November/December 2009 by OllieDog Media

November | December 2009 Volume 4 | Issue 6

Annual Gift Guide: Let’s Go Shopping! Senior Dogs Make Great Pets Is Your Dog a Health Hazard to Restaurant Patrons? Watching the Granddogs

It’s a good doggy day

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Table of Contents p. 14

p. 7

Features

p. 26

In Every Issue

Cucalorus p. 8 A couple of dog themes at this year’s festival

Ollie’s Corner p. 7 I got caught

On Guardians of Being p. 11 Cartoonist Patrick McDonnell talks about his new collaboration with Eckhart Tolle

Happenings p. 8 See what pet-friendly event is coming to a location near you

2009 Gift Guide p. 14 Find the perfect gift for you or your furry friend Dogsitting Our Granddogs p. 16 Tips for Doggy Grandparents Save Our Seniors p. 18 November is Adopt A Senior Pet Month Please Wait to be Seated…Unless You Have a Dog p. 20 Contrary to what you might observe, dogs are not allowed in outdoor dining areas in North Carolina A Second Chance p. 22 Fiction by Kathryn Randall Tail Docking p. 24 Is the practice cruel or necessary? Finding Utah p. 26 The true story of a man and a fateful meeting Poisonous Plants p. 29 A poinsettia myth?

On The Cover Annual Gift Guide…..p. 14 Senior Dogs.....p. 18 Doggy Dining.....p. 20 Watching the Granddogs…..p. 16 Cover Photo: K. Gwendolyn Cover Model: Chewy Chewy thinks she should grace the cover of every issue and is not sure why it’s taken so long for us to get her on the cover. Definitely a diva, Chewy knew exactly how to work the camera and when she got tired, she demanded a retreat to her dressing room.

p. 19

November | December 2009

DOGhealth p. 9 Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth DOGoutings p. 10 Jockey’s Ridge State Park Ask August p. 13 Neighborhood Etiquette Unleashed p. 19 Victoria Stilwell Tail Waggers p. 28 All I Want for Christmas DOGnews p. 30 Get the scoop Dogs On Film p. 31 Our puparazzi are always on the lookout for dogs about town Doghouse Poll p. 34 How do you feel about retractable leashes?

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November/December 2009

Volume 4, Issue 6

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Assistant Editors

Suzanne Jalot

Art Director

Dustin Keipper

Graphic Design

Mandy Brown Sara Webster

Contributing Writers

Roger Benton Tara Lynne Brown Elysa Cooper K. Gwendolyn Kim Henson Bobbi Leder Patrick McDonnell Kathryn Randall Judy Smith

Phodography Marketing & Promotion

K. Gwendolyn

Circulation Manager

John Leonard

Distribution

Wendy Jalot Ryan Young

Ollie and August

John Leonard Wendy Jalot

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 $25. Call 910-452-3775 or go to www.doglivingmagazine.com to subscribe. Change of address? Call 910-452-3775 or email circulation@doglivingmagazine.com. Advertising: For more information, call 910-452-3775 or email sales@doglivingmagazine.com. Submissions: Please email editor@doglivingmagazine.com for submission guidelines. ©2009 by OllieDog Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents of this magazine is prohibited without written permission of the publisher. This includes, but is not limited to Internet postings and photocopies of the magazine. Dog Living and its logotype are trademarks of OllieDog Media, Inc. 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.

November | December 2009

Ollie’s Corner

I got caught. It’s not like I was trying to hide it, but sleeping with the cat is a little embarrassing. In my defense, I was on the bed first and she jumped up after me. We did have a bit of an argument over who got to sleep on the pillows. We had a bit of an argument over who got to sleep on the pillows, and in the end, she won the battle and I retreated to the end of the bed. I was sleeping comfortably when I heard a voice say, “What do you think you’re doing, mister?” It was mom. I was busted. She was teasing me for hanging out with the cat, but hey, I was comfortable and at least the cat doesn’t toss and turn like mom does when I sleep in her bed. August prefers to sleep under the bed, although I don’t know why. She can’t fit under mom and dad’s bed anymore, but one day she managed to wiggle her way under there, only to find her fat butt was too big to get back out! Mom had to lift the bed up to get her out and was laughing the whole time. I told August that it’s much more comfortable on top of the bed, but oh well. This issue marks our 3rd year anniversary. I can’t believe it’s been that long! It’s been a long journey since that first issue back in November of 2006. If you missed any issues in between, we’ve got a very limited number of complete yearly sets that would make good holiday presents! You can find ordering information on page 23. Grab yourself a cup of hot cocoa, sit back, relax and enjoy this anniversary issue of Dog Living Magazine. Happy holidays to you all and we can’t wait to share more doggy moments with you in 2010! Woofs and Wags,

Ollie Assistant Editor www.doglivingmagazine.com

DOGhappenings

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

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

FEBRUARY 2010

November 7 Wake County Animal Center Mutt Strutt 10am-2pm Historic Oak View Park, Raleigh Fun for dogs and people! Join the pack at Historic Oak View Park in Raleigh and browse exhibits, vendors, demos and there will even be doggie baths! Rabies shots for $5 and microchipping for $10. Visit www.wakegov.com/pets or call 919-212-PETS for more information.

December 5 Wilmington Fur Ball 6:30pm-10:30pm Hilton Wilmington Riverside, Wilmington New location this year! This black tie, red carpet gala benefits Pender County Humane Society and Adopt An Angel. Tickets ar $75 each and include wine, beer, champagne, lavish hors d’oeuvres and a live band. Check out www.wilmingtonfurball.com.

February 21 Monty’s Home Pet Expo 11am-4pm Schwartz Center, CFCC Campus, Wilmnigton Enjoy the largest indoor pet event in the Wilmington area! Over 70 vendors will display pet-related items and the expo features a silent auction, a gourmet food vender and tons of pet care information. Free booth space is available to rescue organizations. For details, visit www.montyshome.org.

November 14 5th Anniversay and Howl-iday Open House All Day! Coastal K9 Bakery, Wilmington Celebrate Coastal K9 Bakery’s 5th Anniversary! Special treats for dogs and humans.

December 6 and 13 Photos with Santa 2pm-4:30pm Coastal K9 Bakery, Wilmington Photos with Santa at the bakery. For appointment times, call 910-794-4014.

November 27 Thanksgiving Fundraiser AniMall, Cary Towne Center, Cary Let 2 Paws Up rescue get you through Black Friday shopping with donuts and coffee.

December 7 Puttin’ On the Ritz: Top Hats & Tails 6pm-8:30pm Fair Barn, Pinehurst AAMC invites you to become part of a Pinehurst tradition! This year’s event will feature a red carpet parade of adoptable black and white animals transported by classic antique cars. Hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and soft drinks will be served accompanied by the sounds of a string quartet. A silent auction will highlight the evening. Tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the door. Seating is limited to 300.

