May/June 2007 by OllieDog Media

May | June 2007 Volume 2 | Issue 3

Ahh…Massage! Road Trippin’ with Rover I Bought my Dog a King Size Bed Who’s the Boss? !

EE R F

Have you checked us out online lately?

Go ahead – Take a whiff !

Dry Dog Instant Clean gets rid of the stink after a long, hot day of play.

Events, Barking News, Pet-Friendly Business Listings and More!

www.doglivingmagazine.com

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Table of Contents p. 13

p. 18

Porters Neck Veterinary Hospital

p. 29

p. 28

Drs. Ron & Sharon Harris Dr. Laurel Collier Dr. Rebecca Simmons We’ll Treat Your Pet Like One Of Our Own

686-6297 8129 Market St.

th 1/10 Mile South of Porters Neck Shopping Center Hidden behind Crystal Blue Car Wash & True 2 Form

Mon.-Fri. 8am-6pm Sat. 8am-12noon

Features A War, A Marine, A Little Dog and A Promise p.13 From Baghdad With Love is not your typical war story

My Kingdom for a Dog p. 15

House hunting with your pooch in mind

Paw Jam 2007 p. 17 Music, food, fun and more!

By the Numbers p. 17

People who have dogs are nicer than people who don’t (or so the survey says)

Road Trippin’ with Rover p. 20 We’ll help get you and your dog prepared for road trips long and short

Ahh…Massage p. 22

Both people and pets can benefit

Adoption Options p. 24

Thinking of adding to your family?

Hopping Down the Winding Road Home p. 29 The story of Binky La Rue

Who’s the Boss? p. 32

Establishing leadership with the Pack Theory v. Learning Theory

In Every Issue

Family Owned & Operated

Ollie’s Corner p. 8 Please don’t call me pretty

Happenings p. 9 See what pet-friendly event is coming to a location near you

DOGhealth p. 11 Just what the heck is Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine?

DOGoutings p. 12

Where playtime is the foundation, not an extra!

Southport River Walk

Ask August p. 14 August may have found a distant relative

Unleashed p. 18 Bill and Diane Caster

People Treats p. 23 The Ivy Cottage

New! PET SITTING Doggie Day Care Self Serve and Professional Grooming Inside and Outside Play Areas

Hot! Dog p. 26 We’ve sniffed out the hottest products for you and your pet

140 Midway Road, Bolivia 910-253-3534

4621 Market Street | 910.392.0909 www.giveadogaboneplayspa.com

www.adamsfolly.com Mon-Fri, 9am-12, 3pm-6pm Sat & Sun, 9am-11am, 3pm-5pm

Chew On This with Amanda Hearring Black p. 27 I bought my dog a king size bed

On The Cover Ahh…Massage!.....p. 22 Road Trippin’ with Rover.....p. 20 I Bought my Dog a King Size Bed.....p. 27 Who’s the Boss?.....p. 32

Tail Waggers p. 28 Outdoor dog products

DOGnews p. 31 Get the scoop

Cover Photo: Jacob Rudolph Cover Model: Dakota Dakota was more than ready for his time in the spotlight. Bounding down the beach, digging in the sand and just having a good old time, he caught the attention of many beachgoers. What a handsome dog!

Dogs On Film p. 33 Our puparazzi are always on the lookout for dogs about town

Doghouse Poll p. 34 Spending Habits

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So good, even the cats are shouting about it! Get Your Subscription Today! 1 Year (6 issues) only $24 Call 910-452-3775, Subscribe online at www.doglivingmagazine.com or Fill out the form below: Name: Address: City: State: Zip: Phone: Make checks payable to: OllieDog Media P.O. Box 1914 Wilmington, NC 28402

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High Cotton Painting & Photography

Assistant Editors Ollie and August

We create personalized portraits of your companions that capture their individual personality, character and heart in a time-piece that will last forever.

Graphic Design Dustin Keipper

Specializing in mediums of pastel, colored pencil, water-color

Contributing Writers Amanda Hearring Black Elysa Cooper Carole Raphael Davis Whitney Doremus Breanne Elrod K. Gwendolyn Brad Kerr, DVM Zack Moser Anna Platz Phodography Jacb Rudolph Cheryl Snyder Marketing & Promotion John Leonard Wendy J. Circulation Manager John Leonard

910-471-2658 Email: runningmhorses@intrstar.net Visit us online at www.highcottonhorsefarm.com/painting

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Distribution Wendy J. Ryan Young Intern Zack Moser A publication of OllieDog Media, Inc. www.doglivingmagazine.com info@doglivingmagazine.com P.O. Box 1914 Wilmington, NC 28402 910-452-3775 Subscriptions: A one-year subscription is only $24. Please call 910452-3775 or go to www.doglivingmagazine.com to subscribe. Advertising: Reach one of the fastest-growing demographics in America. Call 910-452-3775 or check out www.doglivingmagazine.com. Submissions: We are always happy to hear from writers, photographers and illustrators. Please call 910-452-3775 or email info@doglivingmagazine.com for submission guidelines. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents of this magazine is prohibited without written permission of the publisher ©2007 by OllieDog Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved Disclaimer: The information provided by Dog Living Magazine is intended for informational, educational and/or entertainment purposes only. The content is not intended to be nor is it a substitute for professional advice. It may be necessary to consult your pet’s veterinarian regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations in this publication. All materials and services in this publication are provided “as is” without any representations or warranties. Neither Dog Living Magazine nor its affiliates, nor any of their respective agents, employees, advertisers or writers shall be liable to anyone for any inaccuracy, error, omission, timeliness, completeness, deletion, defect or failure of performance. OllieDog Media, Inc. reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason.

May | June 2007

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DOGhappenings For an up-to-date listing of events, visit www.doglivingmagazine.com MAY

Ollieʼs Corner

May 3 7pm BARK Meeting

Canine Academy, Bolivia – Brunswick Area Responsible K-9’s meets the first Thursday of every month at Canine Academy in Bolivia. BARK’s mission is to educate and promote responsible pet ownership as well as to aid and assist pet owners in need. For more information call 910-253-7723 or visit www.canineacademy.us.

May 4-6 call for time Spring Adoption Event at Petsmart

Hooray for summertime! I could sit in the sun for hours. And that’s strange, because I’m a black dog and you’d think I’d get too hot. But I don’t, so that’s good. Good things are happening besides the warm weather for this issue. Paw Jam happens in June! It’s hot as, um…….a black dog on a sunny patio, but it’s always a good time. Plus, they always have plenty of water stations and doggy pools to keep your best friend cool. But the coolest thing is that it only cost five bucks and all proceeds benefit rescue groups in the area. Since I last wrote, my mom had a scare. She absolutely freaked out when she felt something on my chest one day. I didn’t notice the lump at all, I was just happy to have my chest rubbed. She insisted on taking me into the vet, so I went along. I was just happy to be going for a car ride. When we got to the vet he jabbed my chest with a needle – OUCH! But of course I didn’t even flinch even though I was howling on the inside. I may whine like a baby in front of my mom, but didn’t want to lose my cool in front of Dr. LaCroix. Dr. LaCroix left the room to look at what he took out of me with his needle. When he returned, he told my mom she should take a look. He said the cells were - drum roll here - actually quite pretty. Pretty! True, I’m a somewhat effeminate dog, but I don’t want to be called pretty, even if you are just talking about my cells. Weird. According to Dr. LaCroix, however, pretty was a good thing. Turns out it was just a fatty tumor. Doesn’t sound too pleasant, but it’s harmless. Mom was very relieved. It’s a good reminder that if you feel a lump, get it tested. My mom heard a sad story about a vet who told a client the lump he found was “nothing to worry about,” but didn’t test it. A year later, several cancerous lumps came up and the prognosis wasn’t good. Well, enough of scary and sad news. This issue is jam-packed so you better get to readin’! Thanks again for being the absolute coolest readers on the planet. As Scooby Doo would say, “Rog Reople Rule!” Woof!

Ollie Assistant Editor

May | June 2007

Petsmart Wilmington - Columbus Humane Society has been asked to take position as the lead group in this important annual event. It’s three days of fun with kiddie happenings, crafts, educational speakers, spay/ neuter awareness and more. Tons of adorable puppies and kittens as well as mature pets are available for adoption from many local pet rescue groups. Email wayne@columbushumanesociety.org for more information.

May 5 8am, Registration Begins Show-N-Go

Empie Park, Wilmington – The Azalea Dog Training Club is holding this Show-N-Go with registration from 8am-10am and calling beginning at 10:30am. For more info email Marny Temple at marny3grs@ec.rr.com.

May 19 1pm-3pm Cape Fear Golden Retriever Rescue Play Date Meadowsweet, Wilmington – Call 910-791-5001 for more information.

May 19 by appointment Photo/Art Paintings by Gloria Madill

The Puppy Palace, Wilmington – It’s not just a photo and it’s not just a water color painting…It’s a photo/art painting of your best furry friend! Call 910-395-4663 to make your appointment for your very own watercolor or canvas photo/art painting. Prices start at just $55.00.

