. When they reach the bottom, O’Connor stops, allowing Chris to get his bearings and decide which way to go. Together, they demonstrate perfectly how a guide dog and his handler work as one unit, each providing an integral part of the traveling team. Yet Chris was not always sold on the idea of using a guide dog. Cautiously, he began to wonder what it would be like if he took his expert skills with a cane and added a dog, understanding that this would not dramatically transform his life, but might enhance it.
“I did not believe for a moment that getting a dog would magically change my life,” Chris says. “I needed to be convinced, and it worked out extremely well because of my skills and the training and the dogs I’ve had.” A guide dog begins life as a carefree puppy, but at the tender age of eight weeks, the frisky pup is paired with a volunteer who, over the course of a year and a half, takes the dog from impetuous puppy to good canine citizen. This socialization process teaches the dog how to be calm and obedient in all types of environments—noisy shopping malls, crowded sidewalks, quiet classrooms, distracting pet stores. Once the young dogs prove themselves in these situations, they are sent to school. Guide Dogs for the Blind, a non-profit organization established in 1942, has two of the best training facilities in the United States. At their campuses in San Rafael, California and Boring, Oregon, trainers put their canine students through five months of intensive education. According to Beth Hamilton, GDB’s Graduate Services Specialist, training involves teaching the dogs what to do and what not to do. Guide dogs are taught to travel in a straight line, avoiding obstacles and stopping at elevation changes such as curbs, stairs, escalators, and wheelchair ramps. But they are also taught what to avoid: approaching other dogs or people, chasing animals, or food offered by anyone except the handler. To become a guide dog, these canines must be able to turn off their desire to be a playful pup and concentrate on doing their job. “If the dog is much more interested in chasing a cat down the street and he can’t turn that off in himself, then he won’t make it through the program,” says Beth. Creating a synchronized team that can handle almost any situation is also a
primary goal at Guide Dogs for the Blind. To accomplish this, trainers match the dog’s personality with that of the blind handler and his environment. If a dog is quiet and doesn’t like energetic cities, then he will be paired with someone in a more rural setting. On the other hand, a dog that loves the urban hustle and bustle may be bored in the country. The same applies to personality: A lively dog is teamed with someone who is more commanding, while a calmer animal works better with a quieter human companion. The trick is finding the right dog for the right person in the right environment. When all three elements come together, the result is an amazing traveling team.
For more information on Guide Dogs for the Blind: California Campus Guide Dogs for the Blind 350 Los Ranchitos Rd San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 499-4000 Oregon Campus Guide Dogs for the Blind 32901 S.E. Kelso Rd Boring, OR 97009 (503) 668-2100 www.guidedogs.com toll-free (800) 295-4050
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 89
THE DOG SCENE
|
Non-PROFIT
SANTA CRUZ SPCA
The Little Animal Shelter That Could
By Jennifer Moulton Photo of Lisa Carter by Portia Shao
I
f ever there was a story of a little place that can do big things, this is it. The Santa Cruz SPCA is a private, non-profit rescue that operates out of a modest converted house. The exterior is in some disrepair, but I can tell by the picket fence adorned with pink wooden hearts, the shiny sign, and the laughter radiating from the open windows, that this place begs to be given a chance to
show its true personality—much like the animals housed within. This is no ordinary shelter. A terrier basks in the sun next to a window; a Chihuahua enjoys a belly rub from a volunteer as she talks with visitors. Yes, the well-behaved dogs roam free inside, with access to the play yards through a sliding glass door. Outside, there is a cattery with trees, posts, tunnels, scratch pads, towers, and toys. It’s cat heaven in a safe enclosure where they can enjoy the sun and breeze during the day before retiring to their kennels at night. “Being locked in a cage most of the day causes kennel stress, so we’ve found that having the animals out in a more homelike environment helps calm them and allows for more successful adoptions,” says Lisa Carter, Executive Director of the SPCA.
Lisa Carter, Executive Director of the SPCA.
Unlike most directors who spend their time behind a desk in an office, Lisa is always in the front room ready to greet visitors. She works seven days a week at the shelter, and puts in more hours
90 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
from home. I ask her why she gave up a six-figure salary running an engineering company to work at a job that barely allows her to make ends meet. “To make a difference,” she responds. And make a difference she has. Under her direction, the SPCA has accomplished feats beyond those of national organizations. The Santa Cruz SPCA was established in 1938, and has since gone through a series of changes and innovations. Lisa took the position of Executive Director eight years ago, after a shift in the organization from animal control to rescue. One of her first major achievements as director was in 2005, when the SPCA carried out the fifth largest airlift rescue in the nation during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. With generous support from Doris Day, the shelter arranged an airlift and ground transport to Santa Cruz for nearly 200 animals. In the end, five were reunited with their owners and the rest were placed in adoptive homes. To an extent, this experience put the SPCA on the map. Adoptions increased dramatically through the help
of a dedicated staff and an ambitious web presence. “We’ve received calls and emails from people across the country wanting to adopt,” Lisa says with a laugh. Since then, the SPCA has established accounts on Facebook, Twitter, PetFinder, and many other online communities. The shelter was even chosen as a Google Favorite Place. Celebrities have taken notice as well. With donations from Ben Stein and Christine Craft as well as Doris Day, the SPCA has quite obviously broken the small-town animal shelter mold. With various programs aimed at assisting people in the community, the SPCA has surpassed the paradigm once again. Heather’s Pet Food Bank, in memory of and made possible by Heather Zir, a musician and animal lover, is one of the largest in the nation. Pet owners who can't afford food for their animals can stop by the SPCA for help.
With other rescues from places like Okinawa, Mexico, and various overcrowded shelters throughout the state, the SPCA has not only rescued tens of thousands of animals since its inception, but maintains an average of 150 adoptions per month. “Numbers like these are huge,” Lisa explains. It’s obvious from the sheer determination in her voice that she is one of the most dedicated animal advocates around. Unfortunately, dedication can only go so far. “With the goals we have, the number of animals we want to rescue, and the condition of the building we are in, we desperately need a new shelter,” she says. The SPCA is working on a capital campaign to buy the land they are on and construct a new facility. “We have very low overhead, so that makes our goal much more attainable," Lisa explains. "We want the adoptables to
roam free, we want to continue offering our programs to the community, and helping with large rescues when the need is there. With a new shelter, we could do all that.” A passionate dedication to animals and the community are hallmarks of the Santa Cruz SPCA. It is imperative that they have the space that will allow them to meet their goals and continue to reach higher and further in their efforts to save and protect the animals who need them so badly.
For more information or to make a donation: Santa Cruz SPCA 2685 Chanticleer Avenue Santa Cruz, CA 95065 (831) 465-5000 www.santacruzspca.org
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 91
THE DOG SCENE
|
NEW YORK
Unleash Brooklyn Holistic Loft for Cats and Dogs By Julia Szabo PHOTOS BY CHRISTIAN JOHNSTON www.christianjohnston.com
N
ew York residents are lucky: if they can't bring their pets along on vacation, they can book a stay-cation at one of the country's most impressive daycare and boarding facilities: Unleash Brooklyn. I confess that I didn't travel long-distance for several years because there was no place I'd trust with my pack of dogs. Thanks to this incredible place, I'm now free to hit the road. Banish thoughts of an ordinary kennel. In fact, the co-owners of this unique establishment are hardcore dog lovers who won't even use what they call "the K-word"—and to back this up, there isn't a single cage in the place. (I checked.) Constructed entirely of eco-friendly, repurposed, sustainable, and non-toxic materials, Unleash Brooklyn bills itself as a "holistic loft for cats and dogs." The most remarkable thing you'll notice upon first walking in is the extremely fine air quality: it's perfectly clear of odor or scent. Now that's clean. Dogs are walked outside and enjoy carefully-supervised play sessions in three spacious exercise runs floored with shock-absorbing rubber, which is very kind to dogs with sore joints. There's even a treadmill for super-high-energy dogs to burn off steam—or paunchy pooches, to help them battle the bulge. When it's sleepytime, the canine guests repair to individual rooms and "dog suites," separated by wooden Dutch doors as in a posh horse stable. Homey touches include framed dog portraits, rugs, chandeliers, and deluxe doggie beds. And how's this for reassuring:
The morning after my dogs' first night at Unleash Brooklyn, I received the following text message: "They are awesome and slept great!" They even sent me photos that proved just how much fun my guys were having in my absence! But for those of us who believe in shelterdog rescue and adoption, perhaps the most irresistible selling point of Unleash Brooklyn is this: the owners also operate an excellent non-profit rescue called Dog Habitat, where—thanks to the support of its generous sponsors—previously abandoned and abused pups enjoy the same premium food, high level of care, and meticulous accommodations as Unleash's paying K9 clientele. "Our rescues are part of our family," explain Unleash co-owners Rob Maher and Jay Lombard. "We go to great lengths to make sure they are adopted to the proper caretakers." Maher and Lombard are more than savvy entrepreneurs; they are true role models for American dog lovers who want to do well and do good. One can only hope that more boarding facilities across the country will follow their lead.
92 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
For more information on Unleash Brooklyn, or to inquire about rates, visit www.unleashbrooklyn.com To make a donation to Dog Habitat, or to become a sponsor, visit www.doghabitat.org
Stephanie Berglund and her rescue dog, Bailey
THE DOG SCENE
|
NON-PROFIT
OLYMPIC ANIMAL SANCTUARY “We save dogs you’d rather see dead”
My Boy Leroy By Steve Markwell, Founder of Olympic Animal Sanctuary Photos courtesy of Olympic Animal Sanctuary.
W
Leroy moved in with a "canine aggression expert," where he endured daily training sessions involving flooding and positive punishment to break him of his dog-aggression. These are techniques with which you might be familiar, because you've probably seen them on TV. Positive punishment is the introduction of an unfavorable stimulus for the purpose of preventing a behavior from being repeated: choking, hitting, spraying with water, throwing car keys at the animal, shouting, and physically dominating the animal are all examples.
Animals First Foundation, the rescue that had placed Leroy in the boarding facility, is unlike many other animal welfare organizations in that when they rescue a dog, killing that animal later when things become difficult isn't an option. AFF paid the medical bill for the dachshund and removed Leroy from the boarding kennel, but they had no intention of killing him.
Positive punishment can get quick results, which is why it makes good TV, but its long-term efficacy is minimal, and it often worsens problem behaviors by attaching additional, negative associations to the triggering stimulus; in plain English, the dog who is afraid of other dogs now has even more reason to fear them because he gets choked and scolded every time he sees one. And perhaps that's why, despite its resurgence in popular culture courtesy of hack dog trainers and slick television personalities, positive punishment is frowned upon by the legitimate animal behavior and animal welfare communities. Flooding is held in low regard as well; it's the technique of bombarding the animal with the stimulus that triggers the
hen Leroy escaped his pen at a boarding kennel and nearly ripped a dachshund in half, the owner of the facility wanted him dead. Even though the attack was a direct result of her failure to contain a 'red-nosed pit bull' with an unknown history apart from tell-tale scars indicating dog fighting, Leroy was the one held responsible—a "vicious, aggressive, bad dog." Fortunately for him, his rescuers weren't willing to write him off so quickly.