November 29 Photos with Santa 2pm-4:30pm Coastal K9 Bakery, Wilmington Photos with Santa at the bakery. For appointment times, call 910-794-4014.

MARCH 2010 March 27 Walk for Those Who Can’t Hugh MacRae Park, Wilmington Save the date for the 3rd Annual Walk for Those Who Can’t to benefit Carolina Canines for Service. Sign up as an individual walker or start putting your team together today!

Got an upcoming pet-friendly event? Send your info to events@doglivingmagazine.com. Please include: Organization Name, Contact (name and phone), Brief Description of Event, Date/Time/Place.

cuc•a•lor•us n.,

[orig. Gk. kukaloris, the dance of the shadows.] 1. a film set apparatus placed in front of a light source to create a dappled lighting effect on a subject or background. also cookie, UK. gobo. 2. a film festival in Wilmington, North Carolina. Fans of the Cucalorus Film Festival will enjoy a couple of dog-themed films this year. Edinburgh-based filmmaker Matt Hulse will take you on his 100mile journey along the South Downs Way. The trip from Winchester to Eastbourne was planned as an homage to his grandpa Eric, who passed away in 2008. One of his traveling companions is his dog, Tippy, who is sure to delight audiences. The festival will also be screening another dog-themed film, the fourth in the Oscarnominated animated dog series by Bill Plympton, called “Horn Dog.” This year’s festival runs November 1115 and you can find schedules, ticket information and a complete list of films at www.cucalorus.org.

November | December 2009

DOGhealth How Important is Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth? by Tara Lynne Brown

It’s bedtime. Don’t forget to brush Rover’s teeth before he goes to sleep!

Keeping your dog’s smile sparkling and white won’t just score him or her more dates at the dog park, but a potentially longer life with you. Just like a human, a dog’s dental health affects the health of their entire body. The visible plaque and tartar you see in your dog’s smile is buildup of serious, damaging bacteria. To the common eye it may look harmless, just an off-white smile on the outside, but inside is where more severe compromise can occur. Poor dental care results in significant bacteria buildup around the gum line, causing it to decay and bleed. Dogs’ hearts, livers and kidneys are at a high risk of being damaged by these threatening bacteria through simple access to the bloodstream created by the deteriorated gum line. You may have thought simple cavities would be a concern? “Dogs don’t generally get cavities,” said Dr. Jennifer Suter, a general practitioner veterinarian with a heavy background in dentistry and internal medicine at Preston Animal Hospital in Morrisville, North Carolina. “Cavities do happen, but truthfully they are very rare.” Dogs are not naturally resistant to dental disease. Considering the long term cost of canine cardiac care or dialysis and the pain your dog may experience, it’s an effortless decision to invest less than ten dollars in a toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs. Spending a few minutes three to four days per week (daily is even better!) to brush your dog’s teeth will not only save you money in veterinary bills, but buy a longer and pain-free life for your companion. A more effective investment is a professional cleaning performed by your veterinarian, which can cost approximately $275 (keep in mind anesthesia is required and included in this approximation). Some pet insurance companies, like Pets Best Insurance, cover the cost of an annual dental cleaning with your pet policy. Most dog owners are lax about brushing their dog’s teeth and don’t realize how effective this

inexpensive preventative action is for their pet’s health. Statistics are getting better, but currently about 30% of dog owners routinely brush their dog’s teeth, according to Dr. Suter. She shared, “The goals with dental cleanings for dogs are one, not to have a painful mouth, and two, to keep every tooth.” If you want to start brushing your dog’s teeth right away, don’t run to your bathroom just yet. The toothpaste we use is specifically designed for humans’ dental needs. The clear warning on toothpaste containers that reads “do not swallow” should be heeded with respect to your dog as well. Dogs do not have the ability to brush, rinse and spit, so they require a canine formula that is safe to ingest. Dog toothpastes are created with ingredients like sorbitol and cellulose gum that safely break down into sugar compounds if ingested. Canine toothpaste also differs from human formulas by taste. Most revolve around a dog’s favorites flavors: beef and chicken. All dog owners should acquaint their dogs with routine brushing, but owners of toy breeds should take their pet’s dental health even more seriously. Dr. Suter advises that owners of Maltese, Dachsunds, Poodles and Yorkies are at an especially higher risk for dental complications. “A lot of hair around the muzzle means chronically having saliva sitting in the hair, food particles stuck in the hair and resting in the teeth,” Dr. Suter said. Your dog is a member of your family. You may dress up your dog in fashionable clothes and bring him or her with you to lunch at an outdoor café. When you take time to brush your own teeth, think about Rover’s too. We all want our loved ones to live long and healthy. Brushing and professional prophylactic cleanings by your veterinarian will keep your dog healthy and extend your pet’s life, ensuring more hot dates at the dog park! Tara Lynne Brown is a freelance writer in the Triangle-area of North Carolina and proud owner of an Australian Shepherd-mix who loves having his teeth brushed every evening. Visit her website at www.taralynnebrown.com. www.doglivingmagazine.com

DOGoutings Scenery: Difficulty: Easy Length: N/A

Jockey’s Ridge State Park 252-441-7132 www.jockeysridgestatepark.com

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is located in Dare County on the Outer Banks. The entrance to the park is in Nags Head at mile post 12 on the Highway 158 Bypass (South Croatan Highway).

The weather may be chilly but the scenery doesn’t have a season on the Outer Banks. Jockey’s Ridge State Park is the tallest active sand dune system in the Eastern United States, and the park is much more than just sand dunes. There are a couple of hiking trails including a one-and-a-half-mile walk that takes you over the dunes and to the soundside, a one-mile loop along the water and a short boardwalk with interpretive displays. It’s interesting to note that the dunes are always shifting, but they never blow away because the Northeast and Southwest winds blow the sand back and forth. During your trip, make sure to be on the lookout for fulgurites, glass tubes formed when lightning hits the sand. Just note that removing the fulgurites is illegal. During the cooler months (November-February), the park is open from 8am until 6pm.