May 20 2pm-5pm Culture & Canines

Cameron Art Museum, Wilmington – Join Dog Living Magazine for an afternoon of art, fun and socializing in the courtyard at the Cameron Art Museum. All good dogs and their people are welcome! For more details call 910-452-3775 or visit www.doglivingmagazine.com.

Weekends in May 10am-5pm Adopt-an-Angel Pet Adoptions

Petco, Wilmington – Homeless dogs, puppies, cats and kittens will be looking for that special someone to take them home. All animals have been spayed/neutered with age appropriate shots. They can always use volunteers! Call Marlo at 910-616-3708.

Saturdays in May 11am-2pm Paws Place Adoptions

Cool Dogs & Crazy Cats, Southport – A shelter is no place for a dog so stop by and check out these amazing dogs from Paws Place that need a place to call home. 910-845-PAWS

JUNE June 7 7pm BARK Meeting

June 9 10am-5pm Paw Jam 2007

Battleship Park, Wilmington – This annual event gets bigger every year! Enjoy a day of fun and music with your dog to raise money for area shelters and rescue groups. Want to be a vendor? Space is still available! How about becoming a volunteer? Call 259-7549, 2321165 or 232-3832.

June 23 9am Show-N-Go

Azalea Dog Training Club, Hampstead – This Show-NGo will be at ADTC’s climate contolled training facility in Traditional and Rally Obedience. For more info email Marny Temple at marny3grs@ec.rr.com.

ownership as well as to aid and assist pet owners in need. For more information call 910-253-7723 or visit www.canineacademy.us.

July 30 7pm CFGRR Quarterly Meeting

Location TBA – Call 910-791-5001 for more information.

Weekends in July 10am-5pm Adopt-an-Angel Pet Adoptions

Saturdays in July 11am-2pm Paws Place Adoptions

Cool Dogs & Crazy Cats, Southport – A shelter is no place for a dog so stop by and check out these amazing dogs from Paws Place that need a place to call home. 910-845-PAWS

AUGUST August 2 7pm BARK Meeting

Weekends in June 10am-5pm Adopt-an-Angel Pet Adoptions

Saturdays in June 11am-2pm Paws Place Adoptions

Cool Dogs & Crazy Cats, Southport – A shelter is no place for a dog so stop by and check out these amazing dogs from Paws Place that need a place to call home. 910-845-PAWS

Insured & Bonded American Red Cross Pet CPR & First Aid Certified • Pet

JULY July 5 7pm BARK Meeting

Canine Academy, Bolivia – Brunswick Area Responsible K-9’s meets the first Thursday of every month at Canine Academy in Bolivia. BARK’s mission is to educate and promote responsible pet

Feeding & Watering • • Dog Walking • • Pet Play/Cuddle Time • • Pet Transportation • • Field Trips • • Overnight Stays •

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DOGhealth

August 4-9 n/a Cruise for the Dogs

Puppies as Pincushions!

Enjoy a 5-day cruise to the Caribbean for $500 per person (includes all taxes and fees) with proceeds to benefit the Sunburst Foundation. You’ll sail from Tampa, Florida to the Grand Cayman Islands and Mexico. Call 910-313-1068 for details and reservations.

August 18 11am-1pm CFGRR Meet and Greet

the patient. There are literally hundreds of herbal formulae, some with only three or four herbs, and some with twenty or more herbs.

Aunt Kerry’s Pet Stop, Wilmington – Come mingle with Cape Fear Golden Retriever Rescue’s adoptable pooches.

Weekends in August 10am-5pm Adopt-an-Angel Pet Adoptions

Saturdays in August 11am-2pm Paws Place Adoptions

Call us at 910-452-3775 or email sales@doglivingmagazine.com

Cool Dogs & Crazy Cats, Southport – A shelter is no place for a dog so stop by and check out these amazing dogs from Paws Place that need a place to call home. 910845-PAWS Got an upcoming pet-friendly event? Send your info to events@doglivingmagazin e.com or to Happenings, P.O. Box 1914, Wilmington, NC 28402. Please include: Organization Name, Contact (name and phone), Brief Description of Event, Date/ Time/Place.

Be Seen. Advertise in Dog Living.

Can you really perform acupuncture on animals? What exactly is holistic medicine and can it complement traditional veterinary care?

Acupuncture for animals is an increasingly popular method of caring for pets, exotic animals, and horses. The use of acupuncture in the West has been on the rise since the early 1970’s, when increased communication between China and the United States began. However, acupuncture has been around for a very long time - historical records suggest 8,000 years. Initially, acupuncture was used only for human health care. It is believed that acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine have been used for animal health care for 3,000 years or more. In Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) there are several modalities used on animals: acupuncture, herbal medicine, food therapy, and Tui-na, (chiropractic manipulation of the patient). Acupuncture involves the placement of narrow-gauge stainless steel needles in acupuncture points, which are located on acupuncture meridians. Acupuncture meridians are pathways on the surface of the body. The twelve main acupuncture meridians, and most of the acupuncture points used on animals, were transposed onto animal anatomy after first being discovered by experimentation on humans. The goal of acupuncture is to overcome the blockage of Qi (prounounced “chee”) in the acupuncture meridians. Qi blockage causes pain. In addition, TCVM can help supply Qi when there is a deficiency. Qi is defined as the vital life force in living beings. Because Qi cannot yet be measured, there are allopathic (Western medicine) practitioners who doubt its existence. However, the results obtained by acupuncture speak strongly for the existence and vital force of Qi. Chinese Herbal medicine practice involves choosing a single herb, or more commonly, an herbal formula to treat

May | June 2007

By: Dr. Brad Kerr, Wellspring Holistic Veterinary Care

How does the practitioner choose an herbal formula, or select the acupuncture points to treat? The answer differs with each patient, which is one of the main differences between TCVM and Western Medicine. In TCVM, each patient is evaluated by “pattern differentiation”, which means that the individual patient, rather than the disease signs, is evaluated. The acupuncture treatment and herbal formula are chosen depending on this evaluation. For example, two patients might have the same outward signs in Western Medicine and both be treated with antibiotics, whereas, in TCVM, these two patients might be treated differently - one for an excess pattern, the other for Qi stagnation. Both problems might look the same externally, but TCVM would differentiate them by looking at different diagnostic tools. The diagnostic methods used in TCVM include looking at the animal’s tongue (tongue diagnosis), feeling the femoral artery pulse (pulse diagnosis), checking specific acupuncture points along the back and on the underside of the body (alarm point diagnosis), and by questioning the pet owner about the different personality traits of the animal using Five Elements theory. Using all of these diagnostic approaches, combined with a thorough physical examination and history from the pet owner, the TCVM practitioner is able to reach a pattern diagnosis and prescribe the proper treatment regimen. In addition, TCVM is very safe. Side effects from TCVM treatments are usually limited to an occasional patient having stomach upset or diarrhea, in which case the herbal formula dose is reduced until the problem is corrected. Finally, TCVM is very compatible with routine veterinary care. It is possible, and in some cases, necessary to combine the two. For this reason, I like to refer to TCVM as Complementary Medicine rather than Alternative Medicine. Dr. Brad Kerr is a native of Indiana and a 1987 graduate of Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine. His interest in acupuncture stems from knowing a war veteran who could only control pain from his injuries by getting acupuncture treatments. Dr. Kerr became certified in veterinary acupuncture in 2002 and completed training in Chinese Herbal Medicine in 2005. He currently co-owns Wellspring Holistic Veterinary Care along with his wife, Dr. Betsy Burbank. Got a question for the Vet? Send an email to AskTheVet@doglivingmagazine.com or snail mail your question to Ask The Vet, P.O. Box 1914, Wilmington, NC 28402. www.doglivingmagazine.com

DOGoutings

A War, A Marine, A Little Dog and A Promise Scenery: Difficulty: Easy Length: Less than 1 mile

Southport River Walk

Southport is a lovely town to explore with your dog and one of the best walks around is down at the waterfront. Flanked by Kingsley Park on one end and Caswell Street on the other, the River Walk is perfect for a leisurely stroll with your pooch. During low tide, you can also step down off the sidewalk to the sand and let your dog explore the water. During high tide, however, you won’t find any beach!

Enjoy the sand at low tide.

Meet new friends along the way!

If you’d like to explore the town a little more, stop by the Visitors’ Center at 113 West Moore Street and pick up a map for a self-guided walking tour. There’s plenty to see including shops, historic homes and parks. The Southport-Fort Fisher ferry is a great way to get to Southport if you’re coming from New Hanover County. Dogs aren’t allowed inside the lounge, but they are welcome in other areas as long as they’re on a leash. Once you get off the ferry, you can just follow NC 211 into downtown Southport.

Benches are available for you to sit and take in the view.