94 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
behavior you're trying to change, in the hope that in being so overwhelmed, the animal will no longer react; for example, if you were afraid of snakes, you might be locked in a room full of them until you no longer found them frightening. That might work—or you might have a heart attack and die. Unfortunately for Leroy, the “expert” who worked with him was all too happy to employ outmoded, outdated, dangerous techniques in her attempt to modify his behavior. He was housed in a shed, kenneled next to several other dogs, exposed to dogs throughout the day, and 'corrected' with a jerk on the leash whenever he stepped out of line. He was dominated, controlled, bullied. Several days into his 'rehabilitation', Leroy lunged at another dog, and when the expert jerked on his leash to “correct” him, he turned on her. This expert has appeared on television to promote her skill and knowledge of dangerous dog behavior, so she should have been equipped to deal with Leroy's attempt to bite her, but even though she wasn't harmed, the incident was enough to make her call AFF and demand that he be executed immediately. She gave them 24 hours to remove him from her property. With time running out and nowhere else to turn, they found me. I'm the founder and executive director of Olympic Animal Sanctuary in Forks, Washington. You may have heard of us: We save dogs you'd rather see dead. We save dogs that send people to the emergency room, dogs that kill livestock
For more information or to contact: Steve Markwell Olympic Animal Sanctuary 1021 Russell Rd Forks, WA 98331 (360) 320-6596 email: steve@olympicanimalsanctuary.org
and pets, feral dogs, wolf-dogs, and fighting dogs like Leroy. Some experts don't like what we do, and if they ask me to I'll gladly suggest a receptacle for their expert opinions.
order to please me, but under the right circumstances, that's exactly the case, and I have an itchy, keloidal scar on my chest to remind me of the seriousness of the situation.
You might have heard of some of our dogs: Snaps, the “pit bull” who mauled two women in SeaTac, WA on the command of his handler, a 15-yearold girl; Rocky and April, two trained fighting dogs that killed a calf in Columbia County, OR; Rogue, a Siberian husky who made headlines in Cass County, MI after killing another dog. You probably haven't heard of Brinks, a coonhound who sent rescue workers to the emergency room in Marietta, GA; Max, a miniature pinscher who bit off his owner's lip; Bogart, a Rottweiler/ coonhound/Shar-Pei so scary an entire rescue group in eastern Washington tried to force their director to kill him. In light of the other dogs that call the Sanctuary home, it appeared that Leroy would fit right in.
So maybe Leroy is a monster, but someone made him that way. It's my job to help him become a dog again. I have my work cut out for me.
I brought Leroy to Forks, put him on a natural, raw diet, and kept him away from other dogs for a while. I assessed his behavior cautiously over a period of weeks, not minutes, and found that his desire to attack was a result of his training—he fought with others dogs to please his caregiver. Even after he redirected his attack onto me one afternoon, sinking a fang into my chest and between my ribs, he happily awaited a reward from me at the end of the ordeal. It's a bit spooky to think that Leroy would try to kill me in
What amount of progress Leroy will make remains uncertain; my only goal for him is the same one I have for every dog—that he be healthy, happy, and safe. That doesn't mean I give up on rehab, but I don't have a deadline and a set of arbitrary criteria he needs to meet. A sanctuary is a permanent home, and here, we have the luxury of time when it comes to transforming our dogs' behavior; since Leroy's not going anywhere, what improvements he makes are purely for his own benefit, not for anyone else's. I'd like for Leroy to someday enjoy the benefits of socialization with his own species—in a highly controlled situation, of course— but I don't know how long it might be before that happens.
if he can handle it. I'm not certain when that day will be. What is certain is that Leroy will be loved, treated gently and kindly, never punished, dominated, or controlled. No 'expert' will have the opportunity to torment him, and killing him because of his behavior will never be an option. Society and culture are defined largely by the things that are cherished and those things that are so readily thrown away. And perhaps the treatment of American dogs is one of the clearest indicators of the kind of people we Americans are. I like to think that even though some would call Leroy 'aggressive', 'vicious', a 'bad dog', and cry out for his destruction, you would see him the way I do—a beautiful dog with an ugly past; a good dog with special needs; a fellow American citizen deserving of love and respect. Of course, if you don't see him that way, if I'm being foolishly idealistic and you'd rather see Leroy dead, you'll have to go through me first. I'm ready for you.
Instead of flooding, I use systematic desensitization, a much slower, more methodical process with fewer risks and more predictable results. At the moment, Leroy meets other dogs several times a day for a few seconds at a time; eventually he may be kenneled next to another dog during his downtime if it doesn't cause him undue stress. Someday he may go for walks with a second dog,
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 95
THE DOG SCENE
|
HOPE FOR PAWS
By Audrey Hagar
W
hat do a dog, kitten, sugar glider, owl, alligator lizard, and screech owl have in common? They have all resided in our home as Hope For Paws fosters. Most people think we are a dog rescue, but we made sure to file as a rescue for all animals since we are located in Los Angeles, where the shelters can have anything from hamsters to horses. We are always up for a challenge. We go into the shelters and take the dogs that the public can’t see. Sometimes the animals need thousands of dollars of orthopedic surgery; sometimes they are labeled vicious and unadoptable. My husband and cofounder, Eldad, has quite a reputation throughout the city and we receive emails and calls day and night asking him to save a dog or cat from a dire circumstance. I am actually known as “Audrey, Eldad’s wife.” Eldad also goes where no rescuer will go, such as beneath a gang member’s hangout to save a Mastiff that the gang was planning to kill. He also has the ability to make frightened or aggressive dogs fall in love with him in seconds. Someone once compared our house to “Cheaper by the Dozen.” I have awakened to a strange black Pit Bull inches from my face, watching me sleep. I don’t enjoy the worms that are needed
Photos courtesy of Hope for Paws.
to feed the abandoned birds. I am used to Eldad disappearing in the middle of the night and coming home with ripped clothing, covered in mud.
while searching for the Pit who was now bleeding from puncture wounds. Eldad got him safely into the car and to the vet.
Our latest adventure took us to a hoarder’s house in the middle of the desert, where we brought bags of supplies for the animals and left with four dogs. We plan to go back and take the rest before animal control takes over and euthanizes everyone.
The prognosis was not good for the dog we named Ace. He pulled through the night, survived surgery, and came home to us to recover with horrible wounds and drains. We were wary of Ace’s personality because he just stared and didn‘t wag his tail.
We videotape the rescue missions to show people how, with just a little love and kindness, these animals go from street dogs to well-adjusted pets in a matter of days.
Two days later, we awoke to strange noises on our bed. Ace was playing with our fostered Shih-Tzu Lucy, who was trying to stick her head in his mouth. Ace soon turned out to be the happiest, cutest, and most loving dog. He was adopted soon after.
Recently, in the middle of the night, Eldad received an email that read, “I know you save animals. A stray Pit Bull has been hit by a car and is hurt and on the sidewalk. Please help.” Eldad went downtown and found the injured Pit, who took off into a yard, where he was attacked by dogs who lived there. Eldad had to sneak into this stranger’s yard and distract the attackers, without waking up the residents of the house. Eldad ran back to the car and bought cheeseburgers. He sneaked back into the yard, where the dogs came charging at him, and threw the food at them
96 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Please search for “Hope for Paws” on Youtube.com to see our rescue mission, and support our efforts in saving lives.
For more information or to make a donation: Hope For Paws - Animal Rescue 8950 W. Olympic Blvd. #525 Los Angeles, CA 90211 (310) 880-1416 www.hopeforpaws.org E-mail: contact@hopeforpaws.org
Animal Welfare Attorney Addressing the Laws Affecting You and Your Companion Animal 111 W. Washington St., Suite 1760 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 376-7660 P (888) 376-7660 F email: admin@animalwelfareattorney.com
www.animalwelfareattorney.com
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 97
HHygiene Keeping Your Dog House up to SNIFF!
By Julia Szabo
Y
ou might think that hygiene doesn’t matter to people who rescue, foster, and adopt dogs but you might be quite wrong. Banish the image of the “cat lady” or “doggie do-gooder” as a filthy slob. In actual fact, the compassionate souls who do dog’s work pride themselves on keeping things clean, orderly, and “up to sniff ”— especially if they live with two or more pets. In some cases, believe it or not, the multiple-pet caregivers are even more house-proud than those who don’t have a single pet! But keeping things stylish and spotless is not always easy when you live with several animals, for maintaining an “animal house” does present certain homekeeping challenges. In a home with no pets, cleanup is easier because no animals are present to detect microscopic scent particles that easily go undetected by human nostrils. In a pet-free residence, all you need to do is remove the superficial evidence of a stain. But in a pet residence, a much more thorough clean-up effort is in order. Rather than merely masking an unwanted odor with a pleasantlyfragranced cleaning product, you want
to select a stain and smell remover that actually extracts the offending substance—even if it’s already set in. You also want a cleaner that is nontoxic, since inquisitive pets and children investigate the world with their mouths and mitts—and it’s a relief to know they’re not ingesting harsh chemicals when they do. There are several so-called “pet stain and odor removers” on the market, but in all honesty, not all of them work. The best products out there—the ones that rescuers and foster caregivers will tell you they can’t function without—are the ones that work by actually extracting odors and stains from carpeting, upholstery, and fabrics (including sheets and clothing). This means that, if your pet has accidentally soiled something in your home, or tracked in something unpleasant from outdoors, s/he won’t be compelled to return to that same spot to re-mark it. And in any home with multiple pets, that’s a real dogsend. Pet lovers tend to care about the environment, so they take pains to select non-toxic cleaning products that won’t endanger our home planet, Earth—and that were not tested on
98 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
animals. The fringe benefit of being a compassionate consumer is that your pets’ immediate environment—your home—won’t include anything harmful to irritate them or you. Those of us who adore animals are appalled that several million pets wind up euthanized at animal shelters each year, many of them abandoned for having had just one unfortunate “accident” indoors. But if we all take care to use effective stain- and odorextracitng products when we do our housework chores, we can erase all traces of “accidents”—and by recommending these products to fellow dog lovers or people contemplating pet adoption, we can actually help prevent prevent animals from being dumped by frustrated owners! Equally important, truly effective cleaning products help banish the “slob” stereotype of the multiple-petlover. With a supply of the best, environmentally-friendly home cleanerss on hand, any animal house can be smart, stylish, and smell-free. And that means more people will be motivated to rescue animals—and more rescued animals will find the forever homes they deserve.
Shop Online!