DUNES – Photo by Matt Windsor, courtesy of Jockey’s Ridge State Park SUNSET – Photo by Neil Ward, courtesy of Jockey’s Ridge State Park

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

November | December 2009

Difficulty Ratings: Easy – Anybody can do this! Moderate – You might be sweating when you finish Hard – This could make some of you wish you were in better shape Very Hard! – Only dogs and people that exercise often should attempt

On Guardians of Being

Patrick McDonnell

“Everything natural, every flower or tree, and every animal have important lessons to teach us….” — Eckhart Tolle

Guardians of Being celebrates the reason we love our companion animals. It illuminates for us their divine purpose. While we are lost in our thoughts and busyness of everyday life, they have become our guardians of being. They can bring us into the present moment and reconnect us to the one source of all life. Guardians of Being is a collaboration of Eckhart’s teachings and my cartoon illustrations. As does all of Eckhart Tolle’s work, Guardians of Being teaches us about finding inner peace by living in the now, the transformation of our consciousness, and the arising of a more enlightened humanity. The primary signposts in this new book are all of nature and, in particular, our beloved dogs and cats. Eckhart’s words in Guardians of Being are succinct and to the point, similar to his text in Stillness Speaks. As Eckhart Tolle said in his introduction to that work, the form the book takes is like “the oldest form of spiritual teachings: the sutras of ancient India. Sutras are powerful pointers to the truth in the form of aphorisms, or short sayings, with little conceptual elaboration…. The advantage of the sutra form lies in its brevity. It does not engage the thinking mind more than is necessary. What it doesn’t say - but only points to - is more important than what it says.” On a different level, I think the same can be said of the brief threepanel comic strip. At its best, its humor and truth go beyond the obvious. I wanted to be a cartoonist as far back as I can remember. I’ve always loved the art’s simplicity, immediacy, intimacy and absurdity. From the start, I was enchanted by how a few simple pen-and-ink lines can come to life on the page, which is, for me, the magic of cartooning. Many great comic strips (such as Peanuts and Krazy Kat)

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spoke to me directly and I always wanted to give back some of the joy and comfort I found there. MUTTS, my comic strip about a dog, Earl, and his unlikely friend, a cat named Mooch, started in 1994. MUTTS focuses on experiencing the natural world (gentle rain, quiet flurries, full moons…) and that special bond that forms between companion animals and their guardians. My own Jack Russell Terrier, Earl, was my inspiration. Earl was my teacher; he constantly celebrated life. I tried my best to convey his joie de vivre and good-hearted spirit in my strip. Animals are one with life and can be our link back to nature. In MUTTS I try to keep the animals animal-like. In trying to see the world through their eyes, I have become more aware of and empathic to their situation. MUTTS has led me to work closely with several animal welfare groups, and to join with The Humane Society of the United States where I serve on its board of directors. We face many issues of animal cruelty that humans perpetrate on animals, such as factory farming, dog fighting, and puppy mills. The HSUS is making large strides on many fronts, but sometimes it feels to me like we are attacking the Hydra; every time a problem is resolved, another rears its ugly head. But at its core there is just one problem, unconsciousness. We no longer feel connected to nature, to the life force. In Guardians of Being, Eckhart shows us the reconnect: “When you are present you can sense the spirit, the one consciousness, in every creature and love it as yourself.” Making art can be a form of meditation. I start my day in the early morning by reading a passage or two from a spiritual book to keep my head and heart open. In 1999, while traveling in Los Angeles and visiting one of my favorite book stores (The Bodhi Tree), I saw The Power of Now on their new arrival shelf. I was compelled to bring that book home; it moved me with its directness, simplicity, and place of deep truth. As it has done for millions, The Power of Now changed my life. Eckhart’s teachings inspires MUTTS, and many strips have a direct connection.

November | December 2009

I thought combining my art with Eckhart’s teaching on how animals and nature can bring us into the present moment could be a good entry point for some people. Seeing a photo of Eckhart with his new dog, Maya gave me the impetus to pursue this project. My wife, Karen O’Connell, and I compiled his passages and quotes that focused on animals and nature. We paired these with MUTTS art that spoke to the teachings in their own way. We created a proposal for the book and Eckhart graciously agreed to collaborate. He edited, reworked and wrote new material for what was to become Guardians of Being. He created a passionate, humorous, enlightening meditation on the power and grace that animals can bring into our lives. In Guardians of Being, Eckhart has translated what our companion animals have been telling us for ages. “Life is good.” “Live in the Now.” “Enjoy.”

Patrick McDonnell is the award-winning creator of the MUTTS comic strip, which appears in over 700 newspapers in 20 countries and has an estimated daily readership of 50 million, as well as the author and illustrator of the picture books The Gift of Nothing, Hug Time, and the upcoming October release, Wag! (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers). He lives in New Jersey. His website is www.muttscomics.com. Eckhart Tolle is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Power of Now (3 million copies sold) and A New Earth, the fastestselling Oprah Book Club selection ever (5 million copies sold). He speaks and teaches extensively throughout the world. He lives in Vancouver, Canada and his website is www.eckharttolle.com. Copyright ©2009 by Patrick McDonnell. Reprinted with permission of New World Library, Novato, CA. www.newworldlibrary.com or 800/972-6657 ext. 52.

AskAugust August loves mail from doggies and humans! If you have a question you’d like to ask, just email her at August@doglivingmagazine.com.

Dear August, Every night my neighbors take their two Yorkies for a walk through the neighborhood. It’s great that they’re exercising their dogs, but upon their return, both dogs immediately relieve themselves in my yard. And by “relieve” I don’t just mean the yellow stuff. I think this is gross and extremely rude, especially since they don’t pick it up. I was thinking of collecting the droppings for a week or so and then delivering the collection to their front porch. Do you think they’ll get the message?

Dear No more Yorkiepoo,

Dear August,

Get the message? Maybe. But that’s a little passive-aggressive, don’t you think? It is rude of your neighbors to let their dogs go in your yard and not pick up the mess. We can’t always control where our dogs go, but we can always pick up after them. Proper etiquette deems when walking the neighborhood with your dog, you should make every effort to keep him off your neighbor’s lawn. It sounds like these little Yorkies have formed a very bad habit, no thanks to their owner.

I am an only dog and have been ever since my mommy brought me home from the pound. I like being an only dog. But every few months, my mommy invites a dog to invade our house temporarily. It’s fun to have a playmate for awhile, but I sure don’t like sharing the attention. How can I keep these home invaders away? Mom’s one and only (sometimes), New Bern, NC Dear Mom’s one and only,

I would recommend a direct approach. Tell them politely, but firmly that you would prefer they have the dogs use their own yard to relieve themselves. If you’re uncomfortable approaching them in person, it’s fine to write a letter, but make sure you identify yourself. Anonymous letters are annoying. And if they continue to disrespect your yard, yeah, go ahead and return the poop to the rightful owners.

No more Yorkiepoo Cary, NC 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.

Sounds like you’re talking about a foster dog. I know, they can be annoying, but your mom is just trying to help another dog the same way she helped you. See, there are a lot of dogs out there who don’t have a good mommy like you and don’t have a warm, cozy bed to sleep in. Foster parents (like your mom) help spring more dogs from a sad fate at the pound and help them find good, loving homes (like yours). So remember where you came from and just accept these temporary houseguests. They’ll be gone soon enough and you’ll feel good for helping to save another dog.