Scenery Ratings: 1 paw – Nothing much to look at 2 paws – Pleasant enough 3 paws – Some great views 4 paws – Gorgeous scenery throughout the trail

May | June 2007

Directions: The River Walk is located in downtown Southport. From Highway 133, take a left onto Howe Street and follow it all the way to the water. From other points in Brunswick County, take NC 211 (Southport-Supply Road) into Southport where the road becomes Howe Street.

Jay Kopelman now resides in La Jolla, California, but in November of 2004, he was in Iraq battling insurgents in Fallujah for control of the city. After entering an abandoned house, Marines hear something or someone rustling around. Expecting to come face to face with an insurgent, they carry on and prepare to open fire. But instead of an insurgent, they find a tiny, harmless puppy. Although military law prohibits keeping of pets, the Marines “de-flea him with kerosene, deworm him with chewing tobacco and fill him up on MREs.” Lt. Col. Kopelman tells the story of the little dog’s rescue in his book, From Baghdad, With Love. But this book is about a lot more than a little dog. Have you always been an animal lover? I guess so. Certainly not an animal activist, but dogs are special. What was it about this little dog that made you want to take it home? What happened is when the marines found Lava, I asked them what they wanted to do. They wanted him to go to Hawaii, but they’ve got these crazy quarantine laws there. I said here’s what I’ll do for you, I’ll make sure this dog gets to the U.S. Now that I’d made a promise to them, I kept that promise. How determined were you to get this dog to the US? I was going to keep my promise to the marines. As a leader your word is your bond and it’s how you establish confidence.

This was against all rules. How did the military feel about it? It wasn’t a huge secret, it was just something that for whatever reason we were able to do. This is against the rules, and there are some good reasons for those rules, but in Lava’s case it was just overlooked. It wasn’t done using military aircraft and we never asked the military to help in any way. It was done with civilians and contractors. What do you think Lava symbolized for you and the other soldiers? He’s a symbol of hope. He represents in a smaller way what everybody hopes for in Iraq. He shows that if you persevere, you can do anything. And how is Lava doing now? Great! Do you think he realizes what you’ve done for him? No, I don’t’ think he has any idea! What do you hope readers get from the book? It is a story of hope and it shows that if you work hard enough at something, almost anything is possible. I would also hope that [readers] have a better understanding of what marines and soldiers are going through in Iraq. Jay is currently collecting stories for a new book he plans to write about members of the armed forces with similar experiences. To find out more information on From Baghdad, With Love, go to www.jaykopelman.com.

Historic homes and quaint shops line each street.

Difficulty Ratings: Easy – Relatively flat terrain with no obstacles Moderate – Some hills and/or difficult terrain Hard – Frequent elevation changes (some steep) and/or difficult terrain Very Hard! – Only dogs and people that exercise often should attempt these trails! www.doglivingmagazine.com

Ask August

Buying a home comes with a lot of decision making. Just ask Tyler Johnston. “I wanted to be closer to the beach. My husband wanted to be closer to work. And Monty needed to be close to a good daycare facility,” says Johnston. But that’s only the beginning. The Johnston’s also needed to find a home with a fenced-in yard, a bedroom on the first floor for Monty (he’s not good with stairs) and they were looking for a neighborhood with lots of children.

Dear Assistant Editor,

Dear August, I was just perusing the latest issue of your magazine and couldn’t help but notice from your head shot that our faces are strikingly similar. Could we possibly be siblings? Originally, I was picked up on I-95 and by the grace of God and some fine people (including several foster folks) I ended up at a no-kill shelter. My humans adopted me in January 2005 and this St. Patrick’s Day I’ll celebrate my 3rd birthday. I was wondering what your story is? Anyway, I’ve enclosed a photo of me so you can check out the similarities. Road Rover, North Carolina Dear Road Rover, Wow! We do look alike and I certainly enjoyed meeting you at the Carolina Canines walk in March! I came from the depths of Duplin County and found my adoptive parents in July of 2005. Don’t ask me why I became “August,” I guess they didn’t like the name “July.” I was lucky enough to become Assistant Editor when my mom started this magazine last year. It’s a pretty cool job if I do say so myself!

August and Melee…Distant Cousins?

I just got an eight-month-old female boxer puppy. She has a problem with going to the bathroom in the house. I discipline her everytime she does it, but she still does it! I have taken her to my vet to check for a UTI, but the vet says she doesn’t have one. I take her outside at least once or twice an hour. What should I do because she is driving me crazy? Thanks for your time and I look forward to your response. Thanks, Going Crazy, North Carolina Dear Going Crazy, First of all – Don’t go crazy! I am very familiar with your problem because I did the same thing when I came to live with my humans. Puppies normally need to relieve themselves between six and eight times a day. You said your vet told you your pup doesn’t have a UTI, but make sure that all other medical possibilities are ruled out. If your vet says it’s not medical, then there are a couple of things you can do to try and correct this behavior. As with all training, it’s going to take a lot of patience on your part, that’s just how it is! First of all, monitor how much water your pup is drinking. Again, you need to make sure there’s no medical reason for your pup being thirsty! We went to the experts for this one, consulting with trainer Whitney Doremus. Here’s what she said: First of all you’ll need to get her a crate. She will be in this crate anytime you can’t have your eyes on her. When she is out of the crate in the house you will have her tied to you with your eyes on her AT ALL TIMES. If she makes a mistake inside you will gently say “AAAHHH AAAHHH” and escort her outside. Hopefully she will finish so you can reward her. She will only understand your rewards and corrections if they happen AS SOON AS SHE GOES. Regardless of whether she makes a mistake or not, write down what time she went. You will probably find that she is on a regular schedule and then you can get her out before she goes. Always reward her with a really special treat when she potties outside. You also need to make sure she is on a consistent feeding schedule. If you know when it went in you will know when it will come out. Always plan for a potty break after she wakes up and when she is particularly active. Don’t give up on her. Good supervision and management will solve the problem.

August loves mail from doggies and humans! If you have a question you’d like to ask, just email her at AskAugust@doglivingmagazine.com or snail mail to Ask August, P.O. Box 1914, Wilmington, NC, 28402.

“Yes, I know. Most of the ‘must haves’ on our list revolved around our baby Monty,” Johnston says. So it’s only natural that the Johnston’s were thinking ahead and wanted to be near a good school when they were ready to send Monty for his education. Actually, Mrs. Johnston used the word ‘school’, but most people would call it a training facility. You see, Monty is the couple’s threemonth-old Boston Terrier. The Johnston’s aren’t afraid to say they put most of their own needs aside when they were house-hunting to make sure the home they picked was appropriate for their dog. And they’re not alone. Statistics show a growing trend of single professionals, young couples and empty-nesters who think of their dog as their child. And when you look at it that way, it makes sense to consider the needs of your littlest family member when choosing a new home. “It came down to a house with my dream kitchen, but no yard and a house with a kitchen that needed a little remodeling, but it had a huge, fenced-in yard,” says Johnston, “You can guess which one we went with.” Local realtors say it’s not unusual to have the family pooch come along to look at prospective houses, but most people are not as extreme as the Johnston’s when it comes to requirements for their dog. Maureen Mutschler is a part of Century 21 Sweyer’s Fine Home and Estates team. She says homebuyers with dogs should be looking for certain amenities. “I think the yard is a priority,” Mutschler suggests, “I would definitely look for something fenced-in with an easily accessible yard.” She also says it’s important that buyers make sure they have reviewed the restrictions and covenants of the neighborhood. Monty just celebrated his first birthday, enjoys his friends at a nearby doggy daycare and is almost finished with his second session of obedience school. The Johnston’s say he enjoys his yard and his first floor bedroom and they’re happy with their choice of homes. “All we need to do now is remodel the kitchen,” says Johnston, “But we’ve got to make sure our new kitchen has everything that Monty will need.”

Disclaimer: Ask August is provided for entertainment purposes only. For health or behavioral problems with your pet, you should consult with your vet or a behavioral specialist.

May | June 2007

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Your Dog Wants to Rock, Too

MILAM HARDWARE

By Zack Moser

Ladies, gentlemen and dogs:

We’ve got dog food and more! Mike Milam 910-259-5200 910-367-6005

PAW Jam is a day of fun and music at Battlefield Park for dogs and their humans. Food, demonstrations, games and contests will be at your disposal all day, and there will also be live bands. Animal-friendly organizations will have booths set up with information on how you can help their causes.

The first Paw Jam, Klingel said, was planned in only three months, and was almost rained out. The stage designated for the attending bands had no roof, so there was no way to even set up due to the damage that the precipitation would cause. A few people, however, not wanting to see this event fail, rushed home, returned with friends and instruments, and played in the covered gazebo. Thanks to the impromptu performances, the inaugural Paw Jam was a hit!

This is the sixth annual PAW Jam, and the event gets bigger each year. Blues band Tommy B and the Stingers and folk-rockers L-Shape Lot have headlined each of the past events and it is anticipated that they will perform once again.

Since then, the weather has been kinder, but the bands still play from the gazebo. The PAWS board has since doubled in number, and planning for 2007 began late last year, as the attendance and participation of this year figures to trounce the original.