Dog Apparel Dog Grooming Dog Collars Dog Jewelry
Dog Carriers Dog Beds Dog Toys And much more!
www.duds4pups.com
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 99
LLandscape Pet Hazards in the Garden By Elizabeth Bublitz, Owner of Pawfriendly Landscapes And Kris Ahlgrim, D.V.M, Owner of Goldenview Veterinary Hospital
I
t’s finally time to get outside and garden again! There is nothing more exciting than seeing spring blooms, hearing birds sing, and enjoying longer days. But while taking in what Mother Nature has to offer, we must protect our pets from the many hazards lurking in the garden. When designing a pet-friendly backyard, certain considerations should include non-toxic plants, safe edging, secure fences, and wildlife deterrents. Some hazards that our dogs can face in the garden are insect stings, spider bites, GI obstructions due to rock mulch, cut paws from edging, sunburn, escape, and encounters with unwelcome wildlife. Bee stings—Ouch! Pets don’t like bee, hornet or wasp stings any more than people do. Although all plants will attract some bees while flowering, there are plants with sweeter nectar that will attract a greater amount of bees. Position these plants (Blue Mist Spirea/Bluebeard: Caryopteris, clandonensis and Russian Sage: Perovskia atriplicifolia), and any others you’ve noticed that attract bees, in areas your dog cannot access. Although bees typically will not sting humans unless they’re provoked, oftentimes dogs snap at them and can be stung in their mouths. Wasps and hornets may build nests in trees or garden sheds. Monitor these areas and have the hornet/wasp nest removed by a professional. If your dog is stung by a bee, wasp, or hornet, remove the stinger by scraping it with a credit card—it will continue to release venom until it is removed. You can pack the affected area with ice and use an anti-itching cream like calamine lotion or benadryl cream. Like humans, dogs can experience an anaphylactic reaction—wheezing, trembling, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, or collapse. Contact your veterinarian immediately if the dog shows any of these signs or if this is his first sting. Spider Bites—If you suspect your pet has been bitten by a spider, check for visible blisters, which are often but not always present. Your pet may react to the venom in two to six hours. Take your pet to the veterinarian’s office if he exhibits the following symptoms: increased heart rate, paralysis, severe abdominal pain, drooling, cramping of the back and chest (signs of black widow bite), vomiting, weakness, seizures, and pain (signs of a brown recluse bite). Spider bites can be very serious, leading to respiratory
100 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
or cardiovascular collapse and death. If you can safely contain the spider, take it to the veterinarian’s office for identification. Gastro-intestinal obstructions due to “rock sundaes”— If your dog eats rock mulch, it’s best to use wood mulch (dogs may also eat and dig at wood but it passes), pavers, or large cobble (that he cannot carry in his mouth). Sliced paws due to edging—Steel edging is used in almost every landscape design because it divides gardens and prevents the migration of one material into another, such as sod migrating into rock mulch. However, steel edging is like having an exposed knife blade in the backyard. Although a safety cap is sold separately to be secured on the top of the edging, many homeowners do not know to purchase it, or it weathers and pops off, exposing the sharp edging. If you have steel edging, you can install a secure safety cap called Guard-N-Edge or remove it altogether and instead use rolltop edging (the top is rolled to act like a cap so it’s all one piece), plastic edging, pavers, stone, brick. or flagstone.
chain link horizontally under the fence to prevent him from burrowing under it. Also, pounding vinyl lattice (it ages in soil better than cedar) two feet down into the ground along the fence will prevent Spot from digging out. If he’s jumping the fence, use a product called Coyote Roller™ or secure lattice onto the fence at an angle that will deter him from escaping. All of these remedies also prevent wildlife from entering. However, another way dogs escape is by having faulty fences. If your dog is compromising the health of your fence by lunging on it to get to the neighbor’s dog or barking at passersby, install dog windows. I call this solution “Four on the Floor” since it keeps dogs at ground level, where they can see out and bark at the visitor. Cut out a 3’x3’ window in the slats of your fence, secure a 4’x4’ mesh or chicken wire over the window and voila, you have a doggie window. If you change your mind, buying and installing new slats is very inexpensive. It’s a very easy and cost-effective solution to keep your fence healthy. Also, your dog’s nails will be spared since he won’t be lunging and getting them caught in the slats. Sunburn/sunstroke—Just like people, dogs can be overcome by heat and in non-pigmented (white) or lightly pigmented skin areas can become sunburned. Making sure your dog has shaded areas in the yard to relax in will help prevent both heatstroke and sunburn. There are also sunscreen products made especially for dogs that can be purchased at your local pet store or even veterinary office. If your dog becomes sunburned, have him evaluated by your veterinarian for treatment of the sunburned area. Likewise, if you think your dog has become a victim of heatstroke (collapse, heavy panting, drooling, rectal temperature above 103 degrees Fahrenheit), seek immediate veterinary attention after wetting down your dog’s feet and ears to start the cooling process. With a little knowledge and preparation, springtime can be enjoyed safely by both you and your four-legged family member!
Photos courtesy of Pawfriendly Landscapes
Escape—There is nothing more heartbreaking than seeing signs for a lost dog in a neighborhood. Also heartbreaking is the most common emergency seen by veterinarians: a pet being hit by a car. Oftentimes, these tragedies could have been prevented if certain cost-effective remedies were employed to prevent your pet from escaping the yard. If you have a dog that likes to dig, sink chicken wire or
For more information or to contact: Elizabeth Bublitz (Owner) Pawfriendly Landscapes www.pawfriendlylandscapes.com Toll-free: (877) 223-6744 Dr. Kris Ahlgrim www.goldenviewvet.com (303) 279-9182
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 101
NNutrition
DOG NEEDS MORE
Your
than JUST FAST FOOD to
THRIVE! By Deb Dempsey Co-owner Mouthful’s pet boutique www.mouthfuls.net
If you’re a regular reader of The American Dog, then you’re probably already feeding a high-quality kibble to your precious four-legged fur baby. But, and there’s always a “but” with me, that’s merely the first step. Your dog needs more than just kibble in his daily diet. Think about it—we don’t feed our two-legged children the same “nutritionally complete” dry cereal at every meal for their entire lifetime. Why do we do that to our dogs and then expect them to thrive? Oprah’s Veterinarian for her Chicago dogs, Dr. Barbara Royal, is a passionate advocate for species-appropriate nutrition and summed it up this way: “Yes, we feed dry kibble because it’s easy—that’s the bottom line. However, many health issues are due to a diet based on convenience, rather than on what’s essential for an animal’s optimal health.” I couldn’t agree with her more, and I believe that’s the case with all species, including us humans. Dr. Royal further explains, “When dry food hits the stomach, it is not what the stomach expects. The large, dry
102 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
lump of material needs a huge influx of water just to break it up and let it pass into the intestines. This means an abnormal amount of water drinking, and possibly mild dehydration as fluid is taken from the body for this task. There are many ramifications for the kidneys, general health, and even incontinence issues.”
Understand your dog’s digestive process While humans begin the digestive process in our mouths, using digestive enzymes in our saliva, dogs don’t begin to digest their food until it hits their stomach. Many dog owners lament the fact that their dog gulps their food and never seems to chew. Canine teeth, however, were designed to rip the flesh of meat, not chew cud like a cow. A dog’s stomach is a strong, muscular organ that mixes the food with hydrochloric acid, digestive enzymes, and mucus, which the stomach lining secretes to protect the stomach tissue. The food is held in the stomach until this initial digestion is complete and the food changes to a liquid consistency, similar to potato soup. This “soup” is then pushed out of the stomach and into the small intestine. Further digestion takes place here with more enzymes added from the pancreas and liver. The absorption of nutrients takes place mainly in the small intestine. From there, the large intestine contains bacteria designed to break down any remaining fiber. If your dogs are clearing the room because of gas, chances are they are not digesting the plant material in their food. A dog’s large intestine is mainly designed to absorb moisture, forming the stool. If a dog has loose stools, the addition of pureed pumpkin will help to absorb moisture in the large intestine, firming up the stools.
fyi... The less moisture a dog has in his diet, the longer the food will stay in the stomach, mixing with hydrochloric acid and losing valuable nutrients. Therein, even if you’re feeding an incredibly wonderful kibble, many of those nutrients are lost to the stomach acid. Consider this: The total digestion time of raw food is generally 4-6 hours, while dry food may take 10-12 hours to go through a dog’s digestive tract. Dr. Royal points out, “Animals eating only processed foods (dry kibble) have been shown to have significantly decreased enzyme levels in their intestinal villi. These enzymes are essential for proper nutrient processing. Highly processed foods increase quick absorption and speed motility in a way that is not always healthful. Without proper enzymes and transit time, the GI tract can’t properly prepare and absorb nutrients. The processed food therefore alters the ability of the intestines to be an effective “border patrol,” determining which molecules are allowed to pass from the GI tract into the animal’s bloodstream.” The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 103
Your
DOG NEEDS MORE than JUST FAST FOOD to THRIVE!
Determining a dog’s ideal diet
Last thoughts
For years, pet food companies and traditional veterinarians have told us that we should never feed table scraps to our dogs. Many of our clients sheepishly admit to slipping an occasional leftover to their dog and then look to me for forgiveness. Instead, I find myself patting them on the back and encouraging more real food to supplement their basic diet.
Just as our two-legged children can survive eating a diet of only fast food, dogs can obviously survive on a wide variety of diets, including those heavy in carbohydrates. The gold standard AAFCO, Inc. (American Association of Feed Control Officials) feeding trials need only prove that a dog can survive for 26 weeks while eating the food. The question that group hasn’t publicly addressed, however, is whether those dogs are thriving to their full potential.
Dr. Royal advises that “there is no perfect dog food for every dog. The only way to find a 'perfect fit food' is to follow basic guidelines and see what works best.” She has absolute rules and flexible guidelines for her clients, and was kind enough to share them. ABSOLUTE: Protein greater than 30% (dry matter basis, canned foods have a different measurement), avoid bad carbs (corn, wheat especially), avoid toxins, bad chemicals, and carcinogens (e.g. onions, chocolate, ethoxyquin, BHA, BHT). FLEXIBLE: Try to feed foods with normal moisture content (avoid dry kibble), avoid other carbs (e.g. white potato), avoid too many chemicals (unpronounceable names and things you don’t recognize as food) or too many supplements (like garlic, which is a strong herbal medicine, and is best given in measured doses). “I am always mindful of the financial constraints, preferences and lifestyle of the owner," Dr. Royal says. "After that, I factor in the lifestyle, physical response, and the preferences of the dog (working dog? couch potato?) and their physical reaction to the food (normal stool, healthy coat, good weight…) and then the food plan for a particular animal becomes apparent.”
Incorporate moisture into your dog’s diet Most pet owners are hesitant to give up their dog’s dry kibble for convenience or financial reasons. I consistently have owners ask me if adding water to their dog’s kibble is a good idea to boost moisture content, so I posed this question to Dr. Royal. “It may help," she says, "but it is not an ideal solution. Canned, pre-prepared raw, or home-cooked foods are still better than dry processed food.” I feed my own dogs a varied diet and advise our clients to do the same. A high-quality, dry kibble can be a good starting point and a convenient backup for most dog parents. Whenever your schedule and checkbook allow, however, try topping the food with raw or cooked meat, steamed veggies, homemade broth, or grain-free canned food. My canine cooking recipes on pages 24-33 are intended to inspire us to look at our dogs’ nutrition in a new way. Feeding dogs shouldn’t be left up to scientists and chemical labs.
104 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Ideally, a dog’s diet should consist primarily of fresh meat that has lots of moisture. There are many wonderful, meat-based kibble formulas on the market these days, including Canidae, Evangers, Mulligan Stew, and Solid Gold. Dr. Royal especially favors grain-free formulas by Nature’s Variety Instinct, Wellness Core, Innova EVO, and Orijen. Topping those highquality diets with a dollop of high-quality canned food or raw meat is a good step towards adding necessary moisture and helping the food pass through the stomach’s acid bath more quickly—giving the dog’s digestive system a better chance to utilize those high-quality nutrients.
Dr. Barbara Royal, DVM,
owns and operates The Royal Treatment Veterinary Center, offering general as well as specialty complimentary veterinary services to her clients in the Chicago area. Read more about her practice at www.royaltreatmentveterinarycenter.com
Reap the benefits of owning a profitable pet business you love… …and avoid a life-time of franchise fees.
The owners of a nationally renowned, award-winning pet boutique can help you start a store from scratch or revamp your specialty store including: site selection and rent negotiation store design and layout product selection that actually sells! visual merchandising that creates a buzz in your store employee training complete marketing package
Let us help you change your thinking from surviving to thriving! $299 Introductory Consultation Package includes a private tour of Mouthfuls’ flagship location a unique question and answer session tailored to your specific needs Learn some of the dirty little secrets in retail that no one else will share with you *U.S. Pet owners spent over 45 billion dollars on their pets in 2009, according to the American Pet Product Association.
