American Dog Magazine Summer 2012 by The American Dog Magazine

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Genesis Revisited Many of the past Solid Gold articles talked about our new dog food, Solid Gold SunDancer dry dog food with curcumin and chia to control gas, also tapioca and quinoa, SunDancer has no grains and no gluten. Today’s focus is on our Solid Gold SeaMeal powder supplement, which has 19 types of sea vegetation, and only one type of kelp. Dogs are 11% trace minerals and only 4% vitamins. Without the trace minerals the vitamins don’t work. SeaMeal activates the hormone, enzymes and immune systems of the body. These systems grow coats, help with tear staining, for ear infections, help to prevent allergies, and aid in preventing bladder stones. SeaMeal is especially for Oriental and Arctic dogs and dogs developed in England, Scotland and Ireland for hundreds of years, (Terriers, Spaniels, retrievers, water dogs, poodles, white, near white and light colored dogs). If you don’t feed a fish-based dog food and sea vegetation to these types of dogs, you are not supporting the DNA of the body and you will have problems. We used to import our kelp from Norway. But in1985, the Russian nuclear disaster at Chernobyl spread. Now, we get our kelp from New Zealand. When a dog is eating allergic dog food, his front legs may become inflamed and this acid condition causes his feet to swell and burn. He licks his feet because saliva is an alkali. An acid-based ingredient is white rice (listed as rice). Solid Gold uses brown rice, an alkali. Other acid ingredients are corn, wheat, soybeans, sugar beet pulp (companies forget to list it as sugar), and peanuts or peanut butter. Solid Gold doesn’t use these acids. These acids may cause a normal dog’s cells to become abnormal and produce malignant cellulose cells that do not correspond with the immune system and may cause leukemia or cancer. Excess acidity in the blood causes white cells to increase and red cells to decrease - causing liver disease, kidney disease, epilepsy and diabetes. Arthritis may also occur. See book by Herman Aihara, Acid / Alkali Balance of the Well-being Ranch in Harper, TX. All of our Solid Gold dog foods are fish-based. Fish is the best food for people and dogs. Big fish eat smaller fish, which eat little fish, which feed upon sea algae. Algae color is very important. The red algae supports the blood circulation and immune system. During the Japanese tsunami/ radiation disaster, the U.S. sent tons of red sea algae to Japan. Brown algae is for bones and the support system. Green algae with chlorophyll makes healthy new cells and lungs. Blue/Green algae can be a mixed blessing. Some are good, but others grow so fast that it clogs up waterways, so that the ships can’t get through. Now for GENESIS REVISITED Prior to Noah’s Ark, people lived to be 900 years or more. Adam lived to be 903 years, Enoch 905 years (see foot note about Enoch), Cain 910, Methuselah 969 and Noah 950. After God brought the flood to destroy mankind, except for Noah and his family, mankind died at a younger age. After the flood, the waters receded with an almost total erosion of the earth’s crust. This in turn, washed the mineral rich top surfaces to the bottom of the ocean, which became fish food algae. By taking away the minerals, man’s life was dramatically shortened. You can replace your dog’s shortage of minerals with Solid Gold SeaMeal. People ask us why we don’t put the SeaMeal in with our SunDancer and other dog foods. We mix pro biotic digestive enzymes with our SeaMeal. Probiotics are killed at 120˚. Dog food is cooked at around 300˚. All the digesters would be destroyed. Other dog food companies list lines of probiotics in their ingredients lists. Guess they didn’t do their homework. Why are you paying for something you are not getting. These companies may say that they lower the temperatures and spray the enzymes on. Don’t believe it! When you lower the temperature, the oils cool and don’t hold the trace minerals and enzymes. How do we know? Because we tried it. If it didn’t work for us, it doesn’t work for them. Now for the Story In 325 AD, the Council of Churches met on the island of Nicea and threw out 67 books of the Bible - including Adam Part I and Part II. They left in Genesis, but threw out Enoch I and II, Jubilee, etc. In the New Testament, they threw out the books of Philip, Thomas, Judah and the five books of Mary. When the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, the missing books were found. Ask your local pet store for a free catalogue. If they don’t have a SunDancer catalogue, call us at (619)258-7356, M-F, 10am to 5pm Pacific time. Or e-mail us at sarah@solidgoldholistic.com. You can also visit our website at www.solidgoldholistic.com.

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Summer 2012 VOLUME 5, ISSUE 2

8 Pit Bull Advocates 12 Dogs in Love 16 Cover Story Dogs who love going to work!

17 TN Safety Spotters 18 Fire Safety Dogs 20 Piper Stone The Painting Bulldog

22 24 26 27

Elle The Pit Bull Ecco D’Oro Rufio Ricardo Denali The Dog

28 Zoey Says Stick It To Canine Cancer

30 34 36

In the Dog’s Kitchen Favorite Sticks! Famous Dogs on Facebook

42 Role Model: Devotion AngelDogs Foundation

44 Role Model: Dedication Project: Snip-a-Pit

46 Role Model: Inspire Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue

50 Role Model: Compassion Pets Alive

Happy Birthday Emma! Photos by Emma's mama, Debra Jo, at her 5th birthday party! (www.emmazen.com)

4 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

Summer 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 2

Role Model: Passion Beagle Freedom Project

58 Favorite Watering Holes! 62 Working Dogs

Dogs on Patrol at U.S. Airports

64 Dr’s Corner: NSAID’s 66 Safety Check for Parasites

68 Training

Rehabilitating the Unsocialized Puppy

Health

The American Dog Magazine wants to give a big shout-out to Emma Zen Chiapuzio who just turned 5 years old!

Water

71 Wellness Plastic Bowls

72 Featured Author Michelle Sathe

74 Dog Parent Families Marcelle Lee

Michelle Weirich

76 Happily Ever After Tag-a-Roo

Parker’s Fan Club Popi’s Fan Club Elliott Hope Brodie American Dog Media | Summer 2012 5

founder / puBliSher

Jamie m downey

ediTor in chief

Jamie m downey

ediTorial direcTor arT direcTor creaTive direcTor Senior ediTor managing ediTor copy ediTor adverTiSing direcTor producTion coordinaTor

lauren wineBerg Kelly mayer michael anTone david revierTer caSey rodarBal deBorah JohnSon Jamie m downey Kim ThornTon

Social media direcTor

Jamie m downey

diSTriBuTion manager

John haddocK

BuSineSS manager SuBScripTion manager

ann JamiSon emma Brown

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: KaThryn dunlap, madalyn Kahn, chanell havenS, evoc phoTography, JeSSica STone, Kelly KaliSzewSKi, anne price-phoTography, angeldogS foundaTion, Jamie downey, paw prinTS charming peT phoTography, JoSh Bradley, peTS alive, cyndee arroyo, Kevin andrewS, KimBerly mocKler, nicK guginSKy, angel ciTy piT BullS, dan dry of power creaTive, naneTTe and aShley Bailey CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: KaThryn dunlap, madalyn Kahn, Kelly KaliSzewSKi, leah Brewer, amy hineS, dayna hilTon, paTricia BelT, JeSSica STone, liSa TipTon, alliSon Bowling, zach SKow, Kerry clair, Shannon KeiTh, Tamra monahn, dr. emily K.J. SachS, dr. ellioTT harvey, michelle SaThe, eve-marie KunTzman, naneTTe Bailey, KelSey weSTBrooK

HOW TO REACH US: The Dog Publishing, DBA: American Dog Media 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd. #B-136 Centennial, CO 80015 Phone: (303) 840-6111 (Colorado) info@theamericandogmag.com www.theamericandogmag.com For advertising Inquiries: Email to: advertise@theamericandogmag.com Letters to the editor/story ideas: Email to: editor@theamericandogmag.com Subscription rate is $20 per year within the United States and $50 per year for all foreign subscriptions. U.S. funds only. Subscriptions are non-refundable. Subscribe online: www.theamericandogmag.com

Subscribers: If the postal service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year. Email change of address to: subscribe@theamericandogmag.com Postmaster: Please forward change of address to: The Dog Publishing 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd. #B-136 Centennial, CO 80015 Copyright 2011/2012 No part of this publication may be reproduced without expressed written permission of the publisher. No part may be transmitted in any form by any means, including electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission from the publisher. Publisher accepts no liability for solicited or unsolicited materials that are damaged or lost. Views expressed by editorial contributors do not necessarily reďŹ&#x201A;ect the views of the publisher.

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

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PIT BULL AMBASSADORS

Gandhi "Is a celebrity on the Texas A&M campus where he frequently visits the classroom with me and the professors allow him off-leash to socialize, educate, and bring a 'good name' to his breed. He also visits my grandparent's senior community, is always around children, and everybody loves him!"

Willow Wonderbull "Willow leads a Pack Walk group every Sunday morning at local parks and venues called Pack Walk with Willow and Friends. She is somewhat of a local celebrity and can often be seen about town and at dog events dressed for the occasion. She has also won many awards!"

Captain Mike Riley "I rescued Mike from a shelter at 5 moths old, now he's 2 years old and is an Autism Service Dog for my 5 year old son. He is one of the most amazing dogs I have ever met and has become such an inspiration. Without Mike, my son would not be able to properly function and get through his day."

Duvall "Everyone who meets him falls in love. Duvall is a Canine Good Citizen and a Therapy Dog with Pet Partners/Delta Society. He is also incredibly patient with all the dogs that we have fostered and I take him wherever I can to show off what a great breed ambassador he is!"

8 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

"Riley assists in rehabilitating many pit bull type dogs with behavioral issues who would otherwise have been euthanized. He demonstrates remarkable self control and patience around each foster, and teaches them how to be a dog again."

Cash "Recognized in the Animal Rescue League of Iowa's Respons-I-Bull campaign, Cash has received his Canine Good Citizen award and is a certified Therapy dog. He is also going to be the cover dog of the 2013 For the Love of Pit Bulls calendar!"

PIT BULL AMBASSADORS

Mojo "I adopted Mojo from a high kill shelter in TN. He is the sweetest and most gentle dog I have ever met and he is now the mascot for my family's retail store. Many of the local residents know him by name and he even has fans that just come into the store to visit him. Mojo is working to get certified as a therapy dog."

Meatball "Meatball is now an AKC Canine Good Citizen, changing hearts and minds wherever he goes; coffee shops, farmers markets, garden centers, and dog-friendly places with outside patios. He also acts as a dog ambassador for the many pit bull fosters his family has helped find homes for in the past two years. "

Blake "Blake was used as a bait dog, dumped, and we adopted him in Jan 2012. In the 6 months we've had him, we take him to Plymouth Harbor all the time and walk him around town meeting as many people as we can. He amazes people with his beautiful, loving soul, and educates many about the breed."

Bella "Bella is the first certified Pit Bull therapy dog in southeast Teaxas and we are a team through ITA and the local Paws4love group. We visit local nursing homes and hospitals and are working towards R.E.A.D next year. Bella loves doing therapy work and is amazingly sensitive to everyone she meets."

K aya "Kaya has been my best friend for 15 years and she recently served as the "dog of honor" in my wedding. She is a certified Canine Good Citizen and a Therapy dog. Kaya exemplifies all that is good in the breed - affection, loyalty, love of children, tenacity, and good humor. Even at 15 and arthritic, she still follows me everywhere I go."

Audrey "Audrey is now a Canine Good Citizen, Delta Society Pet Partners Therapy Dog and a R.E.A.D. (Reading Education Assistance Dog). She is also the smiling mascot and inspiration for Angel City Pit Bulls non-profit rescue group created to educate, advocate, and celebrate pit bull dogs."

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 9

PIT BULL AMBASSADORS

Bandit "Bandit is a 1 year old Pit Bull. He is very sweet and loving to everything and everyone that crosses his path. He is amazing! He knows all kinds of things and is very obedient. He is starting training soon to become certified as a therapy dog for a children's hospital. Bandit is just an all-around sweet as can be dog!"

Sparkles "This is Sparkles, she was rescued along with her brother Tiger and Roxy. All 3 of our Pitties have been through training and are in the process of becoming therapy dogs. They also adore children, love people, and are socialized with other dogs to maintain their positive behavior and are great ambassadors for the breed."

Miss M & Mr. B Juliet "MostÂ people who have strong feelings against pit bulls, have never actually met a pit bull, so we've made it our mission to go around the city and allow people to meet our dogs. They go to parades, street festivals, Home Depot, and on daily walks - and are constantly helping to change minds about the breed!"

Sierra "Sierra doesn't have any special titles, but she is an ambassador for her breed because she is so gentle and loves every single person and will show it through her kisses. She truly loves children, especially our daughter Jordan, and we are the lucky ones to have found her as a stray over 11 years ago."

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

"We adopted Juliet and got her involved in the new sport of K9 Nose Work for the last 2 years. In that time, she passed her Level 1 test, took first place in her Level 2 test, and this week took second place in her Level 3 test becoming the first Pit Bull and 19th dog overall in the country to pass that level!"

Bella Vita "We took Bella Vita into our rescue (Modifiedk9.org) and since then she has become a very important part of the Modified K9 family. She is a mentor dog to all the new foster pups that come through our rescue, and her best friend is our 3 year old son Dylan and our hairless cat, Raisin Phoebe!"