PAWS (Pets Are Worth Saving) of NC is a non-profit organization that raises money for no-kill shelters in Southeastern North Carolina. Within the last year, the group has re-formed to host the event that originally inspired the organization’s formation six years ago. PAWS President Barry Klingel recalled that first year as a success, but not in the anticipated sense.

Tickets are only five dollars (dogs admitted free with a paying human) and all proceeds benefit local, no-kill animal rescues. To find out how you can volunteer or for more information, call 910-259-7549 or visit www.PawJam.net.

Saturday, June 9, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., PAWS of NC will host Paw Jam 2007!

315 Hwy 117s Burgaw, NC 28425

PURINA

Voted Best Alternative Medicine 2006, Encore Readers Choice Awards

By The Numbers

A survey conducted by FunStuffForDogs.com found that more than one in three dog owners said if they had to choose between never having another dog or never having another boyfriend/girlfriend again, they would choose the latter. Lisa Woody, President of FunStuffForDogs.com said she wanted to find out just how much dogs mean to their people in today’s world.

At Bradley Square 5629 Oleander Drive Wilmington 910-794-9121 Select from prints in stock or bring us your favorite print and we can custom frame it to match your style.

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May | June 2007

• 70% say that people who have dogs (or wish to) are generally “better, nicer people” than those who do not. • More than half say that their dogs make them more sociable than they would be if they did not have dogs. • Nine out of 10 select a home (and seven out of 10 select a vehicle) by considering their dog’s needs. • Nearly half would give up 10% of their salary in exchange for being able to take their dogs to work.

I like most dogs better than I like most people My dog makes me more sociable than I would be without a dog People who have dogs (or wish to) are generally better, nicer people than those who do not have/do not want to have dogs If dogs were allowed more places, I would take my dog with me everywhere Having a dog is preferable to having a child I would give up 10% of my salary if I could take my dog to work I take into consideration my dog’s needs when I purchase a home or rent an apartment I take into consideration my dog’s needs when I purchase a vehicle I have delayed purchases for myself so that I could purchase something for my dog

69% 55% 70% 84% 46% 45% 91% 73% 48%

*Percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole number

About FunStuffForDogs.com

FunStuffForDogs.com is an online retailer based in Dallas Texas. The company is owned by Uptown Dog Club, Inc. and is in its fourth year. FunStuffForDogs.com sells off-beat products for dogs, including puppy shower supplies. www.doglivingmagazine.com

Bill and Diane Caster

Unleashed By Suzanne Jalot

If you’re not familiar with Bill Caster, he’s certainly familiar with many of you dog lovers! Caster is Chairman of the New Hanover County Commissioners and he received a big stack of emails earlier this year when the county was considering amending the law on tethering your dog. “When you get into pets, people get passionate,” says Caster.

wanted.” Scooter goes everywhere and he’s even got his own car seat that keeps him safe and snug. “He loves to ride in the car,” says Diane. Diane takes him to the dog park all the time and his favorite playmate is her daughter’s cat. “They play all day long,” she says. Diane is allergic to cats but when asked what she would do if she suddenly became allergic to dogs she says she’d have him anyway, “I’d live on antihistamines if I had to.” The Casters say little Scooter doesn’t get into a lot of trouble, but he does have one vice. “He gets into the toilet paper,” Diane says, “We’ve gone through a tremendous amount of toilet paper since we got him!”

And is the dog allowed on the furniture in the Caster residence? “Oh gosh yeah,” says Bill, “I can’t get on it, but he can!” Scooter also ends up in his parents’ bed by the end of the night. “He starts out in his own bed,” says Diane, “But he doesn’t take up too much room in our bed and he’s spoiled rotten.” Diane is a member of a local singing group called the Harmonybelles and coincidentally, they’re new program is about dogs. “It’s all about why you have dogs and why they’re good for you,” Diane says. And why do the Casters think dogs are good for you? “It’s unconditional love and they’re great company,” says Diane as Bill agrees. We couldn’t have put it any better ourselves.

Bill and his wife Diane are certainly passionate about their dog ‘Scooter.’ Although the day we visited, Diane told us Scooter was a little embarrassed about a haircut he had gotten a month or two earlier. “They shaved him,” she said, “Here it was the middle of winter and he’s got no hair.” We’re happy to report that his hair seems to be growing in nicely. After having to put down their lab mix, Diane said her granddaughters convinced her to take an online test about dogs to find out what kind of dog would best fit in the Caster household. The results pointed to a poodle mix. So they did some more research and decided that a ‘Schnoodle’, a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle, was just what they wanted. Scooter won their hearts and now at 10 months old he’s comfortably settled into a routine. “Scooter and I take a walk every morning at 6:30am,” says Bill, “We walk twice a day, it’s part of our exercise program.” Dad may get up to walk him every morning, but Scooter is definitely a mama’s boy. “He’s definitely mine,” says Diane, “He follows me everyplace I go and he’s definitely a lap dog, which is what I

May | June 2007

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people? It’s preferable to have a licensed driver at the wheel while you conduct riding etiquette school.) If you have more than one puppy, do not try to teach them both at the same time. Their attention will be directed toward each other and not on you. Soon they will know how to behave in the car and can receive a small pat or the words, “Good dog!” from their happy and relaxed owner. Hopefully there will be signs of progress and your puppy will get the idea that trips in the car are normal occurrences and are not constructed for playing and romping. The golden rule of traveling with your pet is to have an ID tag or another kind of identification securely on the dog’s collar or around its neck. Hundreds of dogs end up in shelters simply because their owners never dreamed that the dog would get loose or become lost on a trip. There are few disasters in a person’s life that are worse than having to drive off without a pet because every locating method and recovery has failed. This kind of tragedy will haunt you for the rest of your life. Don’t let it happen! Get an ID tag!

Road Trippin’ with Rover By Breanne Elrod

So you just got a new puppy

and your annual road trip to your cousin’s house is coming up soon. You don’t want to leave him at home, but he will take a lot of work unless he’s used to the car by then. So what do you do? Here are a few tips for traveling with your dog whether he’s a brand new pup or fully grown. Spend some time in the car with him while the engine is off and the car is parked. It might take a little longer since he may already have become fearful of cars. Tiny treats will assure your dog that cars are neat places for snacking. After a few practice sessions, do the same routine with the engine running in a well-ventilated area (NOT in the garage). Do not get all excited about how great he’s doing and be overly praising. If you do, your pup will think being in the car is a big deal - we don’t want that. If you are quiet and calm your pup will take your lead and learn to relax. Gently speak to the pup. Sit quietly and try to show him that being in the car is a normal, comfortable place and not a place for rope tugging and barking. You set the tone. Train the pup to

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sit and stay, then offer a reward for being good. It will reinforce self-control. Then your puppy will begin to understand what you want and expect of him. Remember that what you do now will set the stage for lots of easy traveling together. Many veterinarians and pet owners believe in buckling up pets in a car. There are many types of devices that hold your dog in place in case of an accident. It can add to the safety of your travel, and is a good idea. After you’ve sat in the car with the engine running a few times, it’s time to drive around the block. This is a good time to get your dog used to a restraining device that will secure the pup comfortably in the seat, but will allow some movement. Never let your dog stick his head out the window. It is cute to see his little ears flapping in the wind, but his head could be hit by flying road debris (not to mention the million other things that could happen to your dog). Command your dog to sit and stay and reward him with a small treat. When you first start out, give him a reward. In the beginning keep the trips short and be firm with your control of the situation. (Did I mention that this takes two

What do you do with the dog that just cannot control himself once your engine starts and the wheels begin to roll? If you have really tried to train the dog to do as it is told but the motion and noise of traveling are simply overpowering and turn your dog into a panting and barking demonstration, there’s hope! Call your veterinarian and describe what your dog is doing. There are countless safe medications that will allow your dog to travel without all that stress, noise and confusion. It will be a safer trip for both of you, not to mention a lot more pleasurable. You should always be focused on the traffic, not on your dog. If your traveling companion is a smaller dog, he will sometimes curl up next to you on the passenger seat and catch up on some sleep. Don’t ever allow him to go near the driver’s side seat or floor where the brake and gas pedals are located. Big dogs may be best situated in the back seat. You can either choose to use a large restraining device for him, or your dog might like a gate-like barrier between the front and the back seat so you won’t get a wet kiss from your dog when you’re driving down the busy street in an unfamiliar area. Traveling crates are very handy. If your dog is more comfortable in a crate, it is easier to leave your dog in the car for short periods of time. There are a number of things that could happen to your dog if you leave him in the car for a long period of time. Heat strokes are common when people leave their dogs in a car. Always be aware of how long you are leaving your dog in the car and use caution.