Merchandising Queens www.merchandisingqueens.com merchandisingqueens@yahoo.com Denver, Colorado 720.855.7505
G Grooming Dog Days of Summer… preparing for summer BLISS By Kristy Schroeder Owner of Barking Mad Pet Salon www.barkingmadllc.com
W
e all do it. Just admit it. We have a summer preparation list. Sunny, hot days are almost here and our bodies are nowhere near ready to be exposed at the beach! We need to tan, drop a few pounds, tone up a few muscles and thoroughly shave those legs (OK, us girls need to do that… you guys can pass) all before we can be officially summer-ready. But what about our best
106 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
furry friends (BFFs)? What do we do to help them get summer ready? So many dog parents think a simple shorter haircut will do their BFF just fine for the summer strolls and picnics. Truth is there are many things to consider when preparing your BFF for outdoor summer activities. Here’s a helpful list of a few things to consider.
Proper grooming and hygiene Always keep your pet clean and brushed. Even short-coated dogs need grooming. Bathing your dog, though not too often, is a requirement during the summer months! Just as we feel the desperate need for a shower, so do our furry friends… they just can’t turn the water on by themselves like we can! (OK… most dogs cannot!) Brushing your dog daily also keeps dirt and foreign particles from collecting on your dog’s skin, and prevents matting of the coat in between baths. Dirt collecting on the skin can cause clogged hair follicles or irritations that lead to infection. Most do not realize it, but allowing your dog's coat to become matted is a form of animal cruelty. Mats are uncomfortable and irritate the skin beneath, causing your dog to scratch and tightening the mat further! Add summer heat and humidity to that matted coat and pure misery awaits your furry friend. Also remember to keep your dog's ears clean. Wax buildup and dirt buildup lead to ear infections or ear mites, which are as terrible as they sound for your friend to cope with! Proper nail care Yes, I know. I have heard it all. “My dog simply will not let me trim his/her nails” or “I am scared I may hurt him/ her.” Well, the health consequences of not stepping up to the plate can be devastating. Ever see one of those old dogs with nails so long they curve the toe off to the side? That condition is called splay foot, and it can be crippling and painful for your friend. If you are not confident about trimming your dog’s nails, please go to your local grooming shop or vet and have it done. Do not wait until it is too late. On average a dog’s nails
need to be trimmed every several weeks, depending on the activity level of the dog. My dogs rollerblade with me during the summer, so their nails are naturally “filed” by the pavement every day! Sun protection You protect yourself from sunburn, but what about your dog? Bet you think their furry coat is enough protection? Think again. Several breeds are quite prone to sunburn, such as white-haired, fair-skinned breeds (Dalmatian, Maltese, etc.) but also those with parted coats (Yorkies, Shih-tzus, etc.) where they have direct exposure to the sun in the area of the part. Also, dogs with upright ears can be prone to sunburn as well, such as Westies, Rat Terriers, or Pitties. How about short-legged dogs? You bet! My little Jack Russell’s belly received a terrible sunburn out on the boat one day … I was at a loss. But think about this …. Their soft tummies are closer to the ground/water and receive direct reflections of sunlight! My poor baby was sore for days due to my negligence. Never again. Many doggy sunscreens are available these days. Please spend
the time and money to protect your best friend from sunburn and the aftereffects a sunburn can have on your dog. A few other things to keep in mind throughout the summer season: Always keep clean, fresh, cool water in supply when out at the beach, or walking and hiking with your dog. Make sure your dog is up-to-date with his/her Heartworm medication, as well as flea and tick protection. After hikes through the woods or country-style settings, definitely check your dog for burrs or twigs/leaves his-her coat may have picked up along the walk. These can be terribly uncomfortable and and even become matted in the coat. In closing, just remember your BFF cannot clearly tell you in specific words what he or she needs; figuring that out is our job and our responsibility, and it should be second nature. To know. I try to be a pro-active friend to my furry kids. I like to think ahead and be prepared— to put myself in their paws, if you will. After all, they trust me with their life, and that is a responsibility I do not take lightly. Because I also trust them with mine.
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 107
D Dr.’s Corner What Happens if Your Dog Gets Bitten by a Snake? Snake Bite Envenomation By Stacy D. Meola, DVM Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital www.wheatridgeanimal.com
S
nakes of the Pit Viper family are the most common snakes in the United States and include all species of rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouth water moccasins. Bites from these reptiles are very serious and can be life-threatening to your pet. Immediate medical attention is warranted if you witness or suspect that your dog has been bitten by a snake. During a bite, the snake releases a controlled amount of venom into their target. The species, size, age, time since the last envenomation, and the perceived threat level all influence the amount of venom injected. Variation in the type of venom also occurs between the species, but in general contains enzymes and other proteins that target the nervous system and the blood cells and cause tissue death. Unfortunately, there is no way to tell how much venom has been injected with a bite, so all dogs should be brought to a veterinarian immediately and treated aggressively .
The most common locations that receive snake bites are the head and neck, followed by the front legs. The clinical signs associated with the bite may include puncture wounds, bleeding, swelling, pain, and generalized weakness. Do not try to remove the venom from your pet’s wounds by suction, and do not place a tourniquet, ice, or warm packs on the bite wound. These treatments may seem tempting, but they may make the effects of the envenomation worse. Also, do not give your dog any medications. It is better to keep your pet calm and quiet and immediately bring him to the nearest veterinary hospital. The goal of treatment for your pet will be to minimize and reverse the effects of the venom as well as pain management. Specific treatments may include intravenous fluids, antibiotics, pain medication, and antivenin. Most dogs require hospitalization for several days, with approximately 80 percent surviving if they receive appropriate treatment. A Rattlesnake vaccine is available; however there are some concerns as to its efficacy. Your dog may need to be vaccinated as many as three times a year to maintain protection and the vaccine may not provide immunity against all snakes in your area. Please consult with your veterinarian to see if the vaccine is appropriate for your dog. An important fact to understand is that even if your dog has been vaccinated, he will still need to be treated following envenomation. The vaccine will decrease the severity of the clinical signs, but will not eliminate them completely. Snake envenomations are a serious and potentially life-threatening problem that cannot be prevented. However, with prompt and aggressive treatment by a veterinarian, most dogs can survive and continue to enjoy the outdoors.
108 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
“The world is a dangerous place not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing” ~ Albert Einstein
ADOPT A DOG. SAVE A LIFE! The American Dog Magazine encourages everyone who wants a dog to adopt from your local animal shelter or rescue group. You CAN make a difference. Whether it’s giving a little of your time to volunteer, donating a small percentage of your paycheck to a shelter, fostering a dog in your home or making room in your family for one more four-legged canine to join your pack. The animals will thank you! This message created by Jamie Downey, designed by Jane Brunton and provided as a public service announcement by The American Dog Magazine on behalf of the 5-7 million dogs and cats euthanized every year in animal shelters. Please consider adopting a dog from your local animal shelter.
D
Dr.’s Corner
Dental Hygiene for your Dog! By Dr. Barbara Royal
F
resh air. It’s hard to believe it’s a major cause of tartar in your pet’s teeth. In fact, there are many important but unknown tidbits of information about dental hygiene. So what are some burning questions from owners about their canines' canines?
If a tooth is broken, does it have to be removed? Which is safer: rawhides, compressed vegetable chew treats, synthetic bones, cooked bones, raw bones, or none of the above? Do I really need to brush my dog’s teeth? (And for heaven’s sake, chicken flavored toothpaste – ugh!) Does a dog have to be under anesthesia to have a dental cleaning? Isn’t bad dog breath unavoidable?
Saliva or air? Turns out, saliva is better. It has enzymes to help keep the mouth clean after a meal. Many veterinarians have seen that “mouth breathers” (chronically nervous/panting dogs, brachycephalic dogs, etc.) have more trouble with tartar buildup. As the oral cavity dries out, the gums, tongue, and teeth aren’t kept moist and tartar builds up more quickly. Of course, this may be a difficult thing to do anything about (new trick: “close your mouth, Cleo”?).
Other dental issues—cracked or broken teeth A tooth that is cracked or broken doesn’t always present a health risk. If there is no pulp (nerve and blood vessels) exposure, and the animal isn’t obviously painful, sometimes a veterinary dentist will try a conservative approach and only take action if there are signs of an abscess or pain (avoiding chewing, pawing at the mouth, foul odor from the mouth, excessive drooling).
Dental Chews Chewing on certain types of bones or rawhides can help reduce tartar and keep the gums healthy. All dogs are different in how they chew a bone. Some are gulpers. Gulpers generally do not do well with bones/rawhides. But the calm chewers can benefit from a good, American-made, plain rawhide, bully stick, ostrich tendon, or other animal-parts chew. Raw bones can be great, albeit a little messy—with the same restrictions as above. Avoid cooked bones as they splinter off in dangerously sharp pieces that are serious trouble for the dog if swallowed. To avoid problems, it’s best to keep a close watch on animals while they are chewing a bone. And throw the bone out before it becomes small enough to swallow whole. I do not recommend offering compressed vegetable bones like those green ones because I am never a fan of adding wheat products (a main ingredient) to a dog’s diet. There are much better ways to keep a dog’s teeth clean and keep a dog healthy: good, moist food, brushing, animal product chew treats.
Brush, Brush, Brush Brushing a dog’s teeth can be a great idea. Tartar takes 2-3 days to fully set, so even brushing just a few times a week can still do a lot of good. Use flavored toothpastes made for dogs (not humans), or even a homemade paste of baking soda and water. Sometimes dental probiotics can also help. But once tartar is solidly on the tooth, it usually won’t come off with brushing alone.
Anesthesia or No Anesthesia? Is a dental cleaning without anesthesia
a good idea? It is certainly not perfect. But where animals may be poor candidates for anesthesia, it may be worth doing. The veterinarian can’t get under the gums nearly as well with an awake animal. And clearly no extractions or radiographs are possible. But a lot can be done without anesthesia. And sometimes, cleaning the teeth this way may be the only alternative.
Halitosis Bad breath in a dog can mean that there is dental or gum disease. It is surprising how many owners ignore their dog’s progressive bad breath as just an unavoidable part of pet ownership. Best to have your vet rule out these problems. And remember, if your dog has horrible breath, you may wish to plug your nose, but don’t breathe through your mouth.
For more information: Dr. Barbara Royal The Royal Treatment Veterinary Center 4130 N. Rockwell Chicago, IL 60618 (773) 267-9966 www.royaltreatmentvetcenter.com
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 111
neglect
e s a e s i d
suffering
loneliness abuse y t l e cru
PLEASE DON’T SUPPORT THE CYCLE OF ANIMAL ABUSE IN PUPPY MILLS. REFUSE TO BUY A PUPPY FROM A PET STORE OR THE INTERNET ADOPT FROM YOUR LOCAL ANIMAL SHELTER OR RESCUE GROUP INSTEAD This message created by Jamie Downey, designed by Jane Brunton and provided as a public service announcement by The American Dog Magazine on behalf of the 5-7 million dogs and cats euthanized every year in animal shelters. Please consider adopting a dog from your local animal shelter.