DOGS IN LOvE

Bella & Buddy

Edward & Knuckles

Elle & Bruno

Rose & Knight

Moose & Jada

Gunner & foster pup Dinah

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

DOGS IN LOvE

Napoleon & Maggie

Clutch & Maxxis

Jamie & Dice

Riley & Brook

Dakota, Cooper & Dempsey

Logan & Sadie American Dog Media | Summer 2012

DOGS IN LOvE

Bear & Bandit

Havoc & Kimber

Titus & Hailey

Cali Lollipop & Spike Taylor

Juneau & Gunner Pugsy & Lucky 14

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

COvER STORy

Got a

RK O W L L I W ! D O O F R FO

JOB?

These wonderful and talented dogs have a job. . . and just love going to work!

Safety Spotters “Animal b TN Friends Teaching Children”

Fire Safety Dogs Featuring Siren and Tango

Featuring Lottie Dot and Izzy

b Piper Stone – The Painting Bulldog b b Ecco D’Oro b b Denali The Dog b 16

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

Elle the Pit Bull Ruﬁo Ricardo Fan Club Zoey Says Stick It To Canine Cancer

EXCEPTIONAL DOGS! TN SAFETy SPOTTERS â&#x20AC;&#x153;ANIMAL FRIENDS TEAChING ChILDRENâ&#x20AC;? feaTuring loTTie doT and izzy who are deaf Therapy dogS

PHoToS CourTESy oF SMAllWooD PHoTogrAPHy

PHoTo CourTESy oF Tn SAFETy SPoTTErS, inC.

By patricia Belt, founDer anD executive Director of tn Safety SpotterS, inc. (anD lottie Dot anD izzyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S mom!)

Both dogs are therapy dogs. Lottie Dot earned her CGC (Canine Good Citizen) certificate, but it took her 3 times to pass the therapy dog test, only because she couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hear me call her from a distance. After helping her learn to focus on me, she passed in 2006! Izzy received her CGC and passed her therapy dog test with excellent scores in April 2012. She recently started working at the VA Medical Center in Speech Pathology working with stroke patients. There are two types of therapy work Lottie Dot and Izzy do. Animal assisted activities (AAA) is a fun visit where kids or adults enjoy their time with the dogs and there are no set goals or care plan. For example, a meet and greet at the library or visiting a group of special needs kids to introduce dogs for the first time. Animal assisted therapy (AAT) has a desired goal, (thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what my dogs love doing). Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s getting an abused child talking or a Veteran just learning to use a wheelchair, there is a desired goal ordered by medical personnel or a Child Life Specialist. The Spotters love making a difference in the lives of so many and every visit is special.

Our volunteer educational and safety programs have grown tremendously. Educational programs in the rural areas of TN, MS, and AR are so important to lower the number of deaths and injuries of children from accidents. The smaller rural towns have little to offer in the safety education venue. Reaching these kids is our goal. Dog Bite Prevention Programs are used before most therapy visits with children. A child who has never petted a dog has to feel comfortable around them. So teaching how to properly pet, approach, and rules for safety can make or break a successful therapy visit. Be Fire Safe is one of our most popular programs. The dogs are the program! Whether we visit a fire station, school, museum, or special event, children keep focused and remember the rules of fire safety. Interactive programs keep the children focused and quiet. These dogs teach the rules for fire safety in a way that adults cannot. Stop, Drop and Roll, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Crawl Low Under Smoke,â&#x20AC;? Lottie Dot dials 9-1-1 and Izzy presses her smoke alarm button, are just a few of the rules that Izzy and Lottie Dot enjoy teaching.

Our newest and most popular safety program is our â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spot A Bullyâ&#x20AC;? program, an anti-bullying program. Using the Spotters as if they were children in a school situation, kids relate and learn what bullying is and what to do if approached by a bully. This program is fun but very educational. Using registered therapy dogs and TN Public Fire Safety Educators, the Spotters are welcomed in the public school system. Other programs we have available are our Bicycle Safety and R.E.A.D. Program. The Bicycle Safety Program is an interactive program teaching the kids 10 basic rules to keep safe while riding. The R.E.A.D. program helps children who have difficulty reading out loud. The dogs work with children who stutter, are dyslexic, or have been so abused they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t speak. I have seen miracles using this program through the years.

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For more information or to contact: Email at: inof@tnsafetyspotters.org Visit the Website at: www.tnsafetyspotters.org Become a fan on Facebook: www.facebook.com/DeafSpotter

American Dog Media | Summer 2012

AMAZING DOGS!

TANGO AND SIREN The Fire Safety Dogs, and Keep Kids Fire Safe® Foundation Offer Summer Safety Tips to help to keep your family safe ThiS SUMMER!

Photo by Anne Price-Photography and courtesy of the Keep Kids Fire Safe ® Foundation

By Firefighter Dayna Hilton, Executive Director, Keep Kids Fire Safe ® Foundation and a leading fire safety educator in the United States

Sparkles’ Summer Safety Tips Sparkles and her buddies, Tango and Siren, recommend leaving fireworks to the professionals. Attending public firework displays as an alternative to individually lighting fireworks is a great way to enjoy the holiday spirit, yet keep you and members of your family fire safe. That said, the Fire Safety Dogs understand that part of the American tradition for many families is to light their own fireworks. For those folks, the dogs recommend the following common sense safety tips from the United States Fire Administration. ; Before you begin, wet down the staging area with water. ; Make sure no combustibles or dry grass is in your staging area. ; Secure a bucket of water, a water hose handy, and a fire extinguisher before you begin lighting your fireworks. ; Always read and follow the instructions for each firework.

; C hildren should never light fireworks; that is the job of an adult! ; O nce a firework is lit, stand back! If it does not go off within a reasonable amount of time, put it out with your bucket of water or water hose. Never touch the device without first dousing it with water. Remember, safety first! ; F inally, adults should always keep a close eye on the children and the fireworks. Keeping fireworks stored safely away from the audience, including children, will keep everyone fire safe. Sparkles’ Fire Safety Skype Tour Just in time for the start of summer programs, the Fire Safety Dogs and the Keep Kids Fire Safe® Foundation is currently accepting applications for an innovative fire safety series, Sparkles’ Fire Safety Skype Tour. This free, interactive Skype activity teaches children important fire safety lessons and is open to summer camps, schools, and library programs across the country. It

18 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

is Skyped live from Sparkles’ Clubhouse in Clarksville, Arkansas, and made possible with funding from State Farm and First Alert as a fun, educational supplement to teachers’ daily lessons. Each week, the 30-minute program is designed to teach basic fire safety skills and features a real fire safety dog, sing-a-longs, the reading of a fire safety book, and the opportunity for children to become Junior Firefighters. Participating schools and camps also will receive a free, downloadable copy of the Sparkles’ Fire Safety Skype Tour coloring e-book and bonus materials. Keep Kids Fire Safe® Foundation aims to reduce the fire-related deaths and injuries among children. For more information visit www.keepkidsfiresafe.org.

For more information: Tango the Fire Safety Dog www.facebook.com/tangothefiresafetydog Siren the Fire Safety Dog www.facebook.com/sirenthefiresafetydog Fire Safety Dogs www.facebook.com/firesafetydogs

INCREDIBLE DOG!

PIPER STONE

THE PAINTING BULLDOG The one-eyed English Bulldog who paints with a brush for a good cause! By Jessica Stone, Abstract Painter and Piper’s mama

I never taught Piper how to paint. She expressed an interest in painting through a repeated behavior. Every time I painted, Piper ran into the studio, sat down, and stared at me painting. All I had to do was shake up a can of paint or clang palette knives and she would appear. It was the strangest thing. None of my other dogs had ever cared when I painted. The fact that Piper ran excitedly into the studio meant something wonderful was happening in her eyes because she is somewhat handicapped with a limp and bad hip dysplasia. The only other thing Piper runs for is food. She can barely walk a block, which is why she can be seen being pulled around in a kid’s wagon in her neighborhood. After six weeks of Piper being intrigued by me painting, I wondered if she had a desire to

paint and decided to put a paintbrush in her mouth. Her first attempt and painting “Introduction” was a success! Piper didn’t run away with the brush. She didn’t splatter paint everywhere. She just stayed in one place and worked her magic while I held paper in front of her. Piper’s technique is very basic and seems instinctual. I’ve heard that English Bulldogs are known for mimicking their parents. Maybe she is mimicking me? I don’t know what drives her. All I know is that she truly enjoys painting and it’s a great way for us to bond. Being a proud mother, I posted my canine artist’s first painting on facebook. Piper and her painting got a great response, so I dedicated a fan page just to Piper. I was curious if Piper could

20 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

paint to raise donations for rescues and mentioned that a percentage of her sales would be donated. Piper painted a couple of other pieces and sold a painting within the first week of being on facebook! At that point, I realized we might be on to something and she now has her own Etsy store and website. I was so excited and having so much fun with Piper that it was all I could talk about. Some people were just as thrilled and amazed as I was, but others thought I was a little crazy. Well, Piper the painting bulldog has sold over 120 paintings internationally in just seven months, which has allowed us to donate money and Piper products to rescue organizations. The painting bulldog even has clients in Australia, Denmark, Canada, and South Africa. She also has over 5,000 friends on Facebook.

INCREDIBLE DOG! Piper donates a portion of all of her sales to San Antonio Bulldog Rescue. Also, she has donated either original paintings, reproduction of paintings, or portraits of herself to help other rescue groups raise money through fundraising events and auctions. Treat Em’ Right Rescue, Collars for A Cause, Buddies Thru Bullies, American Bulldog Rescue, National Mill Dog Rescue, Detroit Bulldog Rescue, and Long Island Bulldog Rescue are some of these. It feels wonderful to be able to give back! So how were my husband and I lucky enough to adopt Piper? Well, that all began with our love for our Pit Bull Roxie. Roxie was deathly ill and displayed signs of abuse when we adopted her. She had pneumonia, parainfluenza, adenovirus, signs of surviving distemper, mange, mites, yeast infections in both ears, mild hip dysplasia, and cherry eye. Luckily, the fabulous doctors at Anderson Mill Animal Clinic and Emergency Animal Hospital of Northwest Austin saved Roxie’s life and she turned out to be the most affectionate

and loving creature. She is a sensitive dog with emotional issues who needs patience and understanding. A few years after Roxie was saved, I had the desire to adopt another special dog. My husband adores English bulldogs, so I searched bulldog rescue sites. When Teresa of San Antonio Bulldog Rescue read our application and what type of dog we hoped for, she called and said that she had a dog who she thought would be perfect for us. Teresa explained how Piper had one eye, bad hip dysplasia, a limp, and can be grumpy. She mentioned Piper was also sweet, precious, and would be a wonderful dog with patient parents. My husband, Roxie, and I drove to San Antonio that same day and fell in love with Piper! Piper was 8 years old and on the verge of having a heat stroke when surrendered to San Antonio Bulldog Rescue last summer. She wasn’t receiving medication to relive the pain in her hips. She had a skin infection. She startled easily and let you know it by growling and charging at you. Everyday, we work on gaining Piper’s trust and

showing her how to snuggle. We don’t think anyone ever showed her affection before Teresa took her in. Piper is a special needs dog who makes a difference though paint. She has been featured on the TV show Texas Country Reporter, KXAN news with Reporter Jim Swift, Dog Cast Radio, We Are Austin Live, and YNN News. This autumn, Piper’s artwork will be exhibited in Niza Knoll Gallery in Denver, August 17th to September 22nd, for a fundraising show called “Gone to the Dogs.” Also, she will have a VIP booth at the Texas Country Reporter Festival on October 27th. You can meet Piper in person at her Austin gallery where she shares the space with her sidekick and mother Jessica.

For more information or to contact: Visit Piper’s Website at: www.piperstoneartwork.com View mama Jessica’s Website at: www.jessicastoneartwork.com Email Piper at: piper@piperstoneartwork.com Become a fan on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/piperstoneartwork

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JESSICA STONE

The American American DogDog Magazine Media | Summer 2012 21

EXTRAORDINARY DOG!

ELLE

THE PIT BULL

AKC Canine Good Citizen, AKC Therapy Dog, and all-around amazing ambassador for the Pit Bull breed! By Leah Brewer (Elle’s mama!)

Elle became part of our family after the loss of Baron, our 15-year-old pit bull. I saw Elle’s picture on the Internet and wanted to provide her with a loving, forever home. She was a puppy in need of responsible pet parents, someone who would provide her with the best life possible. But, I had no idea my new four-legged friend would be the one helping me, and taking my life in a whole new direction.

Elle became a registered therapy dog in 2010. She always loved people, but one morning I witnessed something I will never forget. Before training classes she always got very excited about meeting new people and would sometimes jump on them. So one morning on our neighborhood walk we saw an elderly man who wanted to stop and chat. Before I realized it, he was standing really close to us while we were talking, and I looked

22 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

down at Elle in amazement, because she was just politely sitting there beside me. I didn't tell her to do that, it was like she knew to be respectful and not jump on him. That day changed our lives forever! Shortly thereafter, I took Elle to 4 classes to prepare her for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test, and after passing, we started training for the therapy dog test. Therapy Dogs Incor-

EXTRAORDINARY DOG!