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2009 Gift Guide Get’em Tagged and Collared

Dog Tag Art Unique pet ID tags crowdsourced from artists! The site has tons of styles to choose from or you can upload your own art. (August loves her Surfer Dog Tag) $9-$15, www.dogtagart.com

2 Upcountry Holiday Collars

Available in sizes teacup to XXL, these holiday collars will fit any dog on your list. $13.99-$22.99, Cool Dogs & Crazy Cats, 910-457-0115

Dress Them Up

3 Petey Designs Dog Ties

Every dog needs a tie for formal occasions, right? New holiday designs are available as well as the classics. $19.99 and up, A list of retailers is available at www.peteydesigns.com

4 Shabby Dog Tee’s

With phrases like, “Been There, Sniffed That” and “OMG BOL!” (bark out loud, yeah it took us a second too) passers-by are sure to get a chuckle while you’re walking your dog. $26, www.theshabbydog.com

Dress Yourself Up 5 Island Cowgirl Jewelry

Handcrafted, sterling silver bracelets any dog lover would love. $98-$105, Cool Dogs and Crazy Cats, 910-457-0115

6 Home is where my dog is

Ain’t it the truth? These tees from Roll Over Rover come in long and short-sleeved versions. $29-$34, Cool Dogs and Crazy Cats, 910-457-0115

Good Reads 6

The Ultimate Guide to Doggy Fun in North Carolina From the editor of Dog Living Magazine, this guide is a handy reference tool for dog-friendly lodging, trails, activities and more across the great state of North Carolina. $5.95, Call 910-452-3775 or visit www.doglivingmagazine.com for a list of retailers

8 Bad to the Bone: Memoir of a Rebel Doggie Blogger

A hilarious book about a dog and his wacky family. This book by a dog is a fun read and will make you laugh out loud. $14.95, Available in major bookstores and at www.amazon.com

9 Treat Your Man Like a Dog…And Live Happily Ever After

Maia Madden gives frank relationship advice to dog lovers who often treat their dogs better than their men. $13.95, Available in major bookstores and at www.amazon.com

November | December 2009

Keep It Clean

10 Earthbath

Deoderizing spritz, shampoos and grooming wipes in some of the loveliest scents you’ve ever smelled! $varies, www.earthbath.com

Spotless Paw A convenient solution to a messy problem. This glove makes wiping off dirty paws a cinch. $19.95, www.spotlesspaw.com

Make Them Laugh 12

Area Pet Bowl “Area Pets” will enjoy sipping water or chowing down from this bowl. Another great one from The Onion. $20.99, www.theonion.com

11 12

13 iFeast Pet Feeder and MP3 Docking Station Box

Leave it to those crazy folks at The Onion for this one! No, it’s not a real product, but the box will make them think it is. $7.99, www.theonion.com

Make Them Say “Yum” 14 DogNip

Who says dogs don’t like fish? These “catch of the day” treats will satisfy the seafood lover in any dog. $varies, www.freerangedogchews.com Zeetlegoo’s Pet & People Store, 910-457-5663

15 Gourmutt’s Bakery & Boutique

You can’t go wrong with anything you find at Gourmutt’s! Home-baked goodies make great stocking stuffers or gifts for your fellow dog owners. $varies, www.gourmuttsbakery.com

16 Coastal K9 Bakery

Got a dog with digestion problems or food allergies? No problem. These all natural, organic treats not only taste good, they’re good for your dog. $varies, www.coastalk9bakery.com (also available at Whole Foods Stores)

Share Your Holiday Spirit 17

Happy H-o-w-l-idays Card Share pictures of your whole doggone family as you wish loved ones a happy holiday. $60 and up, www.invitationconsultants.com

Think Outside of the Leash 18 Gift Certificates

Dog training, grooming, carpet cleaning, photography/portraits, maid service, daycare, fencing, landscaping, pet sitting….The list goes on and on! $any amount!, Visit www.doglivingmagazine.com for a list of businesses

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Get Out of the Doghouse: by Kim Henson

Dogsitting Our Granddogs

I wasn’t sure which one pulled the pizza box off the kitchen counter,

Tanner or Savannah, but I was certain they both had full stomachs. I did figure out that Tanner chewed the red plastic cup from the kitchen sink because he threw it up later. By the time I walked by the bathroom and heard Savannah lapping water, I knew it was time to close the commode lids and get a plan. It had been a long time since my husband and I had parented, especially young, energetic dogs, and we were out of practice. We were keeping our three-year-old granddogs, both mixed labs, for the weekend and were totally unprepared. While Tanner stood by my husband’s chair and “pounded it” (put his large paw on my husband’s arm again and again), Savannah paced back and forth by my chair, whining like she was trying to tell me something. What we didn’t know was both dogs could tell time and it was time to eat. Tanner just wanted the food but Savannah had a few obvious things, and some not so obvious, to share. Grandparents and caregivers alike can follow these simple instructions and make their guest’s stay, and their own lives, more manageable and enjoyable. 1. Have everything you need: food, food dish, water bowl, bed, leash, blanket and toys. 2. Buy chew toys, they are a good alternative to furniture and shoes.

November | December 2009

3. Have a safe place to contain dogs whether it is a dog-proof room, fenced yard, crate or a dog playpen/exercise pen. Savannah prefers to go with us everywhere we go. 4. Dog-proof cabinets and closets. You may be surprised what dogs can get into. 5. Know each dog’s routines, habits, and commands. When do they eat? Drink? Go outside? Do they have places they like to use the bathroom? Are table scraps okay or only dog food? What words do they know? For example, if up on the furniture, do they respond to “get down,” “down,” or “no.” And do they “shake,” “paw,” or “pound it” for their food? 6. Know their idiosyncrasies. You may sleep better if you get this information. Savannah gets hot at night so she wants to be near an AC vent or have a bare floor to lie on. Tanner sucks on a stuffed monkey to fall asleep. He gets cold at night so he has a Coleman brand doggy sleeping bag that keeps him from trying to get on the bed and under the covers. 7. Check out doggy day care options if keeping the dog around all day is too much responsibility or if grandparents work and don’t want to leave them unattended. 8. For dog fun, there are dog parks in most areas where dogs can run free inside a fenced area and meet friends. Just make sure he/she has socialized with other dogs before the visit. 9. Know pet hazards. (see sidebar with pet hazards) The next time around, when we stepped up to grandparent, we followed Savannah’s suggestions and we were all happier for it.

Pet hazards

• Antifreeze that contains ethylene glycol • Cocoa mulch, also cedar and other soft wood shavings, including pine • Chemicals used on lawns and gardens, insect control products, and de-icing salts used to melt snow and ice • Poisonous household plants include azalea, dieffenbachia (dumb cane), lilies, mistletoe, and philodendron • Chocolate is poisonous to dogs • Other human foods/drinks to keep away from pets include onions, onion powder, alcoholic beverages, yeast dough, coffee grounds and beans, salt, macadamia nuts, and tomato • Human medications, ointments and creams • Cigarettes, cigarette butts, nicotine gum and patches • Toys with removable parts, leftovers like chicken bones, and string, yarn, rubber bands and dental floss can be choking hazards

For more information on dog care and concerns, visit The Humane Society’s website, www.hsus.org The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center operates a hotline 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 888-426-4435 for a fee of $60 per case. Kim Henson is a freelance writer who lives with her husband, John, in sunny Myrtle Beach, SC. When she’s not at her typewriter, she enjoys fixin’ up old houses, walking on the beach, and playing with her granddogs. Check out her website at www.skimhenson.com.