Dog News
National News—
D
West Hollywood Bans Puppy Mill Sales By Carole Raphaelle Davis
O
n February 16th, the city council of West Hollywood, California, unanimously passed legislation banning the sale of puppy mill dogs and pet factory cats in pet stores. When the law goes into effect later this year, West Hollywood pet retailers will only be allowed to sell dogs and cats from rescue organizations or from the municipal shelter system. The law is the second such ordinance passed in the country, following the ban on dog and cat sales in South Lake Tahoe (also in California). The ordinance was passed with very little opposition, with a Los Angeles Times poll indicating an approval rate of 78% for the new legislation and 22% believing that government was overreaching. Animal protection advocates who are hopeful that similar ordinances will be adopted in other cities around the nation celebrated the decision. Animal welfare advocates contend that puppy mill sales not only contribute to animal cruelty, but that the sales exacerbate the pet overpopulation crisis. According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), between three and four million unwanted companion animals are killed in the nation’s shelters every year. “This is the beginning of the end of puppy mills,” said Ed Buck, Director of Social Compassion in Legislation, an organization that was instrumental in getting the law passed. “There are more than ten thousand puppy mills that treat dogs like cash crops,” said Wayne Pacelle, president of the HSUS. “They’re churning out puppies for the pet trade at the same time that animals in shelters and rescue groups are struggling to contend with the problem of too many animals, too little space. [The ordinance] will save lives in this community and we’re watching it nationwide.” The West Hollywood ban on pet factory sales stems from a thorough citywide investigation by the Companion Animal Protection Society (CAPS) into L.A. pet stores and the mills in the Midwest that supply them. Elite Animals, a West Hollywood pet store, was protested by local activists for five and a half months after CAPS undercover investigators, including this author, discovered that the store was selling under-age puppies from Moscow, violating federal law (Farm Act of 2008).
Photo courtesy of Sylvie Forrest.
Elite Animals was also accused of selling dogs from a substandard breeding facility in Minnesota, which had been cited by the USDA with multiple violations of the Animal Welfare Act. This author provided the city council and the owners of the pet shop with evidence from the USDA licensed breeding operation in Minnesota that showed sick and wounded dogs crammed into wire cages, exposed to freezing temperatures, and living in their own waste. Elite Animals has since stopped selling animals but so far, has refused to work with local rescue organizations. A children’s playpen that used to display puppies remains empty in their window. The ordinance was drafted with help from CAPS, the Animal Legal Defense Fund, the HSUS and the city attorney. Dr. Alan Drusys, chief veterinarian for the County of Riverside, California, spoke to the city council at the public hearing. “This legislation—I’m sorry to say, is very much needed in California and the rest of the country.” Michael Haibach, deputy to Councilmember Jeffrey Prang told me, “Since the passing of this ordinance, we have been contacted by numerous cities, from British Columbia to Italy, to the state of Maryland, to Toronto, Florida, Texas—I have forwarded copies of this ordinance to all of them who want to emulate what we did in West Hollywood. In addition to that, we’ve gotten umpteen letters of support, emails, phone calls—it’s non-stop.” “Protecting sentient beings who depend wholly on their human caretakers is about values and choices,” Dawn Armstrong, director of Lake Tahoe Humane Society, told the Los Angeles Times. “Store by store, city by city, state by state, without pet store outlets, puppy mills will not survive.”
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 115
WWellness
Oral Cancer in Dogs
A Low Cost Alternative Treatment is Available
Photo by Lev Gorn levgornPhotography.com
By Julia Szabo
S
tatistics show that 50 percent of dogs over age 10 will be diagnosed with cancer. I experienced this phenomenon first-hand with my pit bull Sam; now, sadly, my 12-year-old Tiki, a charming Chow-Rottweiler cross, is also a cancer statistic. In February, Tiki developed a suspiciously fast-growing lump on his snout that turned out to be my worst nightmare: oral cancer, taking the form of a frightening, angry tumor high up on his gum. Oral cancer happens to one of the most aggressive forms of this deadly disease. As if that news weren't bad enough, high-tech oncology treatment options at state-of-the-art hospitals, such as New York City's Animal Medical Center, run into the five figures—and I haven't got the scratch. In these hard economic times, I'm not alone. Happily, there's an alternative treatment option that is highly effective and affordable: Neoplasene. An alternative form of chemotherapy made of alkaloids from the bloodroot plant, a.k.a. Sanguinaria canadensis, Neoplasene is the invention of Dr. Terence Fox, founder of Buck Mountain Botanicals in Montana. Unlike conventional chemotherapy, which
attacks the body's cells indiscriminately to eradicate the diseased ones, Neoplasene targets only cancer cells and leaves healthy tissue unharmed. More and more veterinarians— "about 5,000 around the country and the world," Fox reports—are seeing impressive results with Neoplasene. The Humane Society of New York's clinic, known for its high level of care at low prices, and for its ultra-competent and super-compassionate staff vets, agreed to try out Neoplasene on Tiki. The great news is that, just one week after his first treatment—an injection administered under anesthesia, followed up at home by frequent applications of Buck Mountain Wound Balm—Tiki's tumor reduced in size by 50 percent! I confess to being a little flipped when his entire face swelled up, making him resemble an extremely jowly Neapolitan Mastiff; and when bloody matter began oozing copiously from his snout (this was the dead cancer exiting his body). But that was just Neoplasene doing its job: seeking and destroying cancer in my dog's lymph nodes, and causing a temporary inflammation that martialed his body's reserves to fight off the deadly cancerous attack.
116 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Tiki's face regained its normal appearance, and two treatments later, the evil tumor died off completely and fell away, leaving behind a crater of healthy tissue that's healed up very nicely. Tiki has won this round of his battle with oral cancer. To prevent a recurrence, he will be taking twice-daily doses of oral Neoplasene with his food for the rest of his life. The staff veterinarians at the Humane Society of New York are not surprised that a natural medicine would be so effective. "If not for natural substances, we probably wouldn't have many of the drugs we use these days," explains Dr. Marco Zancope. "Penicillin, for example, is a fungus, and one of the early, established chemotherapeutic drugs, Vincristine, is made of Vinca alkaloids from a species of flower called Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar periwinkle). Based on my experience with Neoplasene, it seems to have promise." And that's very hopeful news for low-income clients around the country whose dogs are diagnosed with cancer.
Is you local Pet Boutique carrying
The American Dog Magazine?
The American Dog proudly promotes shopping at the independent, specialty pet boutiques for all your best friend’s wants and needs!
Get a free one year subscription to The American Dog Magazine when your local pet boutique signs up to sell The American Dog Magazine **they have to mention your name when they order (only 1 per store) ATTENTION RETAILERS: Sell The American Dog Magazine in your store! Contact us at ( 303) 840-6111
SPAY OR NEUTER YOUR DOG!
5–8 MILLION dogs and cats are killed EVERY year by a lethal injection of poison, stabbed repeatedly with a heart stick, or thrown into the oven of a gas chamber
These animals are born…only to die horrible deaths Don’t contribute to the pet overpopulation problem BE part of the responsible solution
SPAY OR NEUTER YOUR DOG TODAY! **See page 130 for a list of low-cost spay/neuter clinics nationwide
H
Health
MELALEUCA OIL: A Natural Alternative! By Cindy Nelson
N
atural alternatives to health and wellness for you and your pets can be scary. Most people don’t know how to use natural alternatives. I was watching Dr. Oz’s TV show the other day, and he said the number one item that should be in everyone’s medicine cabinet is Melaleuca (Tea Tree); otherwise known as tea tree oil. It's not just for people! Now that we know we should have it; what do we do with it? As a wellness consultant for Melaleuca products for 14 years, I am very familiar with the benefits associated with tea tree oil and I want to provide The American Dog's readers with ways they can utilize tea tree oil to prevent running up expensive vet bills. I talked about Melaleuca oil a year ago in the summer 2009 issue, but it's important that you know how to dilute the oil so it is not caustic to your pet’s skin. It is better to dilute the Melaleuca oil more than less, so it doesn’t irritate the skin. Melaleuca oil (tea tree oil): to dilute Melaleuca oil for use on pets, any carrier oil can be used, but Jojoba oil is a great choice when applying it to their coat or skin. Or dilute with Olive oil, which is a heavier oil but has anti-fungal properties, and also can be used as an antiseptic wash. Puppies: 2 drops of melaleuca oil to every teaspoon of carrier oil; apply 2-3 times a day. Small to Medium Dogs: Mix 2-3 drops to every teaspoon of carrier oil and apply 2-3 times a day until healed. Large Dogs: Mix 3-4 drops of Melaleuca oil in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. Apply 2-3 times each day until healed.
Watch for sensitive skin reactions; if you notice any irritation, discontinue use and consult with your veterinarian.
the problem. Using the antiseptic wash will help if used 2-3 times a day until the condition improves.
So, here is the list of ways to use this natural wonder!
DAMAGED DEW CLAWS: Use the antiseptic wash. If the condition is severe, see your vet.
ABSCESS: Dab with a strong antiseptic mix of 5-10 drops of Melaleuca oil in one teaspoon of carrier oil. Prevent your pet from licking the area for at least 30 minutes after applying. When the abscess bursts, allow it to drain and bathe with the antiseptic wash. ARTHRITIS: to help relieve pain from joint inflammation, combine 1-2 drops of Melaleuca oil with one teaspoon of Jojoba oil and very gently massage the arthritic area. You can follow with a lowheat heating pad, but watch for burns. COAT CARE: For matting, try wetting the matted hair with a mixture of 1 drop of Melaleuca oil and a half teaspoon of carrier oil. Rub it in to the matted fur a little at a time, starting at the top with a comb and working your way down. If you nick the skin while trimming matted fur, use the antiseptic wash to prevent infection. PEST-FREE FUR: In between bathing your dog, you can mix 3-5 drops of melaleuca oil in 1 ½ cups of a carrier oil. Sprinkle a few drops all over the coat (especially around the neck) and comb through the fur. Another way to apply is to put the oil on a sponge and rub over the dog's coat. It's very important to avoid the eyes, (store in a dark glass bottle in a cool place). DERMATITIS: Does your pet have flaky skin, rashes, itchiness? Make sure your dog has not been exposed to spray polishes, air fresheners, or cleaning products, which may be the cause of
EARS: Mix 1-2 drops of Melaleuca oil with two teaspoons of olive oil. Apply a couple of drops (slightly warmed) with a dropper to each ear. Do not put directly inside the ear. Massage the ears after medicating. HOT SPOTS: Use diluted Melaleuca oil often to reduce the pain, prevent infection, and promote healing (see the recommended amount for size of dog listed above). INSECT BITES & STINGS: To remove the stinger from your dog's skin, carefully tweeze it out. Apply diluted melaleuca oil with a with cotton swab to relieve pain and neutralize the venom (see the recommended amount for size of dog listed above). If your dog doesn’t respond to the treatment, or she/he appears to be getting worse, discontinue use and please contact your veterinarian. Cindy Nelson has been using and recommending Melaleuca products for over 14 years and conducts research for international webinars on toxic products, laws and prevention. If you are interested in purchasing the only Australian Government certified Melaleuca oil (T36-C5 or T40-C3), or safer, green products from Melaleuca Inc., call Cindy directly (303) 919-2441 or any one else you know who represents Melaleuca, Inc. Melaleuca oil (Tea Tree oil) varies by manufacturer.
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 119
T Training Reasons Why Dogs are Dumped at the Pound: Toy, Food, Dog and Human Aggression are all problems that can be worked out or managed. Read what our top trainers have to say!