Photos by Evoc Photography

porated evaluated us as a team, with a handling test and 3 observations at an Alzheimer's unit. We passed and were proudly recognized as a Pet Therapy Team with high marks from the evaluator who commented, "Natural team for visiting. Elle enjoyed meeting people, well-mannered, friendly, and very gentle with seniors." Elle works with children to help improve their reading skills at our public library and at an elementary school. The children really enjoy reading to Elle and she loves listening to a great story. She inspired "Tail Wagging Tales," a therapy dog reading program, and last year this program made a huge impact in a child’s life because he overcame his fear of dogs! She brings comfort and joy to the residents at a retirement home, and the staff are all smiles when we walk in the front door. Sometimes she visits the elderly, going room- to-room, and other times we sit with them in the television room. The ladies playing cards call Elle lady luck, because whoever she sits close to always wins. We regularly attend public events to educate the community about therapy dogs and families about dog safety, teaching them how to properly interact with a dog on a leash, and what to do if a loose dog approaches. Elle is the perfect assistant and teacher when I am speaking at schools by showing children ways to be safe around dogs.

The students will come up and demonstrate what they have learned by practicing with Elle. Teachers will tell me they learned a lot and how much they enjoyed us coming out. Elle loves her job so much and we make regular visits each week for her to make a difference in the lives of others. I was so excited this year to be asked to attend the Relay For Life with Elle. I truly hope we can win this fight against the disease and find an end to cancer. I donate to a dog in need each month, it is a hard choice because there are so many, but I know that helping just one dog can make a difference. Our weekends are all about fun! We start our mornings off with a 2+ mile walk, and then Elle takes a long nap while I work till lunch time. After lunch we play in the pool swimming laps and she loves to fetch her tennis ball. Then later it’s snuggle time in the recliner or watching TV in the man cave. On Sundays, we get together with other great pet parents and their dogs and go for a pack walk. Elle has so many friends and continues to make more. She inspired "Roanoke Valley Pack Walk," a weekly community group meet to promote responsible dog ownership. We are creating canine good citizens, networking responsible dog owners, and helping local rescues. Elle is the official greeter of the new dogs

that join the group and she makes the rescue dog that we feature each week feel welcome. With her help, I hope to have more canine good citizens and therapy dogs on our team. She has two best friends that she met from the pack walks. Kaine is a Pit Bull, and Leah is a Bull Mastiff, and they all have so much fun together. She encouraged Kaine to take his first swim in our pool this summer and their favorite place to hang out and play is at the river. Elle earned the AKC Therapy Dog Title. She joined the children on school picture day and her portrait was in the school yearbook this year at Vaughan Elementary! Cesarsway.com recognized her a runner up Pit Bull of the Year Winner. And she is a 2012 AHA Hero Dog Awards Therapy Dog Nominee. I can't get enough of this dog! She is a very special companion and I cherish this gift every day. Not only has she changed other peoples’ lives, but she has changed my life too. I am a better person because of her and my mission is to pay it forward.

For more information or to contact: Visit the Website at: www.ellethepitbull.com Email Elle the Pit Bull at: ellethepitbull@gmail.com Become a fan on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/EllethePitBull

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 23

SPECTACULAR DOG!

ECCO D’ORO

AKC Grand Champion, Philanthropist, Travel Correspondent, and a Naughty Dog! minster Dog Show. We were welcomed by Metropolitan Opera Star, Janet Hopkins, who performed a “good luck” pre-show Aria for Ecco in the lobby of the Hotel Pennsylvania! Who knew a dog could love opera so much? We are constantly looking for innovative projects to help others. We recently wrapped up a country music song with America’s Got Talent Top 20 Video Finalist, Bria Kelly, to raise money for St. Jude. The filming of our next video for charity will start soon with two sensations out of Hollywood. Stay tuned! We are thrilled to announce that our non-profit status is pending which will enable us to take our ability to give to an entire new level.

The first time I saw a picture of a Spinone Italiano in a magazine, I was captivated. After carefully researching the breed, it appeared to be a perfect fit for our family. Known for being comical and non-dominant, it was a great choice to compliment Minnie Pearl, our extremely challenging and dominant Bloodhound rescue. When Ecco joined our family, it was with the agreement that he would participate in conformation showing and hunt training with the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association. With the intention of preserving the integrity of the breed, Ecco became an AKC Star Puppy, and is currently a AKC Grand Champion. He holds the AKC Junior Hunt Title as well as a NAVHDA Prize III Award. His first experience in the show ring was at 4 months old in Hampton, VA, where he won the Puppy Sporting Group Competition in a fun match.

In addition to being a show dog, Ecco has the unusual honor of being the first Canine Travel Correspondent for Everyday Opera Magazine. We realized at an early age that children respond beautifully to him, so the magazine thought it would be fun to journal our travels while eliminating the “stuffy” stereotypes sometimes associated with the opera. Having children of all ages learn about the fine arts via a fluffy big dog seems to be quite successful so far! Ecco puts his tracking skills to good use as he flushes out some of the best hot spots on the east coast!

Ecco is very social and attends events on a weekly basis. He has donated to over 75 organizations and animals in need within the last year. He is constantly lending a paw through creating awareness and networking. A typical week for Ecco is spent making public appearances, reviewing hot tourist spots, filming for various projects, and packing the bags for road trips when it’s a show weekend. In his spare time, you can find Ecco sleeping on the family cocktail table or dining room table where he doesn’t belong! Ecco has touched lives across the globe, while being the most incredible family dog that anyone could hope to have. A portion of every sale from his product line ALWAYS goes back into the charity “dog bowl.” We are truly blessed to have Ecco in our lives and hope that he will continue to inspire all who meet him.

Ecco and his “ghost writer” add an unprecedented dimension to the upscale travel magazine yielding an unexpected dynamic for readers to enjoy. I’m fairly certain that we have recruited a few animal lovers into new opera lovers!

For more information or to contact:

The show world and opera collided when we set out for the coveted West-

Become a fan on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/eccodoro

24 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

Visit the Website at: www.eccodoro.com

photos by Kathryn Dunlap

RUFIO RICARDO

“I am going to be the next BIG greeting card star!” by Kathryn Dunlap (Rufio’s mama)

The day I picked up Rufio was one of the greatest days of my life. I thought I was picking up the cutest puppy in the world, and had no idea I was bringing home a superstar! At 5 months old, Rufio wore his first costume for Halloween dressed as a gladiator. Then a few months later, Hallmark had a pet Halloween greeting cards contest. I entered the gladiator photo of Rufio, and it won! He has recently appeared on his third Hallmark card due out for Christmas. In the process, I took many new pictures of Rufio in full costume and I was truly shocked by his modeling abilities. He was a natural! So I decided to launch Rufio's Rumblings in April 2011, which is a greeting card line featuring the one and only Rufio. We started his line with 12 cards and now Rufio's Rumblings has a total of 27 unique and outrageous cards! Rufio takes his job very seriously, and once I tell Rufio it's time for pictures,

he sits and waits while I get his costume ready. I get him suited up and he just does not move unless I direct him to. I use hand signal so he knows where to look or when to lay down. He has been known to wear wigs, glasses, shoes, hats, and my very favorite -fake teeth! The actual photos don't take much time at all because Rufio is so good, and it only takes 4-5 shots to get a perfect photo. I will then forward the wording and editing I need done to my wonderful daughter who does the final work on the cards. She then sets them up for printing and off they go to production. We try to add a couple new cards every 3-4 months, so I spend a lot of time with Rufio coming up with new ideas and fun costumes. Rufio is a generous dog and will donate his products for auctions to help raise money for shelters, rescues, and animals in need. Rufio also wins a lot of contests, so we try to give away as

26 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

much as possible, sometimes it is food, dog toys, gift cards, or donations made in Rufio's name. We also give 20% of his sales to NeoRescue. Rufio and I are hoping as his star gets brighter, we will be able to help more animals in need. We also have some other big Rufio news. A production company is working on a television show featuring Rufio! So hopefully you will be able have Rufio in your living room in the near future. Also, you may catch a glimpse of Rufio in an upcoming Petsmart commercial in late summer. Please stop by his website to see his greeting cards, t-shirts, videos, and pictures, because "Nobody Says It Like Rufio!"

For more information: Visit the Website at: www.rufiosrumblings.com Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/Rufio-RicardoFan-Club

Photo of the bride Fiona by Carol Stover Parish

FABULOUS DOG!

FANTASTIC DOG!

DENALI THE DOG A Golden Retriever’s vision to brighten peoples’ lives through photographs, words, and his own greeting cards! By Madalyn Ruggiero (Denali’s mom)

Denali was named after the mountain, not the car. Denali came into my life in October of 2001 while I was working as a photographer at a newspaper in Pennsylvania. Attempting to be creative for the holiday season, I placed a bow on him, took a photo, and sent it out as my holiday greeting card. It became a yearly tradition for family and friends, and after years of receiving holiday photo greetings from Denali, my family ecouraged me to do more with it. So I did, and Denali started his very small greeting card business. Currently, there are 32 Denali The Dog greeting cards. His cards are being sold in hospitals in the Toledo (Ohio) area, on his website www.denalithedog.com, and in some retail stores. Over the years, Denali has amazed me at how relaxed he is when I dress him in clothes. All of his photos are taken in a spare bedroom in my home and he sits on my cedar chest. I have trained him to get on my cedar chest because I want him at eye level when I photograph him. Some days, he'll jump on my cedar chest and just look at me, like he's saying, "Mom, where's my treat?" Normally, when he's working I will layer 2 or 3 different pieces of clothing on him and he will just sit there. The clothing will be topped off with a hat, wig, and glasses. Then I reward Denali with hugs and treats. Denali and I have done a few meet-andgreets in Michigan and Ohio. Proceeds

from the meet-and-greets have gone to local animal rescues. We have donated towards the local Golden Retriever Rescue in Ohio. We have supported local causes as well. For example, a little girl in our area named Kaylee suffers from Progeria. It's a rare genetic condition that produces rapid aging in children. You can visit www.sweetkaylee.com to learn more about it. I have had Denali take photos with Kaylee for his blog, which helps to bring awareness of her cause, and to tell people about her annual walk fundraiser. I think we will be help promoting it again this year.

photos by Madalyn Ruggiero

In May this year, Denali and I welcomed a little brother into our life. His name is Wilbur and he is also a Golden Retriever. You can read and see photos about the boys life together on Denali The Dog's Facebook page or on Denali's blog. Denali has his Facebook Fan page along with his blog that I update on Mondays and Thursdays with new photos and stories about him. He has a very easy life and probably has no clue that he's working when I take his photo. In life it's the simple things that make you smile and I know my Denali photos bring smiles to people all over the world.

For more information: Visit the Website at: www.denalithedog.com Become a fan on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/Denali-The-Dog

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 27

OUTSTANDING DOG!

SAYS STICK IT TO CANINE CANCER

photo courtesy of Wishcuit™

ZOEY

By Kelly Kaliszewski, Founder of Wishcuit™ and Zoey’s mom

Zoey is the spokesdog for Wishcuit™ and a Pit Bull on a mission to raise funds and awareness to help find a cure for canine cancer In 2009, I lost my American Bulldog Cain, to cancer shortly after his 10th birthday. He was my four-legged soul mate. In honor of Cain, I had created a drawing a few months before he passed away that depicts the love we share with our canine friends and called it Love Adds Up. In early 2010, along with other Wishcuit products, I began selling stickers, magnets, and merchandise that depicts the Love Adds Up image at pet events, online, and at canine cancer walks. The proceeds from each sale are donated to rescues, urgent dogs in need, and to the research and treatment of canine cancer. And then came Zoey! Zoey came into my life in December 2010 when I was asked to foster a litter of ten puppies that had been confiscated from a backyard breeding

situation. I agreed to watch over two of the puppies, a brother and sister, until their adoptions were secured. There was just something magical about the little white one with bright blue eyes that captured my heart, and I adopted Zoey. Zoey has been a social butterfly from the beginning, with a love for people and dogs that is unbelievable. She has a patience that astounds many, and she lets me dress her in tutus and hats, along with an occasional pair of shades. In August of 2010, shortly before she turned one, she accompanied me to a pet expo and she was like a magnet! People were drawn to her, not only for her beauty, but also for her friendliness and outgoing behavior. Wishcuit's Love Adds Up stickers are sold online, in retail stores, veterinary clinics, and at pet events throughout the country. All net proceeds are donated to help dogs in need from shelters or rescues, to veterinary research and treatment of canine cancer.

28 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

Zoey's special job is to raise funds to help find a cure for canine cancer. She assists me on most sales calls, and the tutus are her cue. When she sees me with one in hand, she jumps up ready to go to work! A typical weekend involves going to an event with plenty of Love Adds Up merchandise and information on canine cancer. That's when Zoey's special job begins. When she's dressed in a pink tutu, no one can resist her! She's helping to spread awareness about canine cancer, a disease that claims the lives of 1 in 3 dogs. Millions of dogs are diagnosed with cancer each year, and our goal is to help find a cure. We have a long ways to go, but we'll do it! As Zoey says - Stick It To Canine Cancer!