Remember, your dog has to “go” just like you do. Make frequent stops to take your leashed dog out to do his thing and don’t forget to pick up after your pet. Make sure you bring along enough food and water for the trip. A few old towels or rags will come in handy if your dog happens to discover a mud puddle or finds something nasty like spilled ice cream sundaes! Emergency first aid kits are very practical for you and the dog if a sudden cut, sliver or rash intrudes upon your day. Anti-itch medication, bandages, and antibiotic ointments may save the day when you least expect something will go wrong. It is a good idea to get a copy of the dog’s medical history from your veterinarian to take with you just in case a visit to a veterinarian along the way becomes necessary. They don’t know your dog, so the paper work is crucial for them. With this information and some patience, you will find your pal will be a pleasure to have in the car with you. You know what else is a plus? Your dog won’t tell anyone about your off key sing-alongs to the radio!

About the Author: Breanne is 10 years old and in the fifth grade at Cape Fear Academy. She began writing stories at an early age. Her writing honors including winning the Amazing Kids! Nature Poetry Contest 2003 and the State Young Authors Contest in 2005. She is also a contributor to her school newspaper and to KIDZink, a local magazine by kids, for kids. She lives in Wilmington with her Mom and Dad and two dogs, Molly, 10, and Bailey, 1. They are both West Highland Terriers and her best buddies!

Travel Checklist: • Food and Water (don’t forget the bowls!) • Collar and Leash • Old Towels/Rags • Pet First Aid Kit (and any necessary medications) • Copy of Vaccination Records • Picture of Your Pet (in case he gets loose) • Carrier or Crate • List of Pet-Friendly Hotels

www.doglivingmagazine.com

Ahhh…Massage

by Suzanne Jalot

assages are wonderful. We crave them, we beg for them and sometimes, we even get them. Your four-legged friend might be craving a massage too. Massage therapy has been integrated into and widely accepted as a supplement to traditional medical care for humans. Now the trend is entering the pet world. “It increases circulation and it will flush out the toxins in your body,” says Nancy Capobianco, a Massage Therapist at Harbour Club Day Spa. She says anybody and everybody can benefit from a massage. “A massage will help you relax and get everything back to where it needs to be, “ Capobianco says. She says after a massage, you’ll sleep better at night and just feel better overall. Your pets can enjoy similar benefits from massage. “Any pet can benefit,” says Monica Self, a certified animal acupressure massage therapist. Just as in humans, she says massage helps the animal relax, promotes circulation, lowers blood pressure and promotes wellness. She adds, however, that giving a person a massage and giving an animal a massage are two very different things and pets should only be seen by a massage therapist certified in animal massage. “Massage for animals is relatively a new field,” says Self, “It is a holistic, non-invasive, healing art that helps restore energy and wellness by balancing the body and mind of the animal and releasing emotional distress.” In the human world, there are several different choices when it comes to massage. Most spas offer Swedish, deep tissue, pre-natal, hot stone and reflexology. Your massage therapist can help you choose which one is best for you. “The Swedish massage is a baseline massage,” says Capobianco. Experiences in different places may vary, but basically she says the massage table is heated and padded and you are covered with a sheet and blanket. The lighting is

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dimmed and starting with your head, the massage therapist works down to your feet. At Harbour Club Day Spa they play jazz music in the background to help you relax. There are also a variety of massage types available for your pet. Just as with humans, a certified pet massage therapist can choose the method that will work best for your pet. Self says most massages are done in the pet’s home to make him/her more comfortable. At the initial visit, Self will discuss the animal’s history and to observe the relationship between the animal and caregiver. “I deal with the whole animal and I take time to talk at length with the owner about the food they get and how they relate,” says Self, “There’s quite a bit of history and detail taking with the first appointment because it’s important.” To begin the therapy, Self will first “warm up” the animal with a gentle touch to assess areas of concern and then begin the massage. “My training includes specifics of the acupuncture meridians but instead of needles, acupressure points are touched and stroked as needed,” says Self. She says session times vary, but usually last about 45 minutes. There are many different ways massage therapy can help your pet. “Environmental factors can cause [pets] to be emotionally stressed,” says Self, “Massage takes up the slack and helps the animal heal itself.” She says pre-event and post-event massages can loosen muscles, prevent injury and promote agility in sporting dogs. In addition, massage can reduce the growing pains in large breed puppies. And we don’t like to think about this part, but massage can also help pets in their last stage of life by making them more comfortable. Both people and pets can benefit from a good massage. Although a single massage is great, the effects of massage can be cumulative. Massage can restore humans and their canine companions physically, mentally and spiritually.

People Treats The Ivy Cottage

3020-3030-3100 Market Street, Wilmington | 910-815-0907 What do you think of when you hear Bob Marley, Daffodil and Rose? Well, we’re not talking about a dead singer and two flowers. We’re talking about the resident canines at a cute little consignment shop on Market Street in Wilmington. Okay, so it’s not so little, but it is cute, and so are the dogs. The Ivy Cottage opened shop in January of 1998. Owner Sam Dunn had been running a Bed and Breakfast in town, but a friend suggested she open a consignment shop. Originally Dunn thought she would take a few consignments and rent out the rest of the building, but it didn’t end up that way. In just two weeks, the building was full. Dunn says she often thinks, “Is Wilmington ever gonna run out of stuff?” Apparently not, because today the Ivy Cottage covers three separate buildings plus a warehouse for storage. Dunn says they’re very selective about the items they place in their shop. As a matter of fact, they have a long list of items they will not accept

for consignment, from the general – baby items, kitchen junk, nothing electric – to the specific – clear glass items, futons and window treatments. That selectivity is probably what keeps people coming back. You know you’re not going to have to sift through any junk to get to the good stuff. It’s all good stuff! And there’s plenty of it. If you’re coming to shop, make sure you give yourself at least an hour to peruse the buildings. You are also welcome to bring your wellbehaved dogs shopping with you.

Although you can find everything in every building, there is something that makes each building different: Building 1: Kids Items, Half Price Items Building 2: Jewelry, Rugs Building 3: Garden Area, Clocks

www.doglivingmagazine.com

Adoptio

ptions

Rescue Organization

By Anna Platz

There is no relationship quite like that between human and dog; pets truly become members of the family. Anyone who wants to open their heart and their home to a dog should consider adopting one of the hundreds of available dogs in our area, giving it the loving home it deserves. Once you decide to adopt, you may find the choices a little overwhelming. To help you find the one that is right for you, here are a few of the options for dog adoption in our area.

Animal Shelters Adoption Fee: $45 - $70 & up (often includes spaying or neutering) How you do it: Go to the shelter and see which pooch touches your heart. Shelters are filled to bursting with wonderful dogs that would make amazing pets. Available in every shape and size, breed and combination of breeds, they just need some kind person to take them home and love them. You fill out the adoption paperwork, and if approved, you can often take home your new family member that same day. If the dog is not spayed or neutered, you may need to wait until the procedure is done before you can pick them up. Who should adopt from a shelter: Someone who wants to truly save a dog; there is nothing like springing your new buddy from a cage in a shelter and seeing the transformation as you get him or her cleaned up and settled into your happy home. There are also almost

Domino Domino is a gorgeous 2 to 3 year old male dalmatian. He is extra special in that he only has 3 legs but that doesn’t slow him down one bit. He is a social butterfly and he loves to ride in the car. He is good with other dogs and good with older kids too. He is neutered, up to date on shots, housetrained, and crate trained. Visit www.dalpals.org for more info. Leia Leia is about 1 1/2 years old and she was rescued from a family that didn’t know how to care for their dogs properly. She was frightened of both people and dogs but Leia is making progress! She now enjoys being touched, brushed and taking rides in cars. Leia is house trained and crate trained. Visit www.nobleshepherdres cue.com or contact Lori at 910-4316294 for more info.

to add to your family go home and think it over. Are you ready for the hard work and expense that comes with owning a dog? Discuss it with all members of the household and make sure they are ready for the commitment too.

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always puppies of all ages available, so a shelter is great choice if you want the joy (and hard work!) of raising a pup. What to consider: You likely won’t know too much about your dog’s personality until you get him or her home. Think of it as a blind marriage rather than a blind date! Also, you will want to take any dog adopted from a shelter to your vet as soon as possible, since all those dogs in close quarters make it easy for fleas, kennel cough, and other ailments to spread.