TOY AGGRESSION
By Doug & Elizabeth Simpson Owners of Tenderfoot Training
P
laying well with others is very important to all dogs, and sharing their toys is a big part of that. Does your dog tend to stand over his toys in a protective manner? Does he trot off under the table to protect his toy? Does he bare his teeth or give a low growl when anyone approaches his toys? Worst yet, does he snap or attack if anyone gets too close? You
have three choices when dealing with problems like this: Be proactive, practice, or manage it. Be proactive by teaching your dog to "drop it" and "take it." This teaches a dog to give things to you and not claim them for his own. Sit next to your dog (on leash, so he can’t escape with the toy) and hold something firm, like a
122 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
bully stick, in your hand. Have the dog sit by you and offer him the stick with a word like “take it.” Keep holding the stick while the dog is chewing on it; just like two dogs sharing the same toy should be well mannered. The dog should only chew on the stick for a short period of time, 5-10 seconds, before they get too involved
and decide to claim it. Give a short, sharp (not loud) direction like “drop it” at the same time that you lean your upper body towards the dog. Do not lean over the dog – only lean in towards him slightly. The dog should release the stick and then you lean back with the stick in your hand and praise with “good drop” in a warm, whispery tone. Only when the dog is calm and not demanding the stick back will you repeat the drill. Ideally you will wait until the dog looks into your eyes for permission to chew the stick, and then you will let him have it. Calmness and good manners always win. Saying “drop” in a mildly startling manner disrupts the dog's focus on the toy; leaning towards the dog is pressure. Closing your distance is a form of pressure, like someone stepping into your space, and leaning back is a release. You are not acting in a threatening manner, but simply claiming what is yours. If the dog does not drop the stick then you can give it a quick twist, which helps him to release it, then praise warmly as if he gave it up himself. Another option is to trade a better item for the toy to convince the dog to relinquish the toy: You give me what’s in your mouth and I will give you a cookie. That can work, but what if they don’t think the cookie is better than the steak they just stole off the counter? You have to search for a better item and by then he has possibly swallowed the first item. Or are you teaching the dog that when they guard a toy they get a treat? Best to teach good manners in the first place, and then it will never be an issue. When your dog is good at releasing the item after 5-10 seconds of chewing, then increase the time he is allowed to chew, so as he gets more invested he still has to practice releasing it to you. Increase the time to 20 seconds, then 45 seconds, etc. The next step is to repeat
the process without holding the stick. When you remove your hand from the stick, it becomes their possession and the dog might decide to challenge you. Because you are testing your dog at a higher level, you have to begin again at 5-10 seconds and increase the time from there. Practice this drill every day and with lots of different items. You should be able to just walk past your dog chewing on a toy and say “drop it” and he does. As he gets good at this you can increase the value of the item to ensure that he can handle all levels of distraction, including a meaty bone. In all of our drills we quickly increase time, energy (learn to handle the energy in the world while remaining calm), and our distance away from dogs which is the distance of respect. Some dogs are great when you are two feet away from them, but what about when you are 20 feet away? If you have acquired a dog who already has serious guarding behaviors, please find a great trainer who can help you. Intense resource guarding is not for the light hearted. It takes patience, knowledge, and confidence to help a dog overcome this issue. Giving up on the dog is not the answer. If you pass on a dog who has this behavior issue he is likely to end up drifting from home to home as each family surrenders their responsibility, or he could be euthanized. This is a trainable situation
and even in the worst-case scenario it is still manageable. Until you are able to get the help you need, you should prevent the opportunity for anyone to encounter this dog when he has an item of value by placing him in his own room or crate while he enjoys his toy. It is your job to keep everyone safe. Everything belongs to the true leader of the pack. If a dog is claiming anything as his own, it is usually a lack of respect for the leader. Relationship is a balance of love, trust, and respect. This is not about dominating your dog, but about being a thoughtful, responsible dog owner. The leader always has the best interests of his pack at heart, and a well-mannered pack is a safe and happy pack. Love Them and Lead Them.
About the Trainers: Doug and Elizabeth Simpson have worked with animals all of their lives and are thrilled to share their knowledge and understanding of dogs with their people. With 30 years of experience their methods are tried and true. They attribute this to good socialization, fair and consistent training and lots of love. Tenderfoot Training www.tenderfoottraining.com (303) 444-7780
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 123
T Training
FOOD AGGRESSION
Getting a Grip on Food Aggression By Doug and Elizabeth Simpson Owners of Tenderfoot Training
D
oes your dog get too excited when you are preparing his food? Does he dive into his bowl and protect it from intruders? Are you able to pick up his bowl, mid-meal, and take it from him? For that matter, can you even get near his bowl? A dog who trusts and respects his person should be calm when you approach his bowl and he should willingly back away from it as you go to pick it up. Ah, the good life. The best way to teach a dog about food manners is to set him up for success in the first place. While preparing his food, you need to claim the space around you. You wouldn’t want your dinner guests crowding you as you try to prepare their meal, so you shouldn’t let your dog do it either. He should not jump up, bark at you, or press into your legs. You can ‘shoo’ him out of the room or just out of your way, and give it a word like “out” to reinforce it. This is a subtle way to claim your space; if the dog respects you then he should back away. Now that your dog is calm and out of your way, you can prepare his food. If he creeps back in then ‘out’ he goes again. Dogs will typically only challenge you 3-5 times if you are clear and consistent. Prepare his food in a calm manner; do not succumb to his whining or intense energy. He should not get rewarded for demanding his meal from you. This is your food and you will share it with
him when he is calm and has good manners. But if his energy says “FEED ME NOW!” just be patient until he calms down and he will quickly learn that calmness wins. When the meal is ready, and he is behaving calmly, you can go ahead and feed him. Face your dog with the food bowl in both hands at your stomach level. Invite your dog in to “sit” in front of you and “stay.” Only when your dog is sitting calmly can you release him with a direction like “let’s eat,” and then you may lower the food just low enough so he can eat—keeping your hands on the bowl. In 5-10 seconds, or if he begins to act agitated, pick the bowl up without delay and add a word of association like “enough.” Wait until the dog is calm and sitting before you offer the bowl again for just a few seconds. Repeat the same routine until the dog can calmly eat for longer periods of time without getting agitated or possessive. After a few feedings like this, you would then hold the food bowl on the ground and practice “let’s eat” and “enough.” Then you can start to take your hands away for short periods of time (1-2 seconds) and continue practicing the drill, adding more and more time that your hands are off of the bowl. You can use a leash on the dog for control, and pull him away from the food if needed and start again. Begin to add some distance and eventually walk
124 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
away, then come back and reclaim the bowl. You are desensitizing the dog to your approach and you have already taught him to accept your taking the bowl away, so you should be good to go. However, the longer a dog has the bowl, the more likely he is to try to claim it as his, so you might have to go back a step or two and work with short, 5-10 seconds intervals again. You could also set him up for a pleasant surprise by walking by and tossing a tasty morsel into his bowl. Approach him with a treat in your hand, say his name to get him to look up, and wave the treat in front of his nose so he catches the scent. Pick up the bowl, add the treat, and offer him the bowl again. This creates a positive association with you approaching and picking up his bowl. Your energy should say that you own the room, the food, and the bowl, and you only share it with a good, calm dog. Remember, if a dog claims his food, space, or things, it is usually a lack of respect for you. A balanced relationship is a balance of love, trust, and respect. It is always the person’s responsibility to ensure their dog has good manners, and that only comes with time well spent training, socializing, and setting clear boundaries.
For more information visit www.tenderfoottraining.com
T
Training
DOG AGGRESSION
Overcoming Dog-on-Dog Aggression By Michael Wombacher
C
anine sibling rivalry—two dogs not getting along in the same household—is one of the most difficult to resolve dog-ondog aggression issues. I found this out early on in my training career when, 16 years ago, I walked into a client’s home to be greeted by a bloodbath. The minute I walked in, the two Australian Shepherds who were greeting me turned on each other with a vengeance, and nearly killed each other. Since then I have discovered that, at best, the chances of turning this behavior around—if it is severe—are 50/50. The worst cases of sibling rivalry occur between spayed females who, given the right circumstances, will kill each other. That said, let us turn our attention to how to approach the resolution of this issue and end up on the positive side of the 50/50 equation. If you are experiencing this issue, there are a number of things that need to be implemented simultaneously. First, you need to establish your role as leader in the social structure. That involves implementing what is commonly called a “rank management” program and includes such things as demanding a command from the dogs for each interaction you have with them (learn to earn); spending significant amounts of time ignoring them and then, only in exchange for commands, giving them structured attention; generally maintaining a high level of obedience; eliminating furniture rights; teaching the dogs self-control at the front door and a number of other items. Becoming “pack leader” in this fashion is the absolute foundation of having the
slightest prayer of reliably resolving this kind of aggression because you, as the pack leader, have the right to control conflict in the group—something dogs innately understand.
toward the lower-ranking dog, he or she should be reprimanded also. Remember, you, as the pack leader, have the right to control conflict in the group.
As you are implementing this you also need to determine which of the two dogs is more naturally the dominant one over the other. This can be difficult, as the dogs might display dominant or submissive behaviors differently in varying situations. However, there are a few things to look for: In the fights, who usually comes out the winner? Does one dog often prevent the other from entering or leaving a room? Does one dog routinely steal the other dog’s toys, food, etc.? Does one dog move out of the way for the other dog?
Now, this is a bare-bones outline and there is more to it, as this is an incredibly complex issue, but that is the foundation for building a mutually respectful relationship between dogs. However, that said, we must consider the general environment within which the dogs will be living once we start implementing this. What I have found over the years is that committed owners can arrange the social environment in such a way that conflict is minimized or even eliminated. However, often the general atmosphere in the house is little better than a political détente with a constant, generalized sense tension in the background. The dogs are tolerating each other but that’s it.
Once you have determined the right pecking order it is absolutely crucial that you treat the more dominant dog preferentially in such a way that both dogs know it. That means that dog gets the first petting, the first food or treats, is the first out the door, and so on. It doesn’t mean that you ignore the other dog, just that the top dog gets preference. This can be very difficult since we often prefer the “underdog” for a variety of reasons. However, treating the underdog preferentially will only perpetuate the problem—I guarantee it. Once this is accomplished you want to begin to reprimand the lower-ranking dog for any dominant overtures toward the higher-ranking dog. That is, you, the pack leader, are supporting the natural relationship between the dogs. Similarly, should the dominant dog make excessive, bullying overtures
In that case, I often encourage owners to consider re-homing one of the dogs for everyone’s benefit. The background tension of the constant threat of violence is an enormous, ongoing source of stress both for the dogs and the owners. No one is truly happy. In such cases both dogs are tremendously relieved to be free of each other. The only one with an emotional price to pay is usually and understandably the owners. In such cases, we truly have to consider the best for everyone and pay the emotional price, if necessary.
For more information or to contact: Michael Wombacher www.doggonegood.org email: mike@doggonegood.org
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 125
T Training What about
Human Aggression?
By Brett Titus S.W.A.T /K9 Handler & Trainer Denver Police Department
T
he dog is one of the most amazing creatures in the world. The unconditional love and companionship of dogs is unmatched by any comparison. Like anything managed by Mother Nature, they do come with faults. One of the greatest of these faults is the unwarranted aggression toward humans. Oftentimes we attribute this behavior to abuse, especially when it's an adopted dog. But that is not always the case. This is evident when we look at dogs that have been raised from puppyhood in a great home and the same behaviors occur. Abuse can create these problems, but more often than not, it’s Mother Nature. When it is abuse and we know it for fact, the problem can be more easily dealt with. A Mother Naturegiven problem can result in a serious lifestyle change. Whichever the root cause is, I always advise pet owners that it is NEVER cured. Once the dog has shown pronounced aggression behavior, it must always be managed. To understand what is a pronounced aggression problem, we have to look at the incident individually. A growl is simply a warning. If a dog growls at a person, we have to look at the circumstance. For example, If a stranger approaches and the dog growls and you get a weird vibe as well, that may be OK. Dogs are good judges of people. If the growl occurred during feeding or over a toy, that may be food aggression or a dominance issue, and needs to be dealt with in a different manner. If a bite occurs, what was the circumstance? Also, with a bite, you
have to determine if it was committed or not. There is a significant difference between a nip and a full bite. If a sleeping dog was stepped on and felt pain, a bite reaction may be acceptable. These are some of the variables that each and every dog owner should look at before a decision is made on the level of aggression their dog may have. Always refer to a dog training expert before you decide what course to take.
the position where it is able to bite someone. This may open you up to a lot of heartache. At minimum, you may be disappointed. The worst case is you will face legal matters over a dog bite. A dog with aggression problems needs you and only you. To put the dog in uncomfortable situations is not healthy. Your dog may be trying to tell you something, such as he doesn't like other people, so don't force him to try.