For more information or to contact: Visit the Website at: www.wishcuit.com Become a fan on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/stickittocaninecancer www.facebook.com/wishcuit

IN ThE DOG'S KITChEN

GREEN

AND ADD SOME

GREEN VEGTABLES TO YOUR DOG'S DIET Vegetables are loaded with vitamins, minerals, ﬁber, and antioxidants, and have amazing health beneﬁts for dogs.

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

IN ThE DOG'S KITChEN

SPINACh

BROCCOLI

PEAS

GREEN BEANS

BELL PEPPERS

CABBAGE

CELERy

KALE

ASPARAGUS

ZUCChINI

BRUSSEL SPROUTS

SNAP PEAS

American Dog Media | Summer 2012

FAvORITE STICKS!

Zoe & Scooter

Be l l a Kola

Le x i Cassie Fe n t o n 34

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

FAMOUS DOGS

WITH FRIENDS

"ThE MOON PIEDS"

"BOOG, ThE TORNADO SURvIvOR"

"PORKChOP ThE ENGLISh BULLDOG"

"BEKA ThE BOXERPIT"

"SOARING CINDy"

"EDWARD, ThE BULL TERRIER"

"MUNSTER"

"CINNIE MINNIE"

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

FAMOUS DOGS

ON FACEBOOk!

"JUNO ThE PITBULL GODDESS"

"JAKE ThE WONDER BOXER"

"WhERE’S vIOLET"

"STARLA"

"MILO ThE PIT BULL"

"BUDDy ThE PUGGy"

"SNARF"

"FIRE SAFETy DOGS” (TANGO, SIREN, SPARKLES 2) American Dog Media | Summer 2012

FAMOUS DOGS

WITH FRIENDS

"BELLA ThE BOXER"

"ZOEy SAyS STICK IT TO CANCER"

"MI BELLAMORE"

"DUTChESS ThE DOG"

"DJAINGO WARAGOL"

"ShERMAN TANK BARRISE"

"DOG EARED BLOG - MOLLIE JO"

"FIONA MCSNUGGLES"

"CLARK G ThE DOG"

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

FAMOUS DOGS

ON FACEBOOk!

"ChLOE’S PLACE"

"BUDDy’S TRAvELS"

"SIR LUKE"

"TITUS AND hIS GIRL hAILEy"

"ROCKy RAT TERRIER"

"ELLE ThE PIT BULL"

"OLIvER’S CLUBhOUSE"

"TINA ThE ELDERBULL"

"MILO’S WORLD" American Dog Media | Summer 2012

FAMOUS DOGS

WITH FRIENDS

"RAMSEy AND PABLO" (RAMSEy, PABLO AND SUvI)

"SPRINKLES POLKA DOTTED PITTIEGIRL"

"CARL LEIChTER"

"DOZER BATTS"

"GWEN’S LAST ChANCE"

"WILLIE FITZGERALD, A PUG’S TALE"

"CALI LOLLIPOP"

"GALT’S BLIND SPOT"

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

FAMOUS DOGS

ON FACEBOOk!

"MR. BUDDy ROSE"

"WEINERBITES"

"JETER BUG"

“SLEEPS WITh DOGS (ThIS IS PIGGIE)”

"JEANIE ThE 3- LEGGED POOCh"

"PIXEL BLUE EyES"

"RADCLIFF ThE DEAF DOG"

"JEREMIAh’S JOURNEy"

"JOhANNThEDOG" American Dog Media | Summer 2012

ROLE MODEL: DEvOTION By liSa tipton, founDer anD executive Director of angelDogS founDation

angeldogS foundaTion AngelDogs Foundation Deaf Dog Ranch Saving deaf dogs from shelters all over America

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANGELDOGS FOUNDATION

Angel, the first deaf dog rescued by AngelDogs Foundation, now lives with a former “Price is Right” model that adores her

Misty didn’t stand much of a chance in a municipal shelter. The beautiful white Dogo Argentino mix not only looked like a pit bull, but she was also deaf. Despite their high intelligence and ease to train, many deaf dogs are overlooked for adoption and instead end up a sad shelter statistic. That’s why my husband Mark Tipton, a certified dog trainer, and I started privately rescuing deaf dogs three years ago. Since then, we’ve adopted out more than two dozen to thoroughly screened homes. In June 2012, we opened AngelDogs Foundation Deaf Dog Ranch in Acton, California, the first all-breed deaf dog rescue in the country.

Thanks to AngelDogs Foundation Deaf Dog Ranch, Misty has a second chance. She is currently one of 25 deaf dogs residing at our climate-controlled facility. Canine residents range from a 10lb Maltese to a 90-lb Great Dane mix. All of our dogs are spayed or neutered, given complete veterinary check-ups, quality food, and lots of TLC before being placed for adoption. During their time at the ranch, Mark and the volunteers and staff train the dogs by utilizing hand signals, facial expressions, and body language. Since deaf dogs are so intelligent and eager to please, most of them take to training very quickly, learning commands such as sit, down, come,

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

and stay. We also provide free postadoption training to our adopters and teach them how to communicate with their new family member. Our deaf dog journey began with Chata, now named Angel. She was spayed at the AngelDogs Foundation mobile spay/neuter clinic, a non-profit organization that I am the director of. Since she received a microchip at our clinic, we were contacted after Angel escaped her yard and was picked up by animal control as a stray. We called her owners, who wanted Angel back, but refused to pay to get her out of the shelter. On the day Angel was due to be euthanized, we rescued her. After training with Mark, Angel was

ROLE MODEL: DEvOTION Mark and lisa Tipton holding Dominic, a deaf Portuguese Water Dog puppy

AngelDogs Foundation Deaf Dog ranch founder lisa Tipton springs Misty, a young Dogo Argentino mix, from a los Angeles County Shelter. This is iris, a deaf and adorable Pit Bull puppy

Deaf dogs, such as these four rescued by AngelDogs Foundation, are eager to please and easy to train

then placed for adoption. She found a fantastic home with one of the former Bob Barker girls on “The Price is Right,” who adores Angel and takes her everywhere. Angel was a very special dog that taught us how to communicate with her, and mentored the new deaf dogs being fostered during her stay in our home. Deafness is usually genetic, is very common in many breeds, and may be caused by breeding for color or coat. Many breeders “cull” or kill deaf dogs. Culling is recommended by many breed clubs because the dogs are wrongly viewed as disabled. Our goal is to make more people aware that responsible breeding with an eye to genetics is the key to less deafness in litters born. Once born, deaf dogs are

capable of living very normal lives with the right guardians. Mark and I know how special deaf dogs are, so we are very excited to have an opportunity to showcase them at the ranch. Most of them have amazing temperaments and are very happy “velcro” dogs. Once people come and meet these ‘angels,’ they will never be the same. Deaf dogs tend to bond very deeply, are very intuitive, and occupy a permanent place in your heart. AngelDogs Foundation Deaf Dog Ranch will host its official grand opening this fall. Our hope is that dog lovers will come out in droves to see our ranch in action and ultimately become a sponsor, donor, volunteer, or adopter.

By doing so, the stigma for deaf dogs will continue to decrease and many more of them will find forever families. To RSVP for the grand opening this fall and receive location details, please contact Michelle Sathe at Michelle@AngelDogsFoundation.org or (661)803-2909. Businesses that would like to partner with AngelDogs Foundation Deaf Dog Ranch by providing silent auction or other prizes may also contact Michelle.

For more information or to make a donation: Please visit their Website at: www.angeldogsfoundation.org Become a fan on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AngelDogs-Foundation

American Dog Media | Summer 2012

ROLE MODEL: DEDICATION PHoToS By PAW PrinTS CHArMing PET PHoTogrAPHy

DOLLY’S FOUNDATION

AnD TAMPA BAy BulliES TEAM uP

To STArT

By alliSon Bowling

Dolly’s Foundation is most commonly known for rescuing Harper, the deformed puppy who was discarded in a trash bag last year that they rehabilitated and saved. Harper is alive and well and has prompted Dolly’s Foundation to launch a new Florida-based program with fellow pit bull type dog advocacy group, Tampa Bay Bullies. The new program is called Project: Snip-a-Pit, and it’s geared towards spaying and neutering pit bull type dogs whose owners are unable to pay for these often expensive surgeries. The target location is central Florida, from Daytona Beach area, through Orlando, and all the way down to Tampa Bay. Their goal? Lower the numbers of pit bull type dogs entering shelters in central Florida. “Dolly’s Foundation started out as a rescue organization,” says Erica Daniel, President and Founder of the non-profit organization, “and we’ll always be one. But we’ve decided to begin working at the top of the pyramid by implementing a spay/neuter program, rather than

scrambling around at the bottom of the pyramid rescuing dogs one by one.” Project: Snip-a-Pit is in full swing and has already begun fixing dogs. “We’ve fixed about 20 dogs so far this year, but our goal is much, much higher,” says Kim Miller, Co-Founder of Tampa Bay Bullies, the sister organization to the joint Snip-a-Pit program. Kim, along with her husband Joe, began rescuing pit bull type dogs years ago in the Tampa Bay area. “We knew Erica through the rescue community, and immediately agreed to team up with them at Dolly’s Foundation. We cover the Tampa Bay area, and Erica and her team cover the Orlando area, fixing as many pit bull type dogs as we can.” Miller explains. So, not only are they looking for families in central Florida to help, they’re looking for veterinary clinics who are interested in teaming up. “Fixing your dog can be expensive if you don’t have connections in the animal world. We want to change that,” says Daniel. “We’re finding it less and less

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

common to locate veterinary clinics in the Orlando area that are willing to help us out with discounted rates. Tampa has a handful of great low-cost programs for spay/neuter, but Orlando is behind with the times.” She goes on to explain how even some of the self proclaimed “low cost” clinics have hidden charges, like unnecessary vaccines or requiring the purchasing of an E-Collar, and some tacking on an automatic $35 just to walk in the door. “The massive pet overpopulation problem in our country is not only thanks to irresponsible owners, but there are many owners out there who want to do the right thing and have their animals fixed, but they just don’t have the money for it.” Says Miller.

For more information about Project: Snip-a-Pit or to contact: Project: Snip-a-Pit: www.projectsnipapit.org Dolly’s Foundation: www.dollysfoundation.org Tampa Bay Bullies: www.tampabaybullies.org

ROLE MODEL: INSPIRE zach Skow with Dog trainer liSa porter anD Some of the DogS at the reScue. PHoToS By JoSH BrADlEy

MARLEY’S MUTTS DOG RESCUE ALL CREEDS, ALL BREEDS WELCOME By zach Skow, founDer of marley’S muttS Dog reScue

Why did you get involved in animal rescue? About four years ago, at 28 years old, I was admitted into Comprehensive Transplant at Cedars Sinai Medical Center. I had spent the last month and a half at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital fighting complications from End-stage liver disease (liver and kidney failure), the result of 10 years of continuous alcohol and drug abuse. The goal of the Comprehensive Transplant team at Cedars was to help me survive long enough to get the liver transplant that I desperately needed. A Mayo Clinic study on End-stage liver disease calculated that there was a 76% chance I would die in 90 days or less without a liver transplant. In order to avoid becoming a statistic I would need to

rediscover my will to live, and somehow slow the progression of my disease. I was morally and spiritually bankrupt, and to make matters much worse, I was not healthy enough to undergo transplant surgery. What I did have going for me was my father’s love and two shelter dogs; Marley (a Rottweiler/ Pit bull mix), and Tug (a Labrador mix), who would help me find my purpose, while at the same time restoring my body and mind. When I began my “dog therapy” I weighed 140 lbs, my complexion was completely yellow (what wasn’t yellow was bruised purple), and I had spider veins feeding a swollen belly that appeared to be 9 months pregnant. I was a scared, alcoholic kid and I thought I was destined to die that way; but the dogs gave me motivation to stick around

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

and face one more day, one day at a time. Our walking routine progressed from a few short “crawls” with Marley and Tug, to long walks and then 2-3 mile runs, adding several other rescue dogs that needed rehabilitation. As my health improved, I began volunteering for a large dog rescue called Canine Canyon Ranch. I fostered dogs for Leslie Monoit, the Director, and I would soon become her understudy. She taught me most of what I needed to know about rescuing dogs and specifically, how to operate a “packbased” rescue. To maintain symbiotic harmony, you needed to be assertive, calm, and confident (even if you weren’t feeling confident). “Stick your chest out, don’t be afraid, you are in charge,” is what she’d tell me. Her “pack-model” of socialization opened the door for

ROLE MODEL: INSPIRE kenny waiting for hiS forever home

What programs have you implemented to help pets get adopted?

countless, otherwise “unadoptable” dogs to be rescued and go to loving, forever homes. Leslie’s method of pack rehabilitation and socialization takes much of the guess work out of it and gives that dog and that family the chance to find each other. In many of the shelters around Kern County the euthanasia rate is near 80% and most of those dogs are large dogs. She was saving a lot of large dogs and I was elated to be a part of it.