Pet Adoption Event Adoption Fee: $45 - $150 & up How you do it: Attend a local pet adoption event and spend some time getting to know the animals. The volunteers will likely know a lot about each dog and can describe what type of home would be best for them. Depending on the organization, you may be able to apply and take the dog home that day, or you may need to wait until after the event to be approved to adopt. Ask the volunteers for more information. Who should adopt from a pet adoption event: Someone who does not want to have to go to a shelter. We have some wonderful shelters run by caring and hardworking employees and volunteers, but it can be hard to leave all the animals behind but one. What to consider: If you stop in a local pet superstore to pick up fish food and see a cute pup you think you might take home remember that a dog is not an impulse buy. If seeing that sweet little face makes you think it might be time

Adoption Fee: $150 - $250+ up How you do it: Submit an application (often on the rescue’s website) including contact information for references who will attest to what a wonderful dog owner you would be. Someone from the rescue will often then arrange to interview you and your family in your home. It’s a chance for the rescue volunteer to see the environment the dog would be in, and an opportunity for you to ask questions. Then an adoption coordinator matches up a potential adopter with a dog that is currently in foster care. When a good match is found, the adoption takes place. You will be required to sign a contract that usually includes items such as keeping the dog on heartworm preventative, and returning the dog to the rescue should you be unable to keep the dog for any reason in the future. Read the contract carefully and ask questions about any items which may not be clear. Who should adopt from a rescue: Someone who wants a particular breed of dog can go through a breed specific rescue. A rescue organization is also a good choice for someone who wants to know a lot about their new pet before adopting. For example, a family with young children may want to be sure they adopt a dog that is on the calmer side and is gentle with kids. A foster family will be able to tell you whether the dog you are considering has the qualities that will make them fit well into your home. What to consider: With a rescue organization you probably won’t get to take your dog home right away. The application process can take a few weeks, as rescues are almost always run completely by volunteers who balance full time job or family commitments with their dedication to the rescue program. There is a rescue organization for every breed recognized by the American Kennel Club. If you are willing to travel, the dog doesn’t have to be close by. Check out www.akc.org for contact info for other breed rescue organizations.

Cotton Cotton is around 2-years old, she was spayed in April and she’s crate and house trained. Her foster parents say she loves to lounge in the sun and she also loves to play and run and go for walks. Cotton is great around children, dogs and cats. Visit www.cbr.homestead.com for more info.

Marley Marley is a real sweetheart. She’s very easy going and quiet in the house. She gets along great with cats and kids, but would prefer to be the only dog. Marley is a lap dog even though she weighs around 60 pounds! She loves to be petted and to be with you wherever you are. She’s housebroken, spayed and up-to-date on shots. Contact Adopt-An-ANGEL at 910392-0557 for more info.

Rachael Rachael had a tough break in life when her family lost their home and she ended up in a kill shelter in Kentucky. She is about 7 years old, weighs 45 pounds, spayed, heartworm negative and housebroken. Rachael loves children, cats and people, but not birds! Contact Cape Fear Rescue Rangers at cfrangers@yahoo.com for more info.

Clovis Clovis is a golden/chow mix and was rescued from a kill shelter. He is very sweet and he’s a great size for cuddling. He is very loving with people (but he doesn’t like cats!) and he likes to play and go for walks. Unfortunately he is heartworm positive and he needs to find a foster home in order to begin treatment. Call 910-791-5001 or visit www.cfgoldenrescue.com for more info.

One last thing to consider; when adopting any dog, you are committing to some hard work as they adjust to their new environment. You are not getting a perfect companion, but remember that your dog isn’t getting a perfect owner either. Hopefully the bond will form quickly and you will be buddies for years to come!

Get approved to adopt!

Every reputable shelter or rescue organization will ask that you complete an application before they allow you to adopt. Improve your chances of being approved (and make sure you’re really ready to adopt) by thinking over these items that will likely be on the application in advance. • How will the dog get exercise? Do you have a fenced in yard? How often will you walk the dog? • Do you own your home? If you rent, are you allowed to have a dog? Are there size restrictions? • Who will your dog’s vet be? • Will you keep your dog’s vaccines, heartworm treatment, and registration current at all times? • How long will the dog be left alone during the day? • Will you attend obedience training with your dog? • You may be asked to provide references. Visit www.doglivingmagazine.com for a complete list of adoption events, shelters and rescue organizations in the area.

Are you ready to open your heart to one of these homeless dogs? Mercy Mercy is a female Chow Chow, about 5 years old and she weighs about 55 pounds. Mercy had a cancer on her leg and it had to be amputated to remove all the cancer. She has been a very loving and thankful girl in her foster home. She’s adjusted well to life on three legs and does not require any special attention, but a home with few or no steps would be best for her. She also does not like cats and we think she would be happiest as an only dog. Contact her foster Mom, Paula for more information at patpaye@bellsouth.net. Sir William Sir William is a handsome 3 year old! His owner lived in a marina and would just leave William in a small boat in the marina for days at a time. People would have to break the windows on the portholes to give William food and water. Finally animal control forced him to turn him over to rescue. William loves to play and absolutely loves toys. When he goes to bed at night, he has to take a stuffed toy with him. He is great with kids and other dogs, too. Sir William is up to date on shots, neutered, housebroken and crate trained. Visit www.dalpals.org for more info. www.doglivingmagazine.com

Here’s what we’re howling about

French Ribbon Collar Hydro Bowl

Chew on this By Amanda Hearring Black

These gorgeous collars made with French ribbon are just what your pampered pooch needs. They’re backed with nylon webbing for stability and come in sizes extra extra small through extra large.

These portable bowls are perfect for summer! They snap right around your leash or belt loop for easy carrying and they’re made of tough, durable material. $5.99-7.99, dog gone crazy, 910-815-6670

$26-38, A Proper Garden, 910763-7177 or toll free at 888-7637177, www.apropergarden.com

I Bought My Dog a King-Sized Bed The night we brought Jake home from the SPCA in Wake County, I called him into my bedroom and patted the foot of the bed, hoping he would jump up there with me. He looked up, confused, and curled up into a ball and slept on the floor beside me instead. The only history we knew about Jake, who was a young adult at the time of his adoption, was that he was picked up as a stray. We assumed he lived inside a home before he was taken to the SPCA because he was already house broken. From his hesitation to jumping up on the bed, we assumed his previous owner did not allow him to get on the furniture. Five years and several new comforters later, Jake now rules the bed.

Memory Book See your favorite pictures archived in a gorgeous coffee table book. Each book is hand crafted and you pick the layout, the pictures and the text. The books are available in three sizes and several cover colors. It makes a memorable gift! $80 and up, Snyderneff Pet Photography, 910-791-8132.

Jake started out sleeping in a tiny spot at the foot of the bed. I enjoyed having him keep my feet warm at night, but eventually he worked his way up to sleeping between my husband and me. The more comfortable Jake made himself in his new house, the more space he took up in the bed. My husband, who swears the dog spent the evening pushing him closer and closer to the edge of the bed, tried to convince me to make Jake stay on the floor, but I came up with a much better solution. We bought a king-sized bed. Now Jake has more than enough room to sprawl out and sleep with his legs stretched out. Rarely does he kick my husband anymore.

Retriever Hand Vac Cleaning up after your pet has never been so fun. This hand vac is designed to pick up pet hair and more and has all the suction of an upright. It’s great for furniture and in the car. $29.99, Major Retailers and online at www.BlackandDecker.com

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Do I regret letting my dog sleep with us? Sometimes I wish I didn’t have holes and dog hair on my comforter, and it’s costly to constantly buy new bedding because the dog has pulled the stuffing out. But if it wasn’t for Jake, I wouldn’t get to transform the look of my bedroom every so often. There has been more than one occasion when I have woken up in a panic because an 85-pound dog was asleep on my legs and I couldn’t move. But that is less frightening

than to wake up to find that the dog is not on the bed, or on the floor, or on the couch, or on the guest bed, or at the front door…. After searching the entire house and turning on every light in the middle of the night, I then panic and wake up my husband because I’m worried one of us had let the dog out in the middle of the night and forgotten about him and he was left out in the cold and the rain, wondering what he had done to deserve such punishment of being abandoned in the depths of his own backyard. (Usually when I can’t find the dog, he’s curled up on the other side of my husband – a very rare occurrence). There are times when I wake up to the smell of dog breath, finding that Jake has scooted up to share my pillow with me. And occasionally I’ll roll over and find a chewed raw hide bone near my face. But there are more times when I wake up to find my furry friend with his head on my belly, staring at me with those sad puppy dog eyes. It’s those moments that make it all worthwhile. About the author: Amanda Hearring Black is the Production Director for a group of regional magazines headquartered in Cary, North Carolina. Her dog, Jake, is thought to be a 5-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix. Jake was adopted from the SPCA of Wake County.

www.doglivingmagazine.com

Tail Waggers by Elysa Cooper

New on the Market!!

Best Friends Care - Pet Peek- the window for your fence: “Because every dog should have a point of view!” The company states that they created this product to help alleviate boredom and help satisfy the curiosity of dogs confined to a fenced-in yard. This is a durable, clear, 9.5” hard plastic dome, complete with all hardware for easy, do-it-yourself installation into your wooden fence.

Outdoor Dog Products These products are sure to get those tails a waggin’!