Let me share a few tips to help deal with an aggression problem. First, determine whether your dog has an aggression problem, then understand that it is forever and don't be fooled into thinking it's fixed. If any trainer gives you a guarantee that the problem will be fixed, walk away as fast as you can. To call the problem fixed gives the wrong impression. The problem can be managed but never fixed. To actually fix a problem, you have to show proofing.
No matter what the problem your dog may have, taking a good training class will solve most issues. By communicating with dogs through training, they will become happier, better-behaved pets.
To proof an aggression problem, you have to test the waters. To do this, you will put someone at risk of injur y. The only way to see if the problem is fixed is to put the dog in
126 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
For more information visit www.tacdogs.com
SUBSCRIBE TODAY!
The American Dog Magazine is published quarterly in the spring, summer,
fall and winter. Subscribe today and save 17% off the newsstand price of $5.95 when you subscribe for one year! ____ one-year subscription $20.00 Name __________________________________ Phone _____________________ Address_____________________________ City/St/Zip _____________________ Email ______________________________ Signature _______________________ Credit card # _________-_________-_________-________ exp. date __________ Billing address for credit card __________________________________________ YOU CAN SUBSCRIBE ONLINE (www.theamericandogmag.com) OR MAIL THIS FORM IN Mail to: The Dog Publishing, LLC 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd., Suite #136, Centennial, CO 80015
check payable to: The Dog Publishing, LLC
Total Amount Due: __________
Order The American Dog Magazine for your friends! Please send a one-year subscription to: Name __________________________________________ Address ________________________________________ City, State, Zip ___________________________________ Name __________________________________________ Address ________________________________________ City, State, Zip ___________________________________ Name __________________________________________ Address ________________________________________ City, State, Zip ___________________________________ TOTAL AMOUNT DUE:___________________________ ** YOUR first subscription will start with the subsequent issue on newsstands now. ( For example, the summer issue is on sale now. When you subscribe, your first magazine will start with the fall issue on newsstands August 1st, 2010.)
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE TODAY! www.theamericandogmag.com The Dog Publishing • 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd., Suite #B-136, Centennial, CO 80015
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 127
D Dog Law
HELP!
How do I get my dog back?
When couples break up, who gets the dog? By Anna Morrison-Ricordati Attorney at Law
Y
ou arrive home to find the extra set of keys on the countertop, next to the handscrawled note detailing why things never really would have worked between you two. Half of the dinnerware is gone, along with
128 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
the CD collection and the flat-screen TV. Even your favorite chair is missing. While you ponder the single life, a sinking feeling sets in. Silence has replaced the evening’s familiar, acknowledging
“
Replevin can be an extremely useful tool to quickly recover a dog that was wrongfully taken from you.
woofs, no nails are tapping across the hardwood floor, and Mr. Bigsby—a favored and well-worn squeaky toy— has not been dropped at your feet... Where is Buddy? A bad breakup is not the only time a dog owner may be placed in a situation where his/her dog is being wrongfully withheld by another person. Similar situations have occurred where the finder of a lost dog has refused its return, and in cases where a dog has been stolen and resold to an unwitting purchaser. Here the rightful owner cannot simply take his/her property back without committing a trespass or other potentially illegal act. In these situations, obtaining a “writ of replevin” may be the best option. Replevin is a legal remedy to recover specific personal property. Replevin actions are limited in that they require the rightful owner to know the whereabouts of the specific property. However, where a typical civil lawsuit can take years, replevin affords a speedy process, sometimes taking only weeks to obtain judgment. For dog owners, replevin is a common, though lesser-known, civil court action that takes advantage of the property status of companion animals. Replevin actions can be filed in two ways: (1) by seeking immediate possession of the disputed property, or (2) by seeking a hearing to adjudicate the final rights of the parties. If immediate possession is sought, a bond—usually double the value of the property—must be posted to protect the defending party against a wrongful action by the party claiming true ownership. Also, where the rights of the party claiming true ownership
“
could be harmed by alerting the party in possession of the disputed property, a judge may issue a “replevin without notice.” Where the disputed property is a dog, this means the judge will order a sheriff to enter the home of the party accused of wrongfully withholding the dog—without first notifying him/ her—to return the dog to the party claiming true ownership.
Replevin can be an extremely useful tool to quickly recover a dog that was wrongfully taken from you. If faced with this type of situation, don’t make a bad situation worse by taking matters into your own hands. File a writ of replevin and get your dog back legally.
For a “replevin without notice,” valid concerns must exist to merit such drastic action, such as:
Pet custody battles are becoming more common, so if you feel that the family dog should remain with you in the event of a breakup or divorce, be prepared, and make sure you are able to prove—with receipts in your name only—that you are the one who takes the dog to the vet, the groomer's, or daycare, and that your name is listed as the dog's owner. Also, if you adopt a dog together, try to have the dog registered in just your name, since you will be the primary caregiver. It will be important to prove that you are the one who walks the dog and takes care of the dog if a legal battle crops up in the future over custody of the four-legged kid(s).
•D estruction or concealment of the disputed property; •R emoval of the disputed property from the state; •H arm resulting from the perishable nature of the disputed property; •S ale or transfer of the disputed property to another; or •T he disputed property obtained by theft.
was
Further, the party seeking “replevin without notice” must be willing to sign a sworn affidavit detailing his/her rights to ownership and the basis for his/her valid concerns. Even if a party is successful in obtaining possession of the dog, the ultimate ownership rights will be determined at a hearing or trial. There, the rightful dog owner must present proof of ownership, such as would be found in purchase or adoption receipts, microchip registration documents, veterinary records, and proof of living arrangements or other care provided for the dog by the person claiming ownership.
Editor’s note:
For more information, or to contact the author: Anna E. Morrison-Ricordati AMR Law Group, LLC 111. W. Washington St. Ste #1760 Chicago, Illinois 60602 www.amrlawgroup.com (312) 376-7660 Email: anna@amrlawgroup.com
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 129
Low Cost Spay & Neuter Services Are Offered Nationwide Be a responsible dog parent and have your dog fixed! The American Dog reports
T
here are many reasons to have your dog neutered or spayed. Your female dog will live a healthier, longer life because you’ll lower her risk of breast cancer and avoid any unwanted litters of puppies. Neutering your male dog will lessen his urge to roam or fight, and will also greatly reduce his chances of getting testicular cancer. Please call your local animal shelter to inquire about low-cost sterilization services. Many animal shelters offer reduced or subsidized prices for spaying and neutering, as well as vaccinations at a discounted price. There are also mobile spay/neuter clinics that will set up shop in a neighborhood for the day to make it convenient and affordable for dog and cat owners. Contact SPAY/USA and visit the group's Web site which says, “SPAY/USA has over 1,000 sterilization programs and clinics nationwide with 7,000 excellent veterinarians in the network. Our goal is to make spay/neuter services affordable to those who might not otherwise spay/neuter their pets. By working together, we hope to popularize and facilitate spay/neuter services throughout the country and end pet overpopulation.” SPAY/USA can be reached at their toll-free number 1(800) 248-SPAY (1-800-248-7729) or www.spayusa.org.
Other web sites that offer information about low-cost spay/neuter: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/spayneuter/ http://www.petsandanimals.org/spayneuter_services.html http://www.lovethatcat.com/spayneuter.html#nationwide http://www.spayusa.org/
130 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
You can also Google “low cost spay & neuter” in your state for additional clinics that provide this service. Help end pet overpopulation and make sure your dog is part of the solution and not contributing to the problem of 5 million pets being euthanized every year because there aren’t enough homes for them.
Do you Need Help with Veterinary Bills to Save your Pet’s Life? Here is a list of organizations that provide financial assistance Visit their Web site to see if you qualify and meet their criteria American Animal Hospital Assoc.
www.aahahelpingpets.org
Angels for Animals
www.angels4animals.org
Brown Dog Foundation
www.browndogfoundation.org
Canine Cancer Awareness
www.caninecancerawareness.org
Care Credit
www.carecredit.com
Cats In Crisis
www.catsincrisis.org
Cody's Club (radiation treatments)
www.codysclub.bravehost.com
Diabetic Pets Fund
www.petdiabetes.net/fund/
Feline Outreach:
www.felineoutreach.org
Feline Vet Emergency Asst. Program
www.fveap.org
God's Creatures Veterinary Charity
www.allcreatures.org/gcm/help-cf.html
Good Sam Fund
www.goodsamfund.org
Help-A-Pet
www. help-a-pet.org
Land of Pure Gold Foundation
www.landofpuregold.com
In Memory of Magic
www.IMOM.org
New York Save
www.nysave.org
Pigger’s Pals
www.piggerspals.org
Shakespeare Animal Fund
www.shakespeareanimalfund.org
The Binky Foundation
www.binkyfoundation.org
The Magic Bullet Fund (cancer)
www.themagicbulletfund.org
The Mosby Foundation
www.themosbyfoundation.org
The Perseus Foundation (cancer)
www.PerseusFoundation.org
The Pet Fund
www.thepetfund.com
United Animal Nations LifeLine Fund
www.uan.org
Many local humane societies offer low cost veterinary services and breed rescue groups may be able to offer assistance with medical bills. You can also check with national animal welfare organizations for additional information. Alley Cat Allies
www.alleycat.org
American Humane Association
www.americanhumane.org
American Society Prevention Cruelty to Animals
www.aspca.org
Best Friends Animal Society
www.bestfriends.org
Humane Society of the United States
www.hsus.org
Petco Foundation
www.petcofoundation.org
Petsmart Charities
www.petsmartcharities.org
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 131
Effects Of
MANDATORY Spay/Neuter Laws By Bett Sundermeyer President of No Kill Houston www.nokillhouston.org
I
am responding to the article, “Spay and Neuter Laws; Humans Debate While Dogs Die” in the spring 2010 issue of The American Dog, and would like to provide updated information regarding the effects of Mandatory Spay/Neuter Laws (“MSNL”) on shelter killings of dogs and cats. MSNL have been in effect in various communities for some time, so we now
have ample opportunity to ascertain whether they reduce shelter killing. When we research these communities, we find that while increased voluntary sterilization does help reduce the number of animals entering shelters, MSNL do not decrease the number of animals entering or being killed in shelters. MSNL have backfired. In fact, MSNL have resulted in more
132 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
abandoned animals, higher shelter admissions, higher kill rates, lower compliance with licensing and rabies vaccination laws, and radically increased costs for animal control. People become afraid to get pet licenses because proof of sterilization is required. They are afraid to go to a veterinarian for rabies shots or medical care because veterinarians are required to report them. People