What is a typical day like for you at Marley's Mutts?

What I didn’t know is that Leslie was grooming me to be her replacement. She was moving to New Mexico and wanted me to fill the void that would be left by her departure. I had a substantial history of epic failures that were the smoldering ruins of my past, and I was not 100% confident that I had what it took. Luckily, what I did have was a God of my understanding, a supportive family, a phenomenal group of friends, and a veterinary hospital that was willing to work with me to help make it happen.

Everyday starts the same. I wake up with the pups and then we go out for a bike ride or a walk with the whole pack. Or sometimes, I’ll go to the park and do a few laps on the skateboard with a few pups. Once we get back to the house the dogs usually all sack out on their beds in the living room or in my office. Then I’ll hit the computer to field emails (usually in the 60+ range by the time I wake up), messages and phone calls (my phone mailbox is usually maxed out by midday), and Facebook. I also spend a decent amount of time picking up after the shelter dogs that don’t know where to go to the bathroom. If needed, I make the rounds to Bakersfield or other areas to pick up dogs at the shelter and bring them here to the rescue and start working to find them new homes. And every afternoon I take the whole pack out for another run or bike ride and get them all tuckered out for the night.

When did you start your own rescue, Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue?

How many animals has Marley's Mutts rescued or adopted out?

The Rescue started in June of 2009 and we became a fully recognized 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization in May of 2010.

Since we started in 2009 we have rescued and found homes for over 500 dogs.

The primary program that we have implemented is the basic structure of our rescue; a pack oriented, socialization center that allows abandoned, scared dogs to feel comfortable and behave like dogs. We are different from other rescues in that we don’t take them from one cage and bring them to another— rather we add them to our family, giving them a chance to flourish.

WE HAVE IMPLEMENTED THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS:

7 Behavioral Rehabilitation Program 7 Foster Parent Training Program 7 Dog / People Aggression Rehabilitation with trainer Lisa Porter

7 Separation Anxiety / Fear Socialization / Confidence Building with trainer Lisa Porter

7 Facebook

Marketing / Network Blogs, plus a YouTube video blog with Zach!

7 News and Media Relations Program focusing on Dog Owner Education

7 The Balanced Dog Pack Social Club

for community members, rescue leaders, and dog owners looking for a fun environment to socialize their dogs.

Our first meeting will be at Griﬃth Park in Los Angeles. We also are working on a Photographic Essay with our staff photographer Josh Bradley entitled, The Abandoned Project, to help bring awareness to the growing issues of more and more dogs finding their way into shelters.

American Dog Media | Summer 2012

ROLE MODEL: INSPIRE

Founder Zach Skow with 2 rescue dogs

Is there a favorite rescue or adoption that really stands out for you? Anzach, our 11 year old Chow-mix would have to be one of the rescues that sticks with me the most. Anzach came to us in a strange way. His owners were my neighbors and had asked if we would dog-sit him while they looked for a new home in Texas. His owners would call every month saying that they were coming to get him, but they just needed to get “this” settled or “that” taken care of. Some time went by and the owners called saying that the lightening in Texas would scare Anzach and that they didn’t want him anymore. He was with us for 2 years and we grew to love him immensely. One day out of the blue, when all hope of finding him a home was nearly lost, we got a call from an amazing family that saw his new pictures on the website. They said that he looked exactly like their dog and that they wanted to come meet him. They were a younger, very hip, active couple with 10 and 12 year old boys— not exactly the type of family that you would expect to adopt an aging Chow. Well, Anzach fell in love, the kids fell in love, the dog that looked like Anzach fell in love with Anzach, and the rest is history. We get updates from them often that show Anzach hiking, boating, snow-ball-fighting—I mean he couldn’t be happier and neither could we!

Photos by Josh Bradley

What are Marley's Mutts plans for 2012/2013? We are in the midst of raising funds to expand the Marley’s Mutts facility. This would include updating our offices and rescue infrastructure to make the center more conducive to volunteering and rehabilitation. We aim to make our rescue more people friendly, as well as be able to handle more dogs. We also need overall improvements to the grounds (fencing, etc) to allow more room to roam for the pack. We are also implementing an awareness program with local schools to teach children about dogs and that a lot of the stigmas that big dogs bring are false and that they truly are gentle giants. At the same time, we would love to bring the kids up on field trips to our facility to see how a rescue works and learn what it takes to help dogs in need. We are also going to begin trying to work with rehab facilities to help recovering addicts by using the dogs for therapy. This is something we just recently did for Dr. Drew Pinsky at his rehabilitation clinic in Pasadena for a show he was taping which will air sometime in September of this year.

48 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

Dog Trainer Lisa with Sonar

For more information or to make a donation: Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue 22201 Amberwood Ct Tehachapi, CA 93561 Phone: (661) 972-3852 Website: www.marleysmutts.com Email: zach@marleysmutts.com Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/marleysmuttsdogrescue

ROLE MODEL: COMPASSION photos courtesy of Pets Alive

PE T S AL IVE ANIMAL SANCTUARY

One of the oldest no-kill organizations located in Middletown, NY By KERRY CLAIR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF PETS ALIVE

What is a typical day like for you at Pets Alive? A typical day at Pets Alive involves doing rounds to check on all the animals, stop and visit with my favorite

ones, discuss various issues with staff, respond to emails and phone calls, touch base with other rescue groups that are asking for help, check the daily euthanasia lists of other shelters and see how many animals we can help, pay bills, and then spend some time begging people to help us financially!

50 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

On any given day, we will have medical emergencies. Pets Alive takes in animals that many other rescues cannot handle. Many of our animals are senior, or have various medical needs. Quite often, we have an issue that we need to immediately attend to in order to help an animal get through a medical

ROLE MODEL: COMPASSION

We do not believe in taking in an animal unless we can provide a quality of life for them. crisis. Sometimes, that can take hours of your time, and other times, we can tend to it quickly and help them back on their feet. The animals always come first here. So it doesn’t matter how many calls we have to return, or emails we need to reply to, or what bills need to be paid – if an animal needs us, all the staff comes together at that time to help that animal. Our staff is so amazingly dedicated. They don’t check the clock or call in sick. They are here all the time, they often come in when they are off to check on an animal, and often take sick or scared animals home so they don’t spend the night unattended in our facility. I have tremendous respect and admiration for each and every one of them. In addition, a typical day would also involve people stopping by to ask us for help taking in animals, or people dropping in to adopt an animal at one of our facilities. We also see people coming by just to drop off donations of supplies, or to volunteer walking dogs, or playing with and socializing our cats, or helping us with data entry or facility care. We rely so heavily on our volunteers and we have such respect for them. They truly have helped build us to where we are today.

How many animals does Pets Alive rescue or adopt out each year? Pets Alive saves well over 2,500 animals each year. We are not just a no-kill animal rescue. Pets Alive is a sanctuary. That means we provide lifetime care for animals that have no other options. That doesn’t mean warehousing though. We do not believe in taking in an animal unless we can provide a quality of life for them. It isn’t a kindness to take in an animal with aggression issues and then put them in a run and never interact with them, but feel satisfied that you “saved” them. That is not saving them. Every animal we take in, we commit to. That means we provide mental stimulation for them, a wonderful living environment, outings, training, and plenty of human and animal interaction. We match up all our dogs with other dogs (if they like other animals), and all our cats live in cage-free rooms set up like living rooms. We strongly believe that if you take an animal into your care then you must provide for all of that animal’s needs. Even our most aggressive animals have many staff members and many more volunteers that interact

with them, take them home for overnights, and spend time working with and training them to help with their behavior issues or fears. So we do save thousands of animals a year, but more importantly, we provide a chance and a life for those animals that have no other options at a typical shelter or rescue. What programs have you implemented to help get pets adopted? Pets Alive strongly believes in the “no-kill equation.” That means in order to have an effective no-kill community you must adhere to basic programs and principals. We do many things to get our animals adopted. We offer discounted adoption fees for harder to place animals, or animals that have been here for a longer period of time. We do off-site adoption events every single weekend to get our animals out in the public, and get our rescue known and recognized in the community. We publicize our animals in every way possible – utilizing social networking like twitter and facebook, as well as listing them in the local papers, listing them on our

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 51

ROLE MODEL: COMPASSION

photos courtesy of Pets Alive

own website, and on various online pet finding services with good photos and well written descriptions.

community. Additionally, at our Westchester location we are offering low cost spay/neuter to lower income residents.

We also vet every animal carefully before adoption (testing for diseases, altering each animal, and treating any illnesses), so adopters can feel comfortable adopting a healthy animal from us. We make use of foster homes and we started a program called Seniors for Seniors, where we are working together with senior organizations (such as Office of the Aging and Meals on Wheels) to put senior animals in homes with senior residents. We cover all expenses for the animals and it provides a more difficult to place animal (seniors are notoriously harder to adopt) with people that want an animal in their life, but need a little assistance caring for them (be it physical or financial). What a win-win for our senior animals and our senior residents in the community!

We also check up on all the animals we adopt out. We check at 3 days, three weeks, and then again after two months. If the new adopter is having any sort of difficulty with their animal we immediately put them in touch with our trainers to work through and resolve issues. So many animals can stay in the home with just a little bit of help if adopters are willing to work at it. Our success rate is over 97% of these animals that stay in the home, rather than get returned for behavior issues! We also help people who are looking to surrender their animals for behavior issues by offering free training classes at our facility. Very often, people just need a little guidance and assistance to work through a difficult time and they wind up being able to keep their pet!

We have also recently kicked off our TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) program to help solve the issue of feral cats in the

Pets Alive has also established the Pet Chow Pantry. This animal food

52 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

(and litter) pantry services the community. Sometimes people look to surrender their pets because they can no longer afford them. What an awful situation for them, to not only be temporarily jobless, but now to also give up your pet. We needed to put an end to that, and so we created the pantry to help people through these difficult times by providing food and litter to them, and in some cases medical care until they are back on their feet.

For more information or to contact: Visit their website at: www.petsalive.org Become a fan on Facebook: www.facebook.com/petsalive Follow them on Twitter: www.twitter.com/petsalive Finally, visit their sanctuary in Puerto Rico - www.petsalivepr.org - where you can stay at the sanctuary and have a “rescue vacation” – helping to rescue animals and care for them on location!

ROLE MODEL: PASSION

BEAGLE

FREEDOM

PROJECT Rescuing Beagles from laboratory “research” and adopting them into loving homes! By Shannon Keith, President and Founder of Beagle Freedom Project

Why did you start Beagle Freedom Project? I started ARME (Animal Rescue, Media & Education) as a non-profit in 2004 in order to rescue animals in need, and expose animal cruelty via the media. In particular, by making documentary films to reach a broader audience to educate about animal exploitation. I have always fought very hard against vivisection (vivisection is the testing of a live animal, frequently without the use of pain killers or anesthesia). My main passion has been to end these cruel and

archaic practices, by changing legislation and saving the animals that are the subjects of these cruel tests. However, I never though that laboratories would actually release animals to me. In December of 2010, when I found out that there was a possibility of rescuing these animals, I decided to form Beagle Freedom Project as a mission of ARME. It is named Beagle Freedom Project because beagles are the primary breed of dog used in testing, although, we will save any animal that we can. We have also rescued 6 rabbits from vivisection laboratories.

54 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

The purpose of Beagle Freedom Project is tri-fold: (1) to rescue animals from testing laboratories, rehabilitate them, and adopt them into forever homes; (2) through the rescues, to educate the world about animal testing; and (3) to end animal testing all together. How many beagles has your organization rescued or adopted out? To date, we have rescued 67 beagles. This is an enormous number for only being operational less than a year and

ROLE MODEL: PASSION

Sa fe a nd H appy at L as t !

Re s c u e d F i n a l l y !

Sh a n n on G e t t i ng a Kiss

dogs - he was just happy to finally be able to bask in the sun all day and go on long, slow walks.

for him all day, every day. He laid by my side as I worked and I syringe-fed him every hour. He would always look at me as if to say, "thank you," after every meal, every snuggle, and every kiss. While I had Ebbie, I had also rescued a pit bull mother who had 10 puppies that were all going to be killed. When everyone had been adopted except for two of them, I allowed the pups in the house with all of us. Ebbie was the best pup-sitter in town! The puppies would nibble on his ears and sleep on top of him and he loved every second of it.