Tanner and Savannah sleeping peacefully at Grandma’s

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Save Our Seniors by Judy Smith

“Sammy, oh, Sammy, what have you done?”

cried my friend, Karen, whose home we were visiting for Thanksgiving several years ago. Being a young dog, Sammy, the family’s Cocker Spaniel, had not gotten enough exercise that holiday so while his owner slept, he was up to no good. During the night, he had discovered a yummy, greasy turkey carcass left in the trash can and had devoured most of the crispy skin, luscious tidbits, and even some of the bones. Sammy did not know that this tasty meal would wreak havoc with his digestive system – and with his owner, who had to clean up the greasy mess strewn all over her kitchen floor. If you are considering adopting a dog, it might be wise to stop and consider your options. Puppies like Sammy require a lot of work and often senior dogs can be a better option for many people.

Numerous organizations have foster programs for animals who are awaiting adoption where animals are taken into a temporary home situation, rather than having to live in a shelter or kennel. Unfortunately for some seniors, a foster home is not an option. Two nine-and-a-half-year-old Chihuahuas, orphaned after their owner died, have endured shelter life at the New Hanover County Humane Society since June. They’re waiting for a family who will agree to take both small dogs, because they’ve lived together their entire lives. Foster care for them has not been an option. Susan Jackson, a Humane Society representative, says her organization only uses foster homes for dogs awaiting rabies shots. So, these two little seniors live in a kennel until a permanent home can be found. Foster programs can be lifesavers for senior dogs. Pat Lambert manages a small, but successful, foster program in Whiteville, North Carolina. Lambert primarily rescues dogs from Columbus County Animal Control. Lambert says people work together to find foster homes for selected dogs waiting for adoption. She adds that if it weren’t for people posting photos and fostering animals, many of the dogs would be euthanized. Most rescue and shelter volunteers agree that foster homes are more difficult to find for older dogs. So are you really ready for all the time and patience required of a puppy? If not, consider an older dog. Older dogs are already house-trained . They love to sleep and take walks, understand the word “no,” and you don’t have to guess how big they’re going to get because they’re already there. Senior dogs are just happy to finally settle into a soft spot in their new bed and also in your heart. If you are unable to adopt, consider fostering a senior dog through a humane society or rescue group in your area. Your choice to provide foster care, or adoption, may just save a senior dog’s life and will most certainly enhance your own.

November | December 2009

November is Adopt A Senior Pet Month Why Adopt A Senior?

*Courtesy of the Grey Muzzle Organization There’s a senior dog with the right temperament and exercise requirements, waiting just for you. Exercise requirements for senior dogs can range from “lively” to “sedate.” You’re less likely to have to deal with bad habits (like jumping up on the counter to steal food or chewing up your books). What you see is what you get. They are through the “formative years” and won’t grow into a dog that you hadn’t expected. Senior dogs know when they’ve got it good. They’ve been through enough in life to appreciate a safe home and soft bed. They tend to be less demanding of your time than a younger dog. Like to sleep in occasionally? They’ll be there! A senior dog will bond with you and become your best friend. Older dogs are just as capable of devotion as younger dogs—in fact, many people find that older dogs are more interested in being with their people and less interested in playing with other dogs.

Resources for Adopting Senior Dogs Grey Muzzle Foundation: www.greymuzzle.org Senior Dogs Project: www.srdogs.com Sanctuary for Senior Dogs: www.sanctuaryforseniordogs.org OldDog Haven: www.olddoghaven.org

“It does nothing to increase the bond between dog and owner,” says Stilwell. “And if used on an aggressive dog, can make the aggression worse so it’s actually very dangerous.” Stilwell believes being a leader is having the ability to influence behavior in others, without having to use force. “That’s what I teach people to do with their animals,” she says. “I want my dog to follow me because it wants to, not because it fears what’s going to happen to it if it doesn’t.” Increasing the bond between you and your dog is very important according to Stilwell. Unlike humans, dogs don’t have the same social pressures. “In dog world, you can pee and poop where you like,” she says. “In dog world, if you want to bite somebody to get them off of you, you can. Dog behavior is behavior but it just becomes a problem behavior when [a dog] has to fit into our society.” Many dog owners underestimate the amount of time and patience it takes to properly train a dog and are often looking for a quick fix to behavior problems. That “quick fix” is often in the form of dominancebased training, which Stilwell believes only makes things worse. With dominance-based training, if a dog is exhibiting nervous aggression, you simply put the dog into a submissive position. “So the dog misbehaves, you put the dog on it’s side and you hold it down until it ‘calms down’” Stilwell explains. “And people think well that’s a great way to discipline my dog because the behavior stops.” But Stilwell says the dog doesn’t actually calm down. “What happens is the dog shuts down, the dog numbs down. It’s a survival instinct,” she says and you are actually making an insecure dog even more insecure. “You’re thinking you’re disciplining your dog but you are actually making the nervous aggression problem even worse.”

Victoria Stilwell

Unleashed

Now one of the world’s most recognized and respected dog trainers, Victoria Stilwell’s passion for dogs began at an early age. Surprisingly, she wasn’t allowed to have pets as a child, but her love of animals began with weekends with her grandmother, who was a beagle breeder. Born and raised in Wimbledon, England, Stilwell now lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband, daughter and Chocolate Lab, Sadie. She’s got two best-selling books under her belt and a brand new season of the Animal Planet television show, “It’s Me or the Dog” on the way. Unlike some “famous” dog trainers, Stilwell has actually been formally educated in dog behavior and training and is certified by the Animal Behavior and Training Associates. Stilwell’s professional venture into the animal world began about twenty years ago, when she was an actor. “To supplement my income, I decided to walk some dogs,” says Stilwell. “I started off with one and by the end of the month I had twenty.” She says from then on she began to meet trainers and behaviorists in the dog world and became fascinated with the way dogs learned. Stilwell practices positive reinforcement training, which is very different from the traditional/dominant method of training. “My principles are completely back up by the American Veterinary Association,” Stilwell says. “It’s based on the science of learning, really, which has been researched for many, many years.” Stilwell laments that for so long dogs have been trained in a very dominant way. She is completely against getting dogs to do things through fear and through pain. She also says that the traditional style of training has been proven to damage a dog psychologically.