Living on the Cape Fear Coast, we are fortunate to enjoy outdoor activities with our furry best friends just about all year long. In our area, there are so many exciting activities we can share with our dogs, including hiking, biking, boating, swimming, playing fetch on the beach (yes, we have area beaches where Fido is still welcome yearround!)…

Retail price range: $21.99-$36.99 To find a retailer near you: www.pawsaboard.com (877) 987-PAWS

Midnight Pass - Pet Sport Cruiser Bicycle Baskets: For all the little dog lovers - a fun, safe and comfortable way to bike with your dog! Features of this sporty bicycle basket (for pets up to 13lbs) include: air vents to keep your dog cool, a high visibility reflector stripe, storage pockets, removable sun and wind shade and an adjustable safety harness to keep your dog secure. Also included is a universal bracket that works with all standard handle bars. Available in bright pink, bright blue, lime green and silver. Retail price: $89.95 To find a retailer near you: www.petcruiser.com (877) 844-4438

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The Journey of Binky La Rue By Carole Raphael Davis

Just like with our human children, it is also important to remember safety, along with all the good times we share outdoors with our dogs. Here are several innovative and fun products available in the marketplace today.

A little over a year ago, a backyard breeder walked into an animal shelter in Los Angeles with the two-legged puppy, and said, “Put her down.” By happenstance, an elderly woman was looking to adopt a dog. She took the little dog in and spent several months loving her and knitting a blanket for her until the elderly woman’s landlord gave her a heart wrenching ultimatum. She either had to get rid of the dog or move out. “It broke my heart,” she said. The elderly woman called Chihuahua Rescue and Binky La Rue was once again on her meandering journey home.

One Dog One Bone - The Bone Pool: A fun, bone shaped wading pool designed especially to keep your pup cool in the summer. This 68” x 44” x 12” pool is made of durable, heavy duty plastic and is UV and chew resistant. It stays cool in the heat and is easy to fill and drain through the brass garden hose thread drain.

Retail price: $29.98 plus S&H To order: www.petpeek.info (888)-770-0991

Paws Aboard - Designer Doggy Life Jackets: Your dog can be safe and have fun swimming and boating in style with these new polka dot life jackets from Paws Aboard. Some of the outstanding features of these life jackets include reflective strips for ultimate visibility, a handle for quick and easy grabbing, a mesh underbelly for comfort and proper draining and drying and adjustable nylon straps with quick release buckles and a heavy duty Velcro fastening system for a secure fit. Available in pink and blue in sizes XXS-M. Also available in traditional neon yellow in 6 sizes for the perfect fit for any size dog.

Hopping Down the Winding Road Home

Janet Wingfield, vice president of Chihuahua Rescue became Binky’s foster mom. “Every week I brought her to the Kabbalah Center in Beverly Hills,” she said. “I prayed she would find the home she deserved and I lit my candles every day. I love that little dog!” Sharp and chipper, Janet is an unusual woman—she wears bright patterned shirts and always strides into a room clutching what looks like a goiter—actually, it’s an old, white Chihuahua named Stuart, who’s shaped like a knockwurst. He’s what you would call ugly cute, very satisfied, with one eye closed and tiny, rat-like feet.

Retail price: $200 plus S&H To order: www.onedogonebone.com (702) 940-4796

Doggles - Pet Sunscreen: Don’t forget to protect your pup while having fun in the sun! Just as in humans, UV irradiation can result in skin cancer in dogs. Dogs with light colored fur and areas not protected by fur are especially at risk. Doggles, the originators of Doggles protective eyewear for dogs, has now developed an SPF 15, water- based pet sunscreen, which is safe, effective and non-irritating. Retail price: $9.99-$10.99 To find a retailer near you: www.doggles.com (866) DOGGLES

Dancing Paws - Purely Botanical Flee Flea! Spray: A price we have to pay for all the beautiful weather we enjoy in this area is an abundance of insects! From fleas to mosquitoes, they affect us, as well as our dogs, causing irritations, hot spots and sometimes allergic reactions. Dancing Paws offers an all natural repellant and according to the company, it is specially formulated to be safe for dogs over 6 weeks old, even if they lick it. The active ingredient used is citronella oil and other ingredients include: sage extract, eucalyptus extract, lemongrass oil and neem oil. Always make sure you consult your veterinarian for advice and treatment options. Retail price range: $9.99-$10.99 for an 8oz. spray bottle. To find a retailer near you: www.dancingpaws.com (888) 644-PAWS

A little dog named Binky La Rue

has hopped onto the pages of Dog Living Magazine and right into our hearts. She’s a dog you would never find in a pet shop—not because she’s a mutt but because she has a disability. Binky was born without two front legs and where her front legs ought to be, are two little stumps, which make her look like a canine version of Venus de Milo. Though she is unable to walk like other dogs, she doesn’t seem to let it bother her. Alert and playful, she uses her back legs and her chest to worm forward. Her back legs are strong enough for her to lift herself up and hop around. If she knows there is a soft landing pad, she can, from a lying position, push off with her hind legs and leap several feet. She has the balance of a trapeze artist and can stand up to get what she wants. What she wants is what anyone would want—someone to love. Faced with a great challenge, Binky’s path in life hasn’t been simple or straight; she’s been on quite a meandering journey to find a place called home. Some people would say that Binky is a lucky dog but it is the kindness of a special group of strangers that is responsible for her life, not mere luck. Usually, a dog born with a deformity is euthanized at birth but in this case, compassion intervened.

Binky La Rue spent several months with Janet, sleeping in the blanket the elderly woman had made for her and playing with Stuart and Janet’s other dogs, all misfits who need special care. When a neighbor downstairs complained she couldn’t sleep because of the “thump, thump, thumping noise” of Binky leaping around the condo, Janet brought her up to the Chihuahua Rescue sanctuary in Tehachapi, a hundred miles inland from Los Angeles, where she could thump, thump, thump as loudly as she wanted with lots of other doggie friends. Janet knew Binky would be happy there while she waited for a forever home. In Tehachapi, Binky settled in on twenty three acres of rolling hills in the land of tiny dogs. “She was the popular blonde—a real cheerleader type. All fun,” explained Kimi Peck, founder of Chihuahua Rescue. “She never let her disability bother her and besides, dogs don’t judge others like people do.” A month ago, I organized a Puppaware party (that’s a small informal gathering that benefits a rescue organization of your choice and you invite a few homeless dogs or cats and the guests make out a small check or help find homes for the animals). As usual, my house was a furry playground, with about half a dozen ladies and twice as many dogs. It was a delicious afternoon party with squeaky toys shrieking, balls bouncing, and the always delightful sound of playful doggie growls mixed with ladies laughing. Kimi Peck had brought four dogs to the party, www.doglivingmagazine.com

DOGnews Here’s the scoop…

Thank you readers! And don’t worry, we are definitely gonna keep it coming!

Carolina Canines for Service Creates a New Tradition “Walk for Those Who Can’t” was held at the Loop at Wrightsville Beach in March and brought out pet lovers and their pooches. Organizers say over 300 walkers came out to support the event. Way to go!

“Hi, I love your magazine! It’s got great information and great presentation. Keep up the good work!” “I don’t know whether to SIT, JUMP or STAY! Your new magazine is better than the biggest, juiciest bone I’ve ever gnawed on!” “We love your magazine! It is great! So informative and cute.” “Let me be very precise about Dog Living...I love it!” “Thanks for a great magazine! I was so excited to see it! Keep it coming!” “Love the magazine. Read it cover to cover after receiving it from a beach-residing patient. Your articles/ letters are so informative and do tickle the heart and funny bone.”

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Camp Canine

Where your dog plays all day!

Please call us or go online for schedules and rates!! www.canineacademy.us 910-253-7723

May | June 2007

including Binky La Rue. When my friend Carole Sax saw Binky worming around the couch, her heart melted. And then she said the magic words: “She’s adorable! I’ll foster her!” We were all sitting around the fire and a collective “Aw!” resounded in my living room. Everyone was in tears because we all knew that Binky was one hop closer to finding her forever home. The next few weeks of Binky’s life were fast paced, flirting with my dog Jinky and Carole’s other two dogs at the pool and in the park. She got a lot of male attention. Like most males, I think they liked her posture, butt in the air with a very waggy tail. It was harmless fun; she’s spayed and none of the boys have balls. We’d throw all the seat cushions on the floor and leaping from one seat cushion to the next like a frog, Binky didn’t know that her next leap would have the sweetest landing of all.

PAW JAM 2007 It’s time for Paw Jam 2007! It’s a day of music and fun for people and their pets. But perhaps most important is the awareness the event brings to the homeless pet population and the need to spay and neuter your pet. Come join us at Battleship Park on Saturday, June 9th from 10am-5pm. 3rd Annual CFGRR Calendar Contest Cape Fear Golden Retriever Rescue is accepting entries for their 2008 calendar. Send in a photo of your Golden Retriever (no other breeds, please) along with a name and description (favorite toys, activities, etc.), and your dog may be selected to represent a month of the year. There is a $10 entry fee, and all money raised will be put toward medical expenses for rescued Goldens. For contest information, call 910793-4822 or visit www.cfgoldenrescue.com.