Photos by Cyndee Arroyo

a half, but also having to fight with laboratories to release the animals to us. We immediately get our rescues into foster homes so that they can begin their rehabilitation immediately. When they have been medically cleared and they are psychologically ready, they are then adopted into their forever homes. Is there a favorite rescue that really stands out for you? There are so many, but I would have to say that Ebbie really touched my heart. Ebbie was one of the 40 dogs we rescued from a laboratory in Spain. He arrived with the others on November 23, 2011. Of all the beagles, he appeared to be one of the weakest and oldest. Ebbie was like a loving, sometimes cranky, old man. We immediately got him into a great foster home with another of his lab mates. However, Ebbie wasn't ever interested in other

Unfortunately, Ebbie did have some serious medical conditions, and, much like the others, our best veterinarians could not tell us exactly what was going on because there had been things done to them in the lab we could never know. Ebbie was adopted into a home we thought seemed perfect: an older lady who never left the house and who wanted a companion to care for. However, a few weeks after his adoption, on New Year's Eve 2012, she called me to say she no longer wanted him. I drove two hours to get him. When I saw him, he was so weak that she had to carry him to the car. His head was completely sunken in and he was emaciated. I was mortified. I took Ebbie to several vets in the coming days and there was no real explanation. Since there was nothing that we could do, I simply cared

Miraculously, Ebbie began to gain weight and get more energy. Our walks became longer each day and he started to eat on his own. One day, he walked over to the toy basket, took out a stuffed animal, and brought it to his bed to play with. I started to cry. Weeks later, I came home from a long day and saw Ebbie in his usual place on his special bed. He had taken all of the

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 55

ROLE MODEL: PASSION

Photos by Cyndee Arroyo

toys from the toy basket and arranged them on his bed. It was the sweetest sight I had ever seen! Ebbie did eventually heal, and his original foster adopted him where he now he lives with 3 other dogs and is happy as can be!

cut so the animals cannot cry or scream in pain. Most laboratories never allow the animals out of their cages. In fact, some of the dogs we rescued had no muscle tone at all. 2. “THEY ONLY USE RATS AND MICE.” While I do not agree with testing on rats and mice, the "industries" are very good at comparing children to rats in their pro-testing advertisements because they know that most people look at these animals as vermin. The truth is, that while more rats and mice are used in testing merely because they are small and more can fill in to less space, other animals are constantly used such as: dogs, cats, primates, pigs, horses, rabbits, and more.

Have you changed the minds of people regarding lab research on Beagles? Since we began, we have probably changed the minds of thousands of people. It is difficult to say, since most people may not let us know, however, of the people that have, we have changed their lives forever. They will no longer purchase items tested on animals, and many have become activists. In fact, it is a requirement upon adopting one of our dogs that the adoptive person/family only purchase cruelty-free products and also must educate those who inquire as to where their dog came from. We have bandanas that the dogs wear in public that say, "ask me where I came from." What myths you would like to dispel about research on animals? 1. “ THE ANIMALS ARE TREATED WELL.” It is a fact that animals in labs are treated as "subjects." This is why they are given numbers, not names. The laboratory will do anything to save a dime, so they will not use anesthesia or pain control unless necessary for the particular test. They are not given names in order to detach the relationship - so the technicians will not feel for these animals. Frequently, vocal cords are

We are always in need of volunteers on all levels. If anyone would like to volunteer for us, please email us at: info@beaglefreedomproject.org We are also seeking interns. For those who work in a facility that uses animals, please let us know if we can help with giving these animals a second chance at life. We always keep the names of the labs confidential and are willing to sign such documents. We can also be reached by phone at: (310)403-6694 and we will take anonymous calls. We also need donations. We operate under ARME as a non-profit 501(c) (3) and rely on donations to survive. These rescues are incredibly expensive. Our programs are also incredibly costly, such as our new app, which will revolutionize the cruelty-free shopping experience. Donations can be made on our website at: www.beaglefreedomproject.org, thank you!

56 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

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Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

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American Dog Media | Summer 2012

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Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

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American Dog Media | Summer 2012

WORKING DOGS Di na, a fo ur- y ear- o l d Ge r m a n Sh e p h e rd , i s a n i n t e n s e m e m b e r of t h e D IA B om b D og U n it .

Keeping America

Safe-

Dogs on Patrol at U.S. Airports b y Ta mr a Mon ah an

A shrill bark echoes through the baggage claim area at Denver International Airport (DIA). Suddenly Dina, a large German Shepherd, races around the corner, muscles straining against the leash, intense eyes focused, nostrils flared. Technician Brian Wallace of the Denver Police Department’s DIA Bomb Dog Unit pulls on the leash in an effort to control the eager dog’s enthusiasm, but Dina is on a mission to find the prize: explosives. She whines and barks as she sniffs every inch of the unattended pieces of luggage. Abruptly she stops, sits next to a large, blue suitcase, and looks up at Technician Wallace expectantly, as if to say “I found the bomb, now where’s my treat?”

Wallace obliges and pulls out Dina’s favorite toy, a piece of rope with a chew toy attached at the end. They play a brief game of tug-o-war, then it’s back to work for this dynamic duo. Although this is a training scenario, officers of the DIA Bomb Dog Unit are always prepared for any situation that requires searching for explosives, and these bomb dogs love their job. “These dogs are the greatest partners in the world,” Wallace says. “They don’t complain. They never have a bad day. They love to work, which makes my job great.” After 9/11, airport security intensified dramatically. As a result, the Transpor-

62 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

tation Security Administration created cooperative agreements with police departments across the country for bomb dog squads at airports. TSA provides the dogs and the training; the police departments provide the officers who handle the dogs. At Denver International Airport, Sgt. Andre Solomos of the Denver Police Department oversees eight teams of dogs and officers in the DIA Bomb Dog Unit, which patrols all areas of the airport including planes, terminals, parking lots, ticketing desks, baggage claim areas, and seating areas. When the dog teams are out searching for explosives or patrolling public areas, their job has two purposes. First,

WORKING DOGS Photos by Kevin Andrews, Denver International Airport

Denver Police Department Technician Daniel Castro watches as Uurban, a canine officer in the DIA Bomb Dog Unit, sniffs for explosives in an unattended suitcase.

and foremost, they must find explosives if a threat has been reported, but the presence of police officers with trained dogs is also meant to be a deterrent. In addition, people who see the K-9 teams are put at ease knowing the watchful eye of the officer and the skillful nose of the dog are warnings to anyone contemplating using a bomb. “Our visual presence is a crime prevention measure because people see the dogs and they know they’re out there searching for something,” says Sgt. Solomos. “They realize we’re there for a reason.” Although screening machines are used in airport security, a trained bomb dog is often more effective and more reliable at detecting explosives because his nose can find them anywhere. An X-Ray machine will show what is in someone’s bag, but if a clever bomber has hidden explosives inside a common item, such as a perfume or deodorant bottle, the machine may only show the item, not the bomb. A dog, however, can differentiate the odor of explosive materials from other smells, even inside a bottle surrounded by dirty underwear inside a suitcase. Also, dogs are

Denver Police Department Technician Daniel Castro of the DIA Bomb Dog Unit gives his dog Uurban kudos after a successful mission.

more manageable than a cumbersome machine because they can maneuver their noses into tight places, particularly on an airplane. “So far, the most portable, effective, and accurate method to determine whether something is hazardous is a canine,” says Sgt. Solomos. After 29 years of working with detection dogs, he is still fascinated by the capabilities of their noses. He explains the difference between the way people and dogs detect scents as smelling a pizza. Humans smell a certain type of pizza, but dogs can discern all the various ingredients used to make the pizza, which is why bomb dogs are so good at their jobs. To get the right type of bomb detection dogs, the TSA has a puppy program located at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas where dogs are chosen and trained for explosive detection. As a tribute to the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attack, each puppy is named after someone who died on September 11. Two dogs used at DIA came from the TSA's puppy program. Uurban, a six-year-old blond Labrador Retriever, and Aable, a four-year-old

black Labrador Retriever, proudly bear the names of people who died on that fateful day. Recently, Uurban was part of a team that uncovered explosives at Denver International Airport, and her handler, Denver Police Department Technician Daniel Castro, credits Uurban’s success to her incredible ability to concentrate on her task despite chaotic conditions around her. “She’s like a light switch,” he says. “When she’s here working, that switch goes on and she’s totally focused, walking in and out of people and baggage, ignoring any distractions. She loves adults and kids, but when she’s working, she works and nothing else.” Though their jobs involve dangerous situations, the officers of the DIA Bomb Dog Unit believe spending time with their favorite canine friends, protecting the community, and serving their country is a great way of life. “I have the best job,” Technician Brian Wallace says. “Where else do you get to play with a dog all day long and get paid for it?”

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 63

DR'S CORNER

KEEP YOUR MEDICATIONS By Emily K.J. Sachs, DVM, Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital

NSAIDs: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

“I think my dog’s in pain. Is there anything I have at home that’s safe to give him?” Arthritis, injuries, post-surgical pain, inflammation, and fever are all common reasons to want anti-inflammatory or pain medications for our pets. But what is safe to give them? Human anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), or naproxen (Aleve) work well for us, however, they may be harmful or even fatal if given to your dog or cat. Why? Our companion animals metabolize medications differently than we do. Luckily, there are veterinary products made specifically for dogs and cats, which may be appropriate for your pet in many situations. Drugs such as piroxicam, carprofen (Rimadyl), meloxicam (Metacam), deracoxib (Deramaxx), firocoxib (Previcox) and tepoxalin (Zubrin) are commonly used veterinary-specific “non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs” or NSAIDs. These medications are specifically formulated for safe use in our pets. Understanding how these drugs work will help you understand why these drugs are

helpful, why they can be harmful, and what side effects to watch out for in your dog or cat. NSAIDs relieve pain and fever by blocking inflammation, which is why these drugs are commonly used to treat arthritis, injuries, post-surgical pain, and fever. NSAIDs also block some of the substances needed by the body to maintain appropriate health and function of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and platelets. This may lead to negative side effects. Common negative side effects that may occur involve the GI tract (stomach ulcers, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite), the kidneys (kidney failure), and occasionally the liver (liver failure). You may be hesitant to use NSAIDs for your pet because of the possibility of these side effects. However, these are the same side effects that humans are at risk for every time we take Advil, Aleve, or aspirin - just read the label. When used appropriately, the risks of NSAID side effects are low, and being educated about warning signs will help you to identify any potential side effects quickly so that serious problems

64 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

may be avoided or treated promptly with appropriate veterinary care.

Remember there are lots of things we can do to help prevent undesirable side effects from occurring. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

 Your

 Never

veterinarian will most likely recommend running blood and urine tests to make sure your pet has normal kidney and liver function before starting an NSAID. If your pet will be taking an NSAID long-term, blood and urine tests should be rechecked annually or bi-annually while your pet is on the medication, to monitor for any potential changes in kidney or liver values that may show that the medication needs to be stopped. give an NSAID with another type of anti-inflammatory drug. This includes other NSAIDs and steroid drugs

DR'S CORNER

AWAY FROM YOUR PETS!

such as prednisone. Multiple NSAIDs or an NSAID/steroid combination can have much more severe side effects than one drug alone.

If your pet does consume more than the prescribed dose of his or her NSAID medication, or if a human medication is ingested at any time, you should contact a veterinarian immediately as  Always keep NSAIDs (and all emergency treatment may be necessary. medications, for that matter) Your pet may be given medication to where your pet cannot reach induce vomiting, or to prevent some of them. Some veterinary prod- the potential side effects, or IV fluids ucts come in a yummy chew- may be necessary. If treated promptly able form, making tablets easy and appropriately, these toxicities are to give to your pet because rarely fatal. In summary, veterinary they will eat them like a treat. non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Keep pill bottles in a locked (NSAIDs) can be helpful to our pets cabinet or drawer. If your in a wide variety of situations, and are pet does accidentally ingest one of the most commonly prescribed more than the usual dose of medications in veterinary medicine. an NSAID medication, contact NSAIDs may help your old, arthritic your veterinarian immediately dog be more active and pain-free again. to find out if veterinary atten- They may help your puppy with a cut tion is needed. on her paw to feel more like herself,  Talk to your veterinarian be- or keep your new kitten comfortable fore starting or stopping any after her spay surgery. While these drugs medication. We don’t mind have many potential benefits, there are answering your questions- side effects that must be watched for that’s what we’re here for. at home. With careful monitoring at Remember that human medi- home, you and your veterinarian can cations may not be safe for your work together to keep your pet happy, pet, and may even be harmful healthy, and comfortable. Contact your or fatal, even in seemingly veterinarian with any questions you small doses. may have about NSAIDs.

Emily K.J. Sachs, DVM

Dr. Emily Sachs grew up in Mil-

waukee, Wisconsin. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and French from Marquette University, and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Dr. Sachs’ professional interests include Internal Medicine, Critical Care and Cardiology. She also volunteers through the Delta Society with her pitbull Ella, who is a therapy dog.