She likens this training to putting a bandage on a wound, but the infection is still there. “I think It shows a great weakness in the people that do it. It shows a massive lack of understanding.” Obedience commands, according to Stilwell, can be learned fairly quickly, but when it comes to changing emotional behavior in a dog, it takes a long time. “This is where I think we need to respect the dog’s brain a little more,” she explains. “We now know through science that the emotional part of the dog’s brain is wired in exactly the same way as a human.” And so, she says, a human who has anxiety problems is going to require more than a few trips to the psychiatrist or counselor before resolving his or her problem. And with a dog that’s suffering from anxiety, or any other behavior that’s emotional, it’s exactly the same. “Quick fixes address the symptoms, positive reinforcement changes the way your dog feels,” says Stilwell. She says it makes her angry to see people yanking their dogs on choke collars and shouting at their dogs to get them to behave. “I mean, it’s just so wrong and so weak.” On the other hand, Stilwell loves it when she can help a dog and his or her owner. “I get great joy in seeing an animal blossom and also an owner,” she says. Stilwell is very passionate about many different animal causes. She’s a big anti-puppy mill advocate and strongly disagrees with breed-specific legislation. In January, the new season of “It’s Me or the Dog” will air on Animal Planet and Stilwell is also working on a third book. And as if that weren’t enough to keep her busy, she’s also in the process of starting her own foundation to support smaller rescue groups. So what would she change? “I wouldn’t have it any other way,” says Stilwell. “Working with dogs is my life.”

Find out more about Victoria Stilwell at www.victoriastilwell.com. www.doglivingmagazine.com

for that matter,” concedes Michael. “We can’t prohibit children from restaurants.” Michael argues that animals don’t observe the same personal hygiene habits, such as hand washing, and that’s the difference. Yeah, I’d love to put a camera on the bathroom sink in restaurants to test that theory.

Watch out for that dog hair. It’s a killer!

e Jalot

n by Suzan

Is your dog dirty?

State health officials say he is. And that’s exactly why you aren’t allowed to dine al fresco with Fido in North Carolina. Illegal or not, some restaurants still allow your dog to dine with you in their outdoor seating areas. As a dog owner, anyplace that welcomes my dog is a fivestar establishment in my book. But a crackdown could be coming, in the form of revised wording of the current rule, although health officials deny increased enforcement of this rule. A popular Wilmington restaurant knows this all too well. Earlier this year, a health inspector barged into Flaming Amy’s, a restaurant well known for being dog-friendly, and demanded they stop allowing dogs on the patio. The restaurant even put up a sign for a few days stating dogs were no longer welcome. It’s important to note that there weren’t actually any dogs there at the time the inspector stopped by. Larry Michael, head of the Food Protection Branch with the Division of Environmental Health, says a rule against dogs in outdoor dining areas has been in place for at least thirty years and they are not cracking down or increasing enforcement. Specifically, he’s referring to this little number: 15A NCAC 18A .2633 PREMISES: MISCELLANEOUS: VERMIN CONTROL (g) Except as specified below, live animals shall not be allowed in a food preparation or storage area. According to some, that wording is a little vague. Technically, an outdoor

November | December 2009

dining area is neither a food preparation area nor a storage area. Wake County Attorney Scott Warren agrees. Warren issued a statement in August saying that the aforementioned rule does not in itself ban dogs from outdoor dining areas. Warren said in a press release, “As written, it’s my opinion that the primary intent is to keep animals out of kitchen areas where food is prepared, and out of pantry areas where food is stored.” Michael, obviously, disagrees. He says the rule is meant to keep dogs from anywhere on the restaurant premises. But it appears what is meant and what is written are two completely different things. Because the wording is confusing, Michael says officials are working on re-writing the rules to make it clear, without question, that dogs are banned from the entire property of any restaurant. “If an inspector conducts an inspection and observes animals, that restaurant can get up to a two-point violation, maximum,” says Michael. “It’s not a new regulation and not a new interpretation.” Michael points out that health inspectors are trained to look for more serious violations. “The things we focus on in our program deal with risk factors that may lead to foodborne illness,” he says. “Having animals such as dogs in outdoor areas is not considered an imminent hazard.” Dogs are not considered an imminent hazard, but they do carry disease. Don’t we all carry disease? Young children are especially known for spreading germs. “Diseases can be transmitted by children or anyone

One of the more outrageous claims is that your dog’s hair poses a health risk. According to guidelines from the Food and Drug Administration, because dogs lick themselves, any pathogen carried in the intestine can be transmitted through the dog’s hair. And because dog’s shed their hair continuously, this contaminated hair is a hazard. If this is true, then wouldn’t it hold true that dog owners experience more disease than non-dog-owners? I think I can speak for the majority of dog owners that dog hair is pretty much a way of life for us. We can control it, but we can’t eliminate it completely. So logic would dictate that if dog hair is such a disease spreader, we’re going to get sick more often. But Michael disagrees with that assumption. “I wouldn’t say that. I guess from a science perspective, I can’t really answer the question yes or no,” says Michael. “I’d have to look at whether research has been done.” Aha! Yes, research. That’s what we’re looking for too. How about research regarding restaurant patrons getting sick because of dining with dogs in the area? There must be tons of research and plenty of examples on this to explain why it’s so dangerous for the public to be exposed to dogs on restaurant patios and sidewalks. “I do know of a couple instances,” offers Michael. Those “couple of instances” are an outbreak of Campylobacter linked to an event catered by a restaurant in Virginia in 2002. Apparently those who had contact with a dog at the event were infected. The other instance happened in 1996, where an elderly man was admitted to the hospital and died. This time it was suspected that a puppy he had petted was the most likely cause. Okay. So a catered event in 2002 and an old guy who petted a puppy back in 1996. With that hard evidence, how can anyone argue that health officials don’t have our best interests at heart

by banning dogs from restaurant premises? Even Michael admits, “There’s a lack of studies on the subject.” The word “Campylobacter” was cited several times during our interview with Michael as one of the main health risks from dogs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Campylobacter is one of the most common bacterial causes of diarrheal illnesses in the United States and is the second most common foodborne illness. Here’s what else the CDC says about Campylobacter on it’s website: Most cases of campylobacteriosis are associated with eating raw or undercooked poultry meat or from cross-contamination of other foods by these items...Animals can also be infected, and some people have acquired their infection from contact with the stool of an ill dog or cat.” To prevent spread of campylobacteriosis, the CDC recommends many things, but not one of those things involves keeping dogs from restaurant patios. The United States Department of Agriculture Food and Safety Inspection Service website doesn’t mention anything about dogs being a great risk factor in the spread of Campylobacter either. But the CDC does offer this advice on it’s website, “Sometimes, yes, animals can spread Campylobacter to humans. Most people get campylobacteriosis from contaminated food. However, animals can have Campylobacter in their feces (stool). If people touch contaminated feces, they can get sick.” According to www.FetchDog.com, less than six percent of all cases of campylobacteriosis have been confirmed to originate from a dog. And, veterinarians say dogs living in animal shelters are much more likely to harbor the organism than privately owned dogs.

So Michael thinks this Campylobacter is a big enough threat to warrant banning dogs from restaurants. I don’t know about you, but I’m not convinced.