abandon their pets because they fear fines and penalties. Numerous studies have shown that the primary reason people do not sterilize their pets is cost. For example, a study conducted by Harris Interactive for Alley Cat Allies, and published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, confirmed that the single most influential predictor of whether a cat is sterilized is the income level of his/her owner. In addition, in May 2009, PetsMart released a study that again confirmed that cost is the primary reason people do spay/neuter. Furthermore, a study conducted by the Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences at Texas A&M University and published in Preventive Veterinary Medicine in January 2010, again found that cost was the number one reason for not sterilizing pets. Some people simply cannot afford the costs and passing MSNL will not change this fact. When the result of not sterilizing is an unaffordable fine or confiscation/ impoundment of the pet, animals die. The Harris Interactive study also found that more than 80 percent of owned cats in the U.S. are already sterilized. This means that the majority of unsterilized cats are unowned strays. MSNL would do nothing to increase the sterilization of unowned cats and would not reduce their deaths in shelters. In fact, MSNL would increase the killing of unowned cats, particularly feral cats, because many shelters automatically kill all feral cats, or any cat that vaguely acts feral (shy or scared cats). Also, MSNL are a nightmare to enforce. They burden already underfunded, understaffed animal control departments with more responsibilities. Each community must hire more animal control officers to enforce them, so an enormous amount of additional money is spent to enforce a draconian law when a much better use of those funds would be to provide low-cost or free spay/neuter services. MSNL would also give animal control officers the right to go door to door and force us to prove that our pet(s) are
sterilized. (I’m not being facetious; a Houston city leader actually suggested this, and Houston doesn’t even have MSNL.) Also, it is not always easily discernible whether female pets are sterilized. If citizens can’t prove that a female pet is spayed, MSNL could give authority to animal control to confiscate that pet. Then what? Take her to animal control, cut her open to confirm she is sterilized, and impound her if she is not? What happens when the owner can’t afford the impound fees, which are many times quite steep? What happens when the owner can’t afford to have the pet spayed at that time? This would mean that a pet, who already has a home, would be impounded and killed because the owner couldn’t afford to spay his/her pet or couldn’t afford the impound fines. This is an appalling and ludicrous scenario, but it is exactly what MSNL would authorize. When MSNL were proposed in Los Angeles, and these laws were passed in February 2008, the statistics show that, immediately after passing MSNL, kill rates began to rise in L.A. Before the passing of MSNL, the kill rate had been steadily declining because of city funded programs providing affordable spay/neuter services and incentives to sterilize pets. But after MSNL were passed, for the first time in a decade, impounds and killing increased; dog deaths increased 24 percent and cat deaths increased 35 percent. Los Angeles County now kills 22 times as many animals as Lake County, CA; and kills 104 times as many animals as Calgary, Canada per capita; both of which do not have MSNL. Even if readers are not convinced that the data proves that MSNL have caused kill rates to rise, let’s admit that considering the above statistics, there is at least a 50/50 chance that they do. There is still no reason to pass MSNL because successful no kill shelters have stopped the killing without these laws. For example, Reno, Nevada (Washoe
Co.) is saving 93 percent of dogs and 89 percent of cats. This is despite having a per capita intake rate over two times the national average. (Reno has also been hit much harder by the economic downturn than L.A., where kill rates are rising. Even though the author claimed that the economic downturn has caused kill rates to rise in L.A., clearly this isn’t the correct explanation.) The CharlottesvilleAlbemarle SPCA has a save rate of 92 percent; Tompkins Co., NY SPCA has a save rate of approximately 95 percent; The San Francisco SPCA had a save rate of roughly 97 percent in 2008; In Montgomery Co. TX shelter killing declined to 18 percent in 2009; and in Calgary, Canada, all healthy and treatable pets that enter their shelter are saved. All of these shelters dropped their kill rates without MSNL. In my opinion, it is obvious that mandatory spay/neuter laws are not a factor that helps to stop the killing in shelters. So why would any animal lover want to risk even a 50/50 chance of raising kill rates by passing MSNL when communities have stopped the killing without them? I urge everyone to research this issue thoroughly. MSNL have caused kill rates to rise and we do not have to repeat the failures of other communities. To stop shelter killing we really have but one choice and that is to adopt the only method that has been proven to work; the No Kill model of sheltering based on the No Kill Equation.
For more information please visit www.nokillhouston.org
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 133
Bedtime Books/DVD’s All books reviewed by Nancy Allen
Tales of Lovable Spike By Sandra Abu-Bakr This children’s book for the pre-teen set features Spike “the prankster” getting into and out of all kinds of mischief and exciting adventures. He is smart, cunning, and, yes, lovable. His antics entice children to want to read more about him and to laugh hilariously at his many bold and daring undertakings. This is a great book that children will have a hard time putting down.
Tea and Dog Biscuits By Barrie Hawkins Anyone who’s rescued a dog will especially appreciate this true story of a couple taking on the challenge of rescuing and fostering mostly German Shepherd dogs; it answers the often-asked question, “Why help dogs instead of people?” The couple refuses to turn away any dogs that come to them for help, and their devotion, caring, and amusement at what happens will resonate with animal lovers everywhere. Hopefully, after reading their story book, more people will opt to rescue or foster man’s best friend.
Every Dog has a Gift By Rachel McPherson This wonderful, heartwarming book tells true stories about “the hope and healing” that therapy dogs bring to people who suffer from various ailments. Humans who bond with dogs can overcome many problems, and McPherson’s book not only demonstrates this, but also shows us how we can get involved by volunteering with dogs in our own communities. It also encourages us to adopt shelter dogs and help rescue them so they can perform this important work with us.
The Happy Adopted Dog By Tammy Gagne and Wayne Hunthausen, DVM The authors offer valuable advice to anyone interested in adopting a lifetime pal. To successfully adopt a dog that is the right one for you requires knowing your own situation as well as the dog’s lifestyle needs. This book covers reasons to adopt, where to adopt, how to prepare for a new dog, the training your dog will benefit from, dealing with various behaviors, and much more. It will help you choose a dog to become your lifelong companion.
134 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
Gotta Love Dogs! Photos by Silvia Lualdi Adorable, enchanting pictures of dogs are this book’s draw. The four-footed models’ “hilarious canine conduct,” captured in beautiful photographs, will have you smiling, laughing, or just realizing why the dog is the “world’s most affectionate creature.” This is great book to share with kids!
Healing Companions By Jane Miller, LISW, CDBC For anyone contemplating getting a psychiatric service dog for themselves or someone they know, this is a must-buy book. It covers how to get a service dog, what s/he can do, what kind of dog is best for this work, plus real-life success stories. This book will truly help many people in acquiring a psychiatric service dog, and can literally help change someone’s life for the better.
Kids Pet Farms: Puppy Luv Presented by Dayna Reed Puppy Luv is part of the Kids Pet Farm’s series of exciting and entertaining videos shot in HD, this DVD (also available in Blu-ray) features rescued animals filmed in their natural environment. All the baby animals were adopted into loving homes, and partial proceeds from each DVD are donated to local area shelters. Kids Pet Farm encourages the adoption of rescued animals of all species; check out their other titles showcasing kitties, alpacas, lambs, fishies, and goats!
Imagine Life With A Well-Behaved Dog By Julie A. Bjelland The author gives explicit, positive advice on tackling any problem you may have with your dog. Bjelland tells you how to change your communication with your dog so that you will have “stress-free, unconditional love for years to come.” She also has a web site so you can contact her, and donates a portion of her profits to help dogs. This is a must- read book that can help your dog as well as other deserving canines.
The American Dog Magazine | Summer 2010 135
$$$$$$$
A RE YO U READY TO B E A N E NT REP REN EU R A ND L IVE TH E A MERI C AN D REA M ?
$$$$$$$$ Become a Successful Magazine Publisher Pre-release Specials at Fabulous Introductory Prices Start your own business as low as $18,000
The The The The The The The The The The The The The
Alaska Dog Arkansas Dog Arizona Dog California Dog Colorado Dog Delaware Dog Florida Dog Georgia Dog Hawaii Dog Idaho Dog Indiana Dog Illinois Dog Iowa Dog
The The The The The The The The The The The The The
Oklahoma Dog Oregon Dog Pennsylvania Dog Rhode Island Dog South Dakota Dog Tennessee Dog Texas Dog Utah Dog Virginia Dog Washington Dog West Virginia Dog Wisconsin Dog Wyoming Dog
The The The The The The The The The The The The The
FOR PRICES AND AVAILABILITY PLEASE VISIT
Kansas Dog Kentucky Dog Louisiana Dog Michigan Dog Minnesota Dog Mississippi Dog Missouri Dog Montana Dog Nebraska Dog Nevada Dog New Jersey Dog New Mexico Dog North Dakota Dog
w w w. t h e a me ri ca n dogm a g. com
Pi c k You r C it y or St a t e a nd Ow n a Dog Ma ga zine ! 2010 IS YOUR YEAR TO BE YOUR OWN BOSS
j En
oy
!
e s y a u Big Ho
l a loving fami
y!
Bu
In
lots of mone
ic t dulg o e in e x vacations!
riv ar e a l c uxury
D
The Alburquerque Dog The Atlanta Dog The Austin Dog The Carmel Dog The Charlotte Dog The Cleveland Dog The Columbus Dog The El Paso Dog The Lake Tahoe Dog The Las Vegas Dog The Long Beach Dog The Louisville Dog The Malibu Dog The Minneapolis Dog The Monterey Dog The Napa Valley Dog The Oakland Dog The Oklahoma City Dog The Orange County Dog The Palm Springs Dog The Raleigh Dog The Saramento Dog The Santa Barbara Dog The Tallahassee Dog The Tucson Dog
y!
Ma
ke
**Introductory price includes domain name, custom built web aite, all expense paid training course, attorney fees, everything you need to know and forgot to ask about running a successful magazine and making a profit! **Don’t see your city here, visit www.theamericandogmag.com for a list of 200+ state or cities available
!
IN THE 50 BILLION DOLLAR PET INDUSTRY!
1
Final Thought
There are many noble and deserving causes worth advocating for, especially those making a difference on behalf of innocent dogs. These canine victims have no voice and can’t defend themselves from animal abuse, cruelty and neglect—but you can raise your voice to help.
Support a Cause
* * * * * * * *
* Get Involved * Take Action * Make a Difference!
Shut down the horrific puppy mills that torture dogs and put them out of business for good! (If you would like to help contact www.caps-web.org) Protest and boycott pet stores selling puppies from unscrupulous mill breeders! (If you would like to help contact www.caps-web.org) Ban Greyhound racing nationwide; these dogs are literally forced to run for their lives! (If you would like to help contact www.grey2kusa.org) Make it illegal to chain dogs; these poor animals live a life of misery at the end of a chain! (If you would like to help contact www.dogsdeservebetter.org) Crack down on dogfighting and report it when you see it. The HSUS offers a $5000 reward! (If you would like more information visit www.humanesociety.org) Demand change to end the brutal gassing of dogs to death in gas chambers; it still happens at many shelters across this country! (Just Google “Dr. Ralph Houser” who manufactures and sells the gas chambers) Support “no-kill” animal shelters that go the extra mile to save dogs' lives! (Does your local animal shelter have a network of volunteers and foster families? If not, start one to help out!) As Americans, we all need to be outraged that 5+ million pets are being euthanized every year! (Why is this allowed to happen, and how and when will the senseless killing end? )
Please spay or neuter your pets and be a responsible parent! 138 Summer 2010 | The American Dog Magazine
MADE IN THE USA t 8IFFMJOH *- 64"
Grain Free Since 1935! 4JODF &WBOHFS T %PH BOE $BU 'PPE $PNQBOZ IBT CFFO BO JOOPWBUPS PG QFU OVUSJUJPO 8F TQFDJBMJ[F JO HSBJO GSFF EJOOFST IBOE QBDLFE EJOOFST XIPMF NFBU USFBUT BOE B XJEF WBSJFUZ PG OPWFM QSPUFJO TPVSDFT 5P ëOE PVU NPSF BCPVU &WBOHFS T %PH BOE $BU 'PPE $PNQBOZ BOE UP ëOE B SFUBJMFS OFBS ZPV WJTJU XXX FWBOHFSTEPHGPPE DPN