For more information please visit: www.wheatridgeanimal.com

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 65

SAFETY

PROTECT YOUR DOG FROM THESE Nasty

LITTLE PARASITES! Check your pet daily for these

parasites and help prevent diseases

F leas

tick s

mos quitoes

mites 66 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

Fleas can make your dog sick and can also carry tapeworm eggs

Ticks can cause Lyme disease

Mosquitoes transmit heart worms which can be fatal

Mites can cause a skin condition called mange

TRAINING with Dr. Elliott Harvey

A name is important in establishing communications with the dog. It also helps her to feel like a valued member of the family. Use her name frequently until she learns it. Positive training and exposure is the real key to building a relationship and developing a bond of trust with a dog. Punishment during the early development stages can adversely impact on building self-esteem and learning to trust. Avoid training with any method that involves physical discipline, such as swatting the pup, thumping it on the nose, or rubbing its face in a mess. Even avoid a loud or harsh voce. Remember that she may have never experienced the normal household sights and sounds which could account for some of her current state of fear. The whole transition to a social environment may be very traumatic and overwhelming. Initially, she will need some quiet time to settle down and process all the new things that sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s being exposed to.Â She also may be glued to her crate because it is a den where she can "hide" and safely observe the household routine. Leave the door open to allow her to make the decision to stay or leave her den, but close the door for short periods to allow time to relax and de-stress. When she is spending these short time outs in the crate, ignore her. Keep in mind that although it is tempting to keep the puppy with you and cuddle her all the time to make up for the previous owner or breederâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s failure, it is very unsettling

TRAINING with Dr. Elliott Harvey

and stressful for these puppies to go from a "nobody" to suddenly being the center of attention. Always move slowly and speak softy around the dog. Keep children away as much as possible. See if the dog will accept food or treats from you - that is a good "first step" toward gaining her confidence. If she will not accept them, that is okay. Wait a few days and then try again. If she appears to be food motivated, use food, something really delicious like freeze dried liver as a treat. Always have something in your pocket to use as a reward for behavior that you want from her, such as leaving her crate. As mentioned, leave the crate door open so she can come out when she feels safe, but don’t force anything with the puppy. When you feed her, sit on the floor with the food bowl in your lap and have her eat her meal while the bowl remains in your lap. Don’t touch her or force her to accept you yet—let her associate you with the pleasure of having a full stomach. It will take some time, but eventually, she will become curious about you and at least begin to spend more time out of the crate near you. Talk to her in a low reassuring, “happy” voice and when you feel that she will accept your touching while eating, reach over and very gently scratch her neck. Avoid the top of her head in the beginning because it can cause some anxiety. Introduce new sights, sounds, people, and other pets slowly. Having never heard a vacuum cleaner, door bell, telephone, etc., these things can be terrifying to the puppy. Think before turning on that food processor - it would be a good idea to put the dog in another room first. Give her time and permission to explore her surroundings. It is not necessary to immediately correct her when she investigates

things that may be off limits in the future, let her look them over. Chances are she will not bother them, but she just has never seen anything like that shoe (or magazine, or vase, or whatever) before. Housetraining requires Patience! Remember, a dog that has been kept in a cage all of her life has never been trained to "hold" it, and has NO concept of the idea. It can take time to see any headway in this area. Take the dog out frequently praising her whenever she goes. Always take her out upon awakening and after eating. Keep a very close eye on her when she's loose in the house - the more accidents she has in the house without correction, the harder it will be to get the idea across. DO NOT rub her nose in it or scold her! When you catch her in the act then tell her "NO," and immediately take her to the appropriate place (either outside or her papers). Crate the dog whenever you’re gone or busy since dogs naturally do not like to soil their sleeping area. A treat might also be in order when she goes out as requested. Accidents will happen, so simply take her outside (or to her papers) and tell her to "Go Potty." Don¹t make a big deal of an accident, but do make a big deal of it if she goes out as requested and does her business. Leaving a small piece of urine-soiled paper on top of her piddle papers/ pads will also help her identify "her" spot to go. Likewise, clean all other accident sites with a neutralizing cleaner to remove all traces of her scent. Contact with people other than the immediate family should be discouraged until the dog is comfortable with your family and has developed some trust. Once the dog is comfortable and secure in your home and with your family, now is the time to begin socializing her with other people. Invite a friend over to visit and slowly introduce them. If the dog is timid, let her make

the advances and check the newcomer out. They might want to offer her a treat as a gesture of good will. The dog should pick up cues from you that this person is welcome and accepted in your home. Be patient as the scenario may need to be repeated several times before the dog does not feel threatened by a new face. As the dog warms to family and friends without showing signs of fear or aggression you may begin outside socialization on your own. When you begin to feel comfortable with your dog's behavior take her out in public every day. Parks and pet supply stores that allow pets are good choices. Encourage people to talk to her and pet her. Once she's comfortable, give her time to look around, check things out, and investigate new things. There's a whole, big, wide world out there that she¹s never seen before. End each outside trip with a special treat— for example, drive through McDonald’s and get her a small hamburger!

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

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

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 69

HEALTH: WATER

DOGS NEED CLEAN,

FRESH WATER DAILY If you won’t drink water from your dog’s water bowl…

…then neither should your dog! Wash out you dog’s water bowl every single day to keep it clean! (dirty water bowls can harbor bacteria and bad organisms) Best water bowl is a stainless steel bowl (easiest to keep clean and resist scratches) If you drink bottled water or filtered water, then your dog should too! Some household tap water may contain too many chemicals so you should include bottled water for your pet on your shopping list. Or, just buy one of those water filter jugs and filter their water from the tap into the jug to take out the toxins. Make sure you give your dog clean, fresh water everyday, and the water bowl should be replenished several times a day with fresh water. Would you want to drink water that has been sitting in a bowl for a few days? Nuff said! Don’t let your dog drink any water that could be contaminated. This could include chlorinated pool water, moldy water from puddles and ponds, or toilet water which can contain bacteria.

70 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

WELLNESS

IS YOUR DOG

BOWL SAFE?

Is your dog eating out of a plastic bowl made in China… …toxic chemicals are found in plastic bowls. are other alternatives to using plastic bowls such as: stainless steel, glass, l There ceramic, and wood bowls

l Best feeding bowl is a stainless steel bowl (easiest to keep clean and resist scratches) problem with using plastic bowls to feed your pet is that the toxic chemicals l The can leach into the pet bowl through scratches and crevices. And we all know

that dogs will keep licking the bowl till every last morsel of food is gone, and then lick some more just to be sure! Do you really want your dog to be licking toxic chemicals?

spend some time on the internet and do your own research into the toxins l Please and chemicals found in plastic bowls so you can become informed and educated

about how dangerous plastic bowls can be. It’s not only dangerous to feed your dog out of them, but also for your family’s health and wellbeing as well if you or your children eat off of plastic bowls or plates too!

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 71

FEATURED AUThOR

MICHELLE SATHE author of PIT STOPS and PIT STOPS 2

~ Michelle Sathe & Kara

By michelle Sathe

It was her freckled pink nose and sweet kisses that got me. I was a reporter covering a story on The Brittany Foundation, a no-kill dog rescue in Agua Dulce, California, when I met Loren. She sprang from her kennel, hugged my legs, and gave me the first of what would be many smooches. Loren was 2 years old, a stunning red and white pit bull rescued from a kill shelter. She quickly became my favorite dog at The Brittany Foundation where I started volunteering shortly after filming the story. While I own two wonderful male pit bull mixes, both of whom I found as strays, I’d never experienced the sheer onslaught of affection that Loren bestowed upon me. We’d hang out at the rescue and she would drape herself across my lap, the happiest girl in the world just to receive some attention. I fell in love. Since both my dogs were not friendly to other canines, I couldn’t adopt Loren. However, when I turned 40 and decided to take the great American road trip, I chose Loren as my companion. My goal was to try to find her a home, explore the issues surrounding bully breeds in America, and give

people a hands-on opportunity to interact with a very sweet pit bull. The result of our adventure was “Pit Stops: Crossing the Country with Loren the Rescue Bully,” my book released in October of 2010. While “Pit Stops” does have a very happy ending for Loren, it opened up a Pandora’s Box for me. I witnessed the tragic realities facing these dogs who are the most common canine victims of fighting, breeding, neglect, and abuse. From rural communities to inner cities, pit bulls make up anywhere from 50 to 80 percent of a shelter’s dog population and most of them don’t make it out alive. It’s heartbreaking, especially after knowing firsthand how wonderful pit bulls can be. Unfortunately, public perception of these dogs, usually amassed by inaccurate and irresponsible media reports, is not always positive. That’s why the efforts of the advocates, rescuers, and shelter workers I profile in “Pit Stops” are so important. These are everyday Americans fighting to restore the pit bull’s tarnished image. They educate with facts and combat hysteria. They train their dogs to be Canine Good

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

Citizens and therapy dogs. They provide resources to pet owners that want to do better, but often can’t afford to. They are my heroes. In August 2012, I will release “Pit Stops 2: Adventures with Kara” about my 2011 trip with an endearing, stout little pit bull. Though she has an incredibly sad beginning, Kara’s spirit is indomitable. She effortlessly charmed everyone we met on the road, from strangers to hardcore advocates. Writing “Pit Stops 2” allowed me to once again shine a light on the amazing people from coast to coast who help the Kara’s of this country every day. It also reminded me how big a difference one special dog can make and why it’s crucial to never stop fighting for those that have no voice.

For more information or to contact: Please like Pit Stops Books at www.facebook.com/#!/pitstopsbooks To order a signed copy of “Pit Stops” or information on “Pit Stops 2” Visit the Website at: www.pitstopsbook.com

DOG PARENT FAMILIES

How did Mellow become part of your family? I saw a picture of Mellow online and I immediately called the adoption center. They arranged to bring Mellow to my house so we could meet. They also told me that Mellow could not go in the van with other dogs to adoption sites because he was totally out of control. Apparently, Mellow would try and nip at everyone passing by, and would bark at everyone too. Mellow seemed to hate all dogs and people and they had a really hard time putting a leash on him. But when I met him and held him, we both fell in love!

What activities does Mellow do on the weekend? Mellow really enjoys going for a walk, so we walk 3 times a day around the block. In addition, we also go to my old neighborhood for a change of scenery and walk around that block a few times on the weekend as well.

What is Mellow's favorite toy or treat to eat or play with? Mellow is a total foodie and he only likes toys that he can eat! His favorite treat is the chicken and beef sticks that are sold at Trader Joes.

Where does Mellow sleep (his own bed, your bed)? My baby boy Mellow starts the evening off snoozing in my bed (keeping it warm), and then when I come into the bedroom he will leave and go into the living room. Mellow then cuddles on the sofa in “my spot,” where I had been sitting watching TV.

Does Mellow charity events?

attend

Mellow is not a social dog and doesn’t play well with others. But, occasionally I take him to one of my yoga classes where I teach at World Gym. Just the other day I placed him on a yoga mat

74 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

next to me with a cookie and some water, and he just sat there and meditated the entire time. It was so cute!

Why do you consider yourself a "dog parent?" It was very apparent from the first time Mellow and I met. They brought him to me where I sitting on my porch in the backyard, and I just picked him up and rocked him like a little baby. Since then, I am his mommy - and he is my son.

Become a friend on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/imakeitallhappen

DOG PARENT FAMILIES

Michelle Weirich with daughter Bridgette, and their 7 rescue dogs: Olive, Roman, Bolt, Annabelle, Stellaluna, Daisy, and Spencer (Spencer hid when the photo was taken)!

By Michelle Weirich

My dogs are a huge part of my life and I thoroughly enjoy their company. I feel that a dog is the best friend a person could ever have and I am always amazed at the unconditional love that you can receive from them. I am also amazed at how my smart dogs are! I know that all dogs feel pain, get lonely, show sadness, get jealous, feel fear, and just want to be loved and respected. That is why I am a dog advocate. I am a rescuer, transporter, protester, and dog lover. Having this many dogs is not easy, and I make a lot of sacrifices for them. But, since my children are grown, helping dogs is a very rewarding part of my life. Currently, my 7 dogs are all rescued. Olive came into my life when I was volunteering at Animal Control in Philadelphia. I started fostering her and then adopted her.

photo courtesy of Michelle Weirich

I met Roman when he was an 8-weekold puppy at the PSPCA. He was lying all alone in a large kennel and as soon as I picked him up – I knew I was taking him home. Bolt was also from the PSPCA. Bolt is a deaf Bull Terrier Mix and was taken from his owner for neglect, but the owner was fighting to get him back - so Bolt soon joined our pack! Annabelle was found emaciated and abandoned on the streets of Philadelphia. She just had a litter of puppies, she was very thin and filthy, and she was also deaf. I brought her home to foster her and she is currently up for adoption. Stellaluna was a skinny, scared little baby when she was handed to me by a shelter worker at the PSPCA. He asked me to please take her because she would never make it in the kennel. We named

her Stellaluna because she looks like the bat in the book, Stellaluna. Daisy was dumped by her owner at the rescue I volunteer for. She claimed that she didn't have time for her. She is a tiny 3-lb Maltese and she has no fear and will stand up to all other dogs in my house. And she loves to be carried and spoiled! Spencer was one of those dogs that you see in the shelter and just can’t leave. He had lived a horrible life and was kept in the basement for most of it. He had lost all his hair and his skin was very red and inflamed. I saw him and took him home to give him some TLC. After a few months of living with me, his hair is completely back and he has become quite the love bug. He is quite nippy, which is why it is hard to find him a permanent home.

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 75

hAPPILy EvER AFTER

TAG-A-ROO A SWEET LITTLE PIT BULL SURvIvES a 3rd degree Burn from a r o u T i n e S pay S u r g e r y

tag-a-roo wanteD to tell her own Story (in her own worDS)!