Service animals don’t spread disease. It’s federal law that service animals are allowed in restaurants. But if all dogs carry the risk of disease, aren’t service dogs going to pose a health risk too? According to Michael, because service dogs are better trained, there’s less of a health risk. “It’s my understanding that service animals have a certain amount of training,” he contends. “And they are free of parasites.” So let’s recap: Service dogs are better trained than most household pets, therefore they are not as dirty and they are also free of parasites, therefore, they are not a health risk to diners. Is Michael insinuating that for all of us who have regular old dogs, they are more likely to have parasites? At least Michael has a solution for those of us who still want to dine legally with our pooch. “This [rule] doesn’t pertain to any areas outside the restaurant,” he says. “You can get a meal and take it out to another area. They can get [the meal] to go and eat at a park. There are some alternatives there.” Well isn’t that nice?

Must be some diiirrrty cities out there. There are plenty of examples of cities across the United States that have rules in place specifically allowing dogs in outdoor dining areas. Places such as Austin, Texas, Alexandria, Virginia and pretty much the whole state of California see no problem in allowing you to dine with your dog.

And Europeans readily accept pets at restaurants, sometimes even indoors. Are these places putting their citizens at risk? “That’s difficult to answer because I don’t know what other provisions they have put in place,” answers Michael. North Carolina officials are still collecting information and the revised rules are still in draft form so it’s likely the completed revisions wouldn’t take effect until 2011. “We want to come up with rules that protect public health and work for most people,” says Michael.

Is there any hope for dog owners? “I have dogs too,” says Michael. “We travel with our dogs and [health rules do] make it more difficult.” But he says there’s little chance a law will be enacted to allow dogs in outdoor seating areas, even though he’s been getting calls and emails from concerned dog owners. “I understand the bond between dogs and their owners,” says Michael. “We understand that.” However, he states, “At this point and time, a change in the rule would be a lowering of sanitation.” Michael says the goal is to protect the public’s health. “If we can do that, than I’m happy.” He wants to emphasize that there is not a conspiracy to shut down restaurants who allow dogs on their patio. “Do North Carolina rules allow dogs in outdoor dining? No, the rules do not allow that. If it’s observed during an inspection,” he says. “We have to actually observe it. It’s a rule that we’ve really had very little enforcement on in the past.” So does that mean restaurant owners should continue to allow dogs? “It’s considered a violation. It’s the same kind of violation as not wearing a hair restraint. We’re not going to close down the restaurant because of that.”

ONLINE EXTRA:

Check out more about this subject online at www.doglivingmagazine.com

What do you think?

Does banning dogs from outdoor dining areas make logical sense? Are citizens really at risk? Have North Carolina health officials given any good arguments to support their contention that dogs are a health risk in restaurants? Talk to us: editor@doglivingmagazine.com

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A Second Chance by Kathryn Randall

Wearily, he wonders what will happen next. Scruffy and dirty, the dog crouches in the back of the crate, quivering. Fearful eyes dart back and forth as if to ward off an unseen enemy. The day that began as a nightmare seems to worsen by the minute. With a whimper, he shrinks back, looking for safety. Reflecting on the last few weeks, he wishes he hadn't given in to the hunger that had landed him here. Turned out that the “nice people” weren't so nice after all. Eventually, they handed him off to some other folks who kept him tied in a garage. At least he had been fed and warm-- yet today, they shoved him in a cage. With a bump and sway, the cage lifts from the ground. Off balance, the captive scrambles and panic sets in. Anxious voices escalate, doors slam, and engines roar to life as his sensitive ears scream for relief. Soon there's motion, and his stomach lurches as the cage slides back and forth across the seat. The scene would be almost comical except for the sinking sensation in the pit of his stomach: fear of the unknown. After awhile, the vehicle stops and there is momentary quiet. Abruptly, the cage is hauled into the blinding sunlight, causing its occupant to blink. A few steps later, he is lowered to the ground, the door swings open, and a man peers in.

“Hi Buddy,” says the man, “My name is Joe. Doesn't it feel good to get out of there?” Cautiously, the dog draws near and greets his benefactor with a tentative lick on the hand. Momentarily tensing when Joe scoops him up, he soon begins to calm under tender petting. “Don't worry, Buddy,” Joe whispers in his ear, “We're going to be friends. I know you're scared right now--so was I when I first got here--but soon enough you'll realize this place isn't so bad--for a prison.” As Buddy curls up in welcoming arms, Joe continues in soothing tones. “I don't know what you've been through, I'm guessin' much the same as me: unwanted, always scrapin' by. And trust? No way. I'm a lifer, locked up forever, so I know what I'm talkin' about. Trust is hard but I got yer back and I won't let you down. Over the next few months, I'll always be here. Then when our time is done and you go to yer 'forever' home, you'll remember today: the beginning of your second chance--something we all deserve....” Joe's wistful voice trails off as he stands. Nodding to the guard, he heads back to his cell. Buddy trots along, deciding that the day couldn't end any better.

“Hey, Buddy, come on out,” comes a soft whisper. They gaze at one another, then, slowly, a hand slips in with gentle fingers to pat the new arrival. Tension seeps out of the weary little body and he noticeably begins to relax. Craving an act of kindness, he leans forward and hope replaces apprehension. Inching toward the opening, he wonders if it is worth the risk...

November | December 2009

Kathryn Randall lives in a small town in southern lower Michigan. Divorced for nine years, she lives in a tiny little gal’s house with a dog and three cats that allow her to be their roommate. Not really into girly-girl stuff like shopping, she would much rather sit under a tree and tap away on her laptop.

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Tail Docking:

Cruel and Unusual by Bobbi Leder

When you see certain breeds with docked tails, you probably don’t think twice, but is it really necessary to dock a dog’s tail?

Tail docking began for several reasons: to avoid tail damage, hygiene and appearance. As the owner of an English Cocker Spaniel, I can see the pros and the cons. Had we gotten our Euri as a puppy, we would have chosen not to dock his tail, but since we adopted him with a docked tail, there is nothing we can do now but laugh when he wags his little stub.

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November | December 2009

Euri goes for walks daily in the woods and the biggest risk I see is the thorns that get stuck in his fluffy ears, so why don’t breeders dock Cocker Spaniel’s ears like Dobermans? You cannot make an argument for one and not the other; it simply does not make sense.

Injury Because certain breeds are used for hunting, they often go through thick bush. It is thought that long wagging tails can tear and become injured while hunting, but why only dock some hunting dogs and not others? You don’t see a docked tail on a Labrador Retriever. Perhaps it is because a lab's tail is hardier and less fluffy, or perhaps it is because breeders simply do not think a docked tail on a Labrador Retriever will look aesthetically pleasing.

Hygiene Breeds like the Old English Sheepdog have long, thick coats which can lead to feces getting stuck and foul odors setting in. Docking a tail eliminates that problem. Why don't breeders dock the tails of Shih-Tzus where that is a continual problem? Most likely, because they look prettier with their tails.

or Usually Necessary? Appearance Cosmetic tail docking is all about appearances. In general, breeders believe that certain breeds (e.g. Boxers, Cocker Spaniels, Rottweilers) look better with a docked tail.