Jon and Sylvie Forrest first spotted Binky at the Barrington Park with her foster mom, Carole Sax. “As soon as I saw her, I knew,” said Sylvie, Binky’s new mom. Sylvie has a charming French accent to go with her twisted sense of humor. “We already had our tickets to go to Africa to adopt, like Angelina Jolie and Madonna, but we were going to adopt a dog. As soon as we met Binky, our plans were cancelled. We found our baby here in America.” Jon and Sylvie already had Sparky (a dog adopted from Chihuahua Rescue six years earlier) and their cats Monkey and Suzie Q. They instinctively knew that Binky would fit right in with her new family. Jon is a builder and is already making a contraption with wheels for Binky to learn to walk without falling forward and hurting her chest. “She leaps around like a little kangaroo. She pulls all the cat toys out of the basket and she plays with the cat,” says Jon. “We don’t have any kids, so the animals are our kids,”. “We’re perfect for a special needs dog. We love her.

Pender County Humane Society is Busy Busy The Pender County Humane Society awarded students of Brewster Middle School in Jacksonville, NC a plaque in appreciation for “pets in need,” a project aimed at improving responsible ownership and civic duty to improve sheltered animals quality of life. Between the months of Feb-March, the students gathered 6062 lbs. of food and supplies for the PCHS no-kill shelter, enough food to last the shelter 6-8 months, shelter manager Robin Bennett estimates. Bravo!

This adorable little dog finally has what she always wanted—a forever home. Though she has special needs, she has given each of us something valuable. Binky La Rue provided us with the opportunity to be better people than we were before she entered our lives. Helping her find a permanent home made us forget our problems and brought out the best in each of us. It wasn’t much; we just decided to get together and do something about her homelessness. And in the end, it’s what you do that makes you who you are. Like the yarn in the blanket the old woman knitted for her, we are all knitted together so that Binky La Rue will always land on her feet.

Pender Co. Humane Society is offering Spay/Neuter vouchers worth $40.00 off to county residents. Show proof of residency to manager Robin Bennett between the hours of 8am-12noon Monday-Friday. Residents must be sincere about getting their pets spayed or neutered, and need financial aid to do so. Three local vets are participating in the voucher program. The program is made possible by a grant from PetSmart Charities to the PCHS.

Author, actress and animal welfare advocate Carole Raphaelle Davis is the author of “The Diary of Jinky, Dog of a Hollywood Wife” available at book stores everywhere. Visit the web site at www.HollywoodJinky.com. Email her at: hollywoodjinky@gmail.com. Carole will be starring in ‘Veronica Mars’ this season in the episode Un-American Graffiti.

Do you have the scoop on something we should know about? Call us at 910-452-3775 or email editor@doglivingmagazine.com. www.doglivingmagazine.com

Most dog owners have gotten the memo that they need to be their dog’s “alpha.” Most dog owner’s have heard about pack structures, dominance, and being the boss. And most dog owners can explain all their dog’s bad behavior on the fact that their dog is trying to be dominant and that they are not the leader. Pack Theory, as this is called, is all over the media and has been used to explain dog behavior for decades. There is another theory lurking in the dog training world, known as Learning Theory. Learning Theory has also been around for decades. It has been used to train all animals from goldfish to humans to killer whales. Rather than ideas of pack hierarchy and dominance, Learning Theory uses scientifically proven methods to modify behavior. Ideas of who’s in charge are replaced with solid principles using motivation to shape behaviors. Pack Theory, though widely recognized, has developed and been applied based on incorrect information, speculations and assumptions. Despite some of the latest research that actually disproves Pack Theory, we still are inundated with the theory as if it were fact. For most of the public, Pack Theory is much sexier than the idea that a dog is simply an animal that can be trained to do anything with the proper motivation. People like the idea that they are dominant and that their dog should behave out of respect, not because he got a treat. Watching a person win a struggle to pin a dog to the ground in order to establish dominance is far more exciting than watching a person lure a dog into the down position using hot dogs. Certainly, just as with any animal, it is still necessary to understand a dog in order to best train it. Unfortunately, due to the thrill of Pack Theory, many dog owners have the wrong information concerning their dog’s behavior. This can pose a dangerous situation for people as well as an abusive one for dogs. The idea that a pet dog is trying to establish dominance or become “alpha” really doesn’t make much sense. It is far more likely that the dog simply hasn’t learned a behavior or is motivated by something else. Pack Theory is based on the structure of a wolf pack. Problem is, our dogs aren’t wolves and many of the observations are wrong anyway. As Ian Dunbar, a world expert on dog behavior says, “Studying a pack of wolves to learn how to train a dog is like studying chimpanzees to learn how to parent your child.” New research has also shown that our domesticated beloved pet dogs are not as closely linked to the wolf as we originally thought. In fact they are more closely related to modern day wild dogs such as the Dingo and New Guinea Singing Dog. Studies on these dogs have shown that pack structure is not even used as a means of survival. These “packs” are constantly changing members and have no clear “alpha.” Sadly, many pet dogs are being punished so that they will learn not to dominate and that their humans are “alpha” when the fact is, they don’t even understand this concept.

May | June 2007

Dogs on Film

Who’s the Boss? By Whitney Doremus

The puparazzi caught these cuties out and about.

Any person can teach any dog new behaviors, change existing behaviors, or eliminate unwanted behaviors without ever having to be dominant. Unlike Pack Theory, Learning Theory does not require that a person display a certain attitude or have certain strengths. Anyone - young, old, shy, or boisterous - can apply the theory and get results. Learning Theory is basically a set of proven principles that will affect the behavior of any organism. In a nutshell: if a behavior works (i.e.: is reinforced) it will increase. If a behavior doesn’t work (i.e.: isn’t rewarding) it will decrease. This means that if your dog is giving you an unwanted behavior, such as jumping up, he is doing so because it is being reinforced. If the behavior results in a consequence that is not reinforcing, the behavior will stop. Learning Theory comes with a full toolbox to help any animal learn any behavior. Remember Pavlov’s dogs? Pavlov was working in a lab using dogs and meat to study digestion in dogs and instead stumbled upon the basis of learning theory when he discovered that the dogs drooled every time they saw the scientist is their white coats coming to feed them. This observation led Pavlov to develop the basis of what we now know as conditioned reinforcers. The use of conditioned reinforcers has given trainers of all kinds of animals the tool they need to teach all kinds of behaviors. Every marine mammal performance and most animals in any circus performance have been taught using conditioned reinforcers and the other principles of Learning Theory.

Ace

Scarface

Miami

Every pet dog owner already uses Learning Theory. For example, when someone asks their dog to sit before feeding him they are applying positive reinforcement. When they put their dog in time out they are applying negative punishment. When a dog gets excited at the sight of his leash you are witnessing the power of a conditioned reinforcer. The scientific jargon may seem intimidating but a good obedience instructor will make it all easy to understand and apply. Dog owners have a choice. They can choose to communicate with their dogs using a theory with no scientific backing or they can use a theory that has been proven by science. On behalf of pet dogs everywhere, I ask, “If you were a dog which theory would you rather be used to teach you?”

For more information on Learning Theory read Don’t Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor or contact your area’s positive dog trainers. Whitney Doremus is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer through the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. She owns Dogs At Play, a doggy daycare and boarding facility and Superdogs Positive Pet Dog Training, an obedience school. She may be contacted at www.superdogsatplay.com.

Oscar

Bear

Bella

On average, how much do you think you spend on your dog in a month? Less than $50 Between $50-$100 Between $100-$200 More than $200 There’s no limit to what I’d spend

10% 43% 35% 4% 8%

“I spend more money on my Jackson than I do on myself!” “If money is tight, you can be sure our two mutts will be eating better than we are.” “Let’s see, outfits, treats, food, toys……..it’s probably darn near close to $200 a month, but I don’t really keep track. If I don’t know the exact amount, I don’t have to hear my husband complain about how much I’m spending on ‘the dog’.” “Some people would say my dog is spoiled, yes.” “Just the necessities like food and vet care probably average out to about $50 a month, but when you add in goodies, toys, doggy day care and all the other stuff she’s just got to have, we’re talking a whole lot more. Wait, actually goodies, toys and doggy day care ARE necessities in my book!”

This month’s question: Do you converse with your pet when no one is around? If so, what do you talk about? Send your answer to editor@doglivingmagazine.com and put “Doghouse Poll” in the subject line. See the results in the next issue!

Also coming in July: Pet Health Insurance • Boating with Dogs • Should Fido Go on a Diet?

May | June 2007

Available at bookstores and online retailers everywhere!

“Jinky’s Hollywood story recalls the brilliant humiliation of Fitzgerald’s Pat Hobby, the uncomfortable self awareness of Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Henry Miller’s approach to Life’s Banquet. If everyone who owns a dog or loves to laugh buys this book, the profits will spark the worst custody battle in the history of Tinseltown.” -- MARK BRAZILL, creator of That 70’s Show

“Jinky’s a star! This rescued mongrel knows what’s important in life, and his take on Hollywood is hilarious!” --GRETCHEN WYLER, Humane Society of the United States Hollywood Office and founder of the Genesis Awards

Visit our website at HollywoodJinky.com