I went in to be spayed and thought everything was going to be fine in a few days, but my mommy noticed I had a spot of matted fur on my side when we got home. Two days later the little patch of fur fell off when my big brother petted me. There was a black spot of dead skin now. My mommy and daddy were so mad thinking the vet had somehow cut me. They brought me back to the vet the next day and the vet said

it was a reaction from the injection of rimadyl they had given me for pain. So the vet gave me some antibiotics in case it was infected and said that the spot might get bigger and that more hair might come off. The next day I started walking sideways and wouldn't go down the steps to go outside. I went back to the vet for a few hours so they could watch me. They did

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

a liver test and it was good, so the vet said I could go home. I went back again 2 days later because more spots of fur were falling off. That day, the vet still said it was a reaction to rimadyl and they told my mommy and daddy to put silver sulfadiazine cream on the black spots of dead skin. The silver cream is used on burns, they said it was not a burn, but it would still be good to use on the dead skin.

hAPPILy EvER AFTER PHoToS By nAnETTE AnD ASHlEy BAilEy (TAg'S MoMMy AnD DADDy)

Mommy started looking for all kind of info on the Internet and began talking to different vets online. Several people kept telling her it sounded like a burn. Some saw pictures and said it looked like a burn. I was feeling miserable and would not play and I was still walking funny and would not go down the steps, so mommy and daddy carried me outside. They would take turns sleeping with me on the couch because I was crying a lot. Mommy found a dermatologist vet near Denver and made an appointment. We drove 4 hours to see him and they shaved off all the fur around the area so they could get a better look at the entire affected area. There was a lot more black dead skin where the hair hadn’t fallen out yet and they thought it looked like a burn as well. They said doing a biopsy of a few different spots would be able to tell if I was allergic to rimadyl, or if the vet who spayed me had burnt me. They were so good to me and gave me antibiotics for my infection and they didn’t want me in pain so they gave me pain medicine too. A couple days later mommy took me back to the first vet where I got spayed so they could do a recheck and they didn’t seem happy about us going to the dermatologist. Mommy told them she was very glad that we went there because now that I was shaved she could see the whole area and put the

silver cream on better. Just then the dermatologist vet called and had the report back from my biopsy. They said I am not allergic to rimadyl and that I had 2nd and 3rd degree burns! Boy, was my mommy mad! She told the first vet the biopsy said it was a burn - and not a reaction to rimadyl. Then mommy got even more mad when that lady said my burn didn’t look that bad and they would treat it for free. They also said they had no idea how I could have got burnt. Mommy did say there was no way she would bring me back there since I was burnt from the microwave heat discs used on me after my spay surgery. Mommy and I have been going on the long car ride down to the nice dermatologist vet once a week. The pain was getting worse and I cried a lot even with the pain medicine (tramadol), so I got stronger pain medicine (morphine) and had to take that for a few days. I am healing now and most of the dead skin is off and new tissue is growing, although I will be going on the long car ride to have the rest of the dead skin surgically removed. Mommy has a lot of pretty shirts for me to wear so I don’t get sunburned, and by the time I am all healed I don’t think I will ever want to be naked since I look so cute in my shirts. I have the best mommy and daddy, they love me so much, and they will do whatever

they need to make sure I am always taken care of. Even though the pictures of me look a little gross, my mommy and daddy want people to know what a burn looks like so that other people aren't tricked from vets saying it is an allergic reaction to medicine. The vet was trying to play it off as a reaction so they wouldn't be responsible for treatment. They said treatment at their clinic would be free, but they were not going to pay for me to be treated anywhere else. Now mommy is talking to an attorney. Update: We had an attorney send a letter to the vet clinic where I was burned. After 6 weeks, we still didn’t receive a reply from the vet so we filed a claim in small claims court. Because I am a pup, I can’t sue for pain and suﬀering; only the amount of vet bills, medication, shirts, and travel expenses. I sincerely hope this vet clinic is no longer using the microwave heat disks after surgery. I hope that they never burn or hurt another animal in their care. If mistakes or accidents happen, please be honest and give proper treatment and don’t try and cover it up as something else.

To keep up-to-date with Tag’s story: Email Tag-a-roo at: tagaroo@rocketmail.com Become a fan on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Tag-a-roo-VetBurn-Awareness

American Dog Media | Summer 2012

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

photo by Kimberly Mockler

PARKER AND POPI WERE BOTH RESCUED FROM A HOARDER! Both dogs, Parker and Popi, were originally living in filthy conditions with a hoarder on Long Island, New York. They had been living alongside 53 other dogs, cats, doves, horses, and a goat; all of whom had been severely neglected. This hoarder was not able to properly care for the animals she had on her property, and thankfully, all the animals were rescued by the Suffolk County SPCA and Second Chance Wildlife Rescue. Popi’s dad, Nick Guginsky says, “When I walked into Second Chance Wildlife Rescue and saw all the dogs available for adoption, Popi was definitely one of my favorites. I adopted Popi in August of 2010 and he is an 11-year-old Chihuahua/Jack Russell Mix. Popi is now living a great life and even has his own Facebook page!”

photo by Nick Guginsky

Parker’s mom, Kimberly Mockler, is a teacher of the deaf/multi-disabled and also involved with deaf and blind dog rescue. When she first heard about Parker, who is an 8-year-old deaf

78 Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

and blind double dilute Rough Collie, Kimberly says, “I knew I had to adopt him and add him to my pack! I already had one deaf miniature Australian Shepherd and another deaf/blind Collie/Aussie mix. So in July of 2011 Parker came home with me. Parker is now being trained in K9 nosework and is a therapy dog with Paws for Friendship. He visits assisted living facilities, health care facilities, schools, and libraries. He is also a spokesdog for merle-to-merle breeding and deaf/blind dog awareness, and travels with me to educate the public about these amazing dogs at various pet events. Parker shows everyone that deaf and blind dogs can make wonderful pets, can be trained, and can live fulfilling, happy lives. The world is a better place because Parker is in it, and he is one of the friendliest, most social dogs you could ever meet!”

Become a fan of Popi at: www.facebook.com/Popis-Fan-Club

Become a fan of Parker at: www.facebook.com/Parkers-Fan-Club

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

ELLIOT’S

photo by Dan Dry of Power Creative

By Kelsey Westbrook Co-Founder of Saving Sunny, Inc

STORY

Elliot was found in a public park and picked up as a stray by a Louisville Animal Control Officer in February of 2012 (he was 4 months old). He was only using his back legs and scooting on his front two elbows. He was severely emaciated and it is believed that he was dumped in the park by a breeder.

euthanasia. For the sake of Elliot's life, we felt we should get another opinion.

Elliot was taken to the city shelter and the shelter called Saving Sunny, Inc. Saving Sunny, Inc., is a Louisville rescue organization that specializes in bully breeds, and the rehabilitation of those that are in danger of euthanasia based on medical or behavioral problems.

We attempted one surgery with Elliot, and repairing the front left leg was unsuccessful. However, the results from going into his leg actually showed us that with a healthy diet, his right front leg was actually popping back into place! He was beginning to have function of one of his front legs! If we could get his right front leg to a point where it was strong enough to hold weight, we could eventually amputate the front left leg, and Elliot could be a happy and healthy boy on three functioning legs!

When members of Saving Sunny came to evaluate Elliot, he looked like a puppy that was permanently stuck in a "play bow" position. He was swimming across the floor joyously, and didn't seem to be in any physical pain. We took Elliot to be evaluated by our general practice vets and his prognosis was grim. Our vet told us that he was born with a congenital birth defect in which his bone was not connected to his elbow "socket" and that his arthritis would be so painful that he would have no quality of life, so she recommended

We found a wonderful facility that specialized in orthopedic cases and birth defects. The specialists evaluated Elliot and told us that Elliot did have a chance at a happy and normal life and that we could operate and try to repair the legs.

We began a high-protein diet and weekly hydrotherapy appointments to strengthen the leg. After two months of fostering Elliot, we were finally able to take our first walk around the block, with Elliot walking the whole way on three legs! He actually began running across the yard without using

his bad leg. It was an absolutely beautiful and amazing transformation and the entire time Elliot had NO idea that he was different. On May 7th, 2012, Elliot went home with his "foster to adopt" family; James Saling and Angela Misick, and their pit bull Maya. His new mom is a physical therapist for specially-abled humans and loves to work with him at his hydrotherapy appointments. Angela says, “Elliot really puts life in perspective. The hand he was dealt doesn't stop him or slow him down for that matter. No matter how bad of a day we have, he always finds a way to put a smile on your face. It is such a wonderful gift to see him happy and to see him love so much. People could really learn a thing or two from Elliot. We take so much for granted and waste so much. Elliot seems to enjoy every moment of life. He is a rare gift indeed and we are blessed to be part of his family.”

For more information or to contact: Saving Sunny, Inc Visit the Website at: www.savingsunnyinc.org Become a fan on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/savingsunny

American Dog Media | Summer 2012 79

hAPPILy EvER AFTER PHoToS CourTESy oF AngEl CiTy PiT BullS

got her second chance… and a very happy endinG! “ONCE YOU CHOOSE HOPE, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.” ~CHRISTOPHER REEVE By eve-marie kuntzman, angel city pit BullS Director of funDraiSing

Things weren’t always so lucky for sweet Hope. While most people were enjoying their holiday preparations this past December, Hope was wandering the streets of South Los Angeles. Alone, cold, starving, and afraid, Hope eventually found herself upon the doorsteps of the city animal shelter. She was four years old, emaciated, and neglected, so you can imagine the excitement when the shelter workers found she had a microchip! Could this be a happy ending for Hope? Eagerly, the shelter staff contacted Hope’s family, only to hear them say, “We don’t want her anymore.” Despondent, the happy ending everyone was hoping for now seemed out of sight. That’s where her name became prophetic; you see, as the saying goes – even when you abandon hope, hope never abandons you. And the shelter workers didn’t abandon Hope, but had grown to love her very much. Thanks to a village of support, Hope prevailed, and Angel City Pit Bulls was able to rescue her just in time for Christmas.

Summer 2012 | American Dog Media

With her medical needs taken care of and a few much-needed pounds put on, a family contacted Angel City Pit Bulls wanting to meet Hope. It was love at first sight, and Hope was adopted! And in the true spirit of hope, not only has her life become a testament of never giving up, but she gets to pay it forward as well. You see, one of Hope’s human parents has cancer, and now it’s her turn to bring hope to the people who love her. Hope now spends her days full of happiness, surrounded by care, compassion, and love in a quiet seaside town in California. She’s become part of a wonderful family with two adoring human parents, three human siblings, a canine sister named Camille, and her future is looking bright. Hope got her second chance, and a very happy ending!

For more information or to make a donation: Visit: www.angelcitypits.org Email: info@angelcitypits.org Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/angelcitypitbulls

hAPPILy EvER AFTER

BRODIE’S

y r o t S

PHoToS CourTESy oF AngEl CiTy PiT BullS

By eve-marie kuntzman, angel city pit BullS Director of funDraiSing

The world of animal rescue is not for the faint of heart. In this business, you get to see the very best that humanity has to offer, and sadly, sometimes you see the very worst as well. To be a success, one must apply the “glass half full” type of mentality through all walks of this life. Fortunately, there are so many good samaritans out there, from so many different places, and often where you least expect to find them. Brodie and his story is an example of the great expanse of that spectrum of humanity. Brodie is a sweet, happy-golucky puppy who didn’t get the best start in his young life. He was found alone on the streets, beaten and broken, and taken to a local animal shelter. Upon inspection by a veterinarian, he was found to be suffering a fractured jaw. But, that’s not all; the evidence was conclusive that the injuries he suffered came at the hands of a heartless human. From that awful side of the spectrum, however, Brodie has since catapulted to the opposite extreme. Angel City Pit Bulls was alerted of his plight and quickly came to his rescue. Thanks to the generosity and talents of comedienne Rebecca Corry, the funds were poised and ready to take care of Brodie’s surgical needs and time to

recover. Rebecca Corry is not an animal rescuer herself; she is a talented performer who seeks avenues to transform her gifts into helping others. As luck would have it, it was recently her birthday and using the website, www.causes.com, she put out a plea to her fans and followers to help make her birthday wish come true – and that wish was to raise funds to donate to Angel City Pit Bulls to help dogs like Brodie. Her generosity raised a handsome sum, and thanks to her efforts, Brodie is well on his way to the life he deserves. The spectrum of humanity will always be out there, something with which we all must contend. Luckily for Brodie, there are more hearts like those of Rebecca and her fans, that are chockfull and eager to help. Rebecca’s talents bring smiles and laughter to everyone she meets, and now it is her fans who in turn have brought smiles as well – to dogs like Brodie and to the people who continue to be inspired by such generosity. Brodie is currently in a foster home during his recovery and will be available for adoption in August. Brodie is learning house manners, basic training, and loves to play with other dogs!

For more information or to make a donation: Visit: www.angelcitypits.org

Email: info@angelcitypits.org Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/angelcitypitbulls

American Dog Media | Summer 2012

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.

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