How is a tail docked? Banding is less painful and is used regularly by breeders. An orthodontic band is placed over the base of the puppy’s tail when he is just 24-96 hours old. This cuts off the blood supply to the end of the tail, and in about three days, that portion of the tail falls off. Sounds cruel but is it less cruel than male circumcision? Veterinarians cut the tail with surgical scissors or a knife which usually does not require stitches.

Is tail docking painful? You’ll get two different opinions on this one depending on who you ask. According to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), tail docking is indeed painful because the puppy has a fully developed nervous system. The WSAVA claims that certain biological markers show that the puppy is indeed in pain. Even the American Veterinary Association (AVA) states that tail docking is painful. However, many breeders are of the belief that tail docking is not painful, especially if the banding method is used. I can ask Euri if it was a painful experience, but chances are he won’t remember or understand what I’m saying. What I can tell you is that he does not like to have his tail (stub) touched.

Making Tail Docking Illegal The AVA believes that tail docking is cruel and unnecessary and therefore opposes the practice. The WSAVA is of the belief that tails are necessary to dogs, otherwise they would have evolved without them. However, if we use that argument, we can say that wisdom teeth are necessary because we are born with them yet many humans have their wisdom teeth pulled - is that cruel or necessary? It is also believed that dogs communicate with each other through their tails, so if a dog has a docked tail, miscommunication can arise. I’ve seen this happen with Euri because dogs simply cannot understand what his stub is saying.

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According to Animal Protective Services, cosmetic tail docking has been banned in the following countries*: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Croatia, Cyprus, England, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy (in Rome and Turin only), Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Scotland, Slovakia, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, and Wales. So most of Europe has banned tail docking yet America has not. Is that a sign that Americans are not only vain when it comes to their own bodies, but their dogs too? For more information visit the American Veterinary Medical Association at www.amva.org. *Under certain circumstances (e.g. medical and working dogs) tail docking is still allowed in some of the above countries. Bobbi Leder is a freelance writer living in Houston, TX with her husband and canine son. She has been published in magazines and on a plethora of web sites. Bobbi is also an Op/Ed writer for a Houston paper, and when not working, her life revolves around Euri, her English Cocker Spaniel. www.doglivingmagazine.com

Finding Utah by Roger Benton

It was official. I had spent my first night in the new house. My first house. I enjoyed renting at the beach but

the idea of tending to leaky roofs and a broken hot water heater was simply irresistible. My agent must have felt sorry for what she had put me into, because she gave me a $200 gift card to Target so that I might have a few more things than what would fit into my new closet. Home Depot would have been a wiser choice for this “fixer upper” but it turned into the best gift I have ever received. The thing is, I would have never gone shopping on a Saturday morning. I mean come on, I’m a homeowner now. I should be mowing my lawn or something. But as I pulled into the parking lot I slowed down for the rescue dogs confined to their cells. I looked twice and hit the brakes for no reason other than wanting to introduce myself to one of the guys. He was a big one and barely fit into his cage. There were lots of others. They were jumping on the gates and barking for attention but I paid them no mind. He was the one who had stared me down moving only his eyes and not his head. He seemed so lost and depressed. I felt as though there was a family sick in fear, trying to find their dog, which the rescue organization had named “Timmy” for no obvious reason. Later he would be known by such names as “The Man,” “The Manatee Man,” “The Man of All Men,” “Bone Man,” “Bonatee,” “Bonified Bone Man” and ultimately, “Special Agent Jonnie Utah.” When the others poked and prodded he would look away, and he did the same with me when I introduced myself saying, “What’s up Big Man.” I took Timmy for a walk around the parking lot and he still paid me no mind. I suspected he was a detective of sorts because his

November | December 2009

nose never left the ground and he was on the prowl for something of which I will never know. But I followed his trail and inevitably it led back to his cage to be left alone. When the woman asked me how it went, I told her the truth: “I don’t think he likes me.” As she asked me questions about my living situation, I was proud to announce that I was a homeowner and she was pleased to acknowledge that I was a candidate. As if I would be put on some sort of waiting list to take home this beast? A man approached Timmy’s cage and he immediately took point. The curly tail went straight and he sunk his head below his shoulders. The guy was wearing a dirty, white, wife-beater tank top and spittin’ dip on the curb. I heard him say, “Look at this one, he looks like a worker.” I will never forget the deep, slow, growl, as Timmy dropped his lower lip with the expression of a bear that you were sorry to bother, and despite his confinement, his teeth made all three of us take a couple of steps back. The white trash simply moved on and the disappointed woman understood when I told her that having a dog is a big commitment and not something to decide on a whim. Like the others before me, Timmy looked the other way in complete disinterest as I drove off. It wasn’t until I was in Target, with the distant echo of the woman describing the magnificent features of a toaster oven, that I realized I had made a huge mistake. She must have thought I was completely insane as I turned and ran for the door with no explanation while she was mid-sentence. All I could think of was that Timmy’s cage will be permanent if he ends up in the back yard of that scumbag who will inevitably kick the crap out of him when he is ticked at his wife. I didn’t know what I was going to do if he wasn’t still there. But he was. Apathetic and indifferent. The woman had me fill out the paperwork to attest my acknowledgement of such elusive concepts such as “dogs need food and water to live.” She also advised me that it would be a good idea to tie his leash to the door of my Jeep since it had no top and he could just jump out at will. In retrospect, I will never trust advice from a woman who paints her eyebrows on with a magic marker. Within minutes driving down Market Street he had tangled himself so profusely in the leash that it was choking him to death. I swerved into a gas station and frantically dug through my tool box where I found some wire cutters and snipped his neck free. The remainder of the trip would be on good faith. He was either with me or against me. I brought him inside and neither of us really knew what to do with ourselves. I decided to make him a bed out of some pillows and a sheet and motioned for him to get in it. I will never forget what came next. He threw himself onto his back and kicked all four legs frantically in the air. He was crazy. He looked completely insane rolling back and forth, kicking those legs and snorting. But in the end, watching the biggest dog I had ever seen from across the room, I knew he was trusting me just as much as I was trusting him. I also knew that he was the happiest man in the world. And since then, Special Agent Jonnie Utah has had the smile every day to prove it. Roger Benton lives in Wilmington with his wife Ashley Whitehurst and their 4 dogs, Zach, Rudy, Alabama, and of course Utah.

www.doglivingmagazine.com

All I Want for Christmas

Tail Waggers

“Of course I buy all of my dogs gifts for the Holidays,” I explained to one of my few non-dog-owning friends (as she rolled her eyes and gave me that, ‘you really are a crazy dog person’ look). As any true dog lover understands, our pups are a fundamental part of our family, with an emotional bond like no other. We want to include our dogs in every part of our lives and thank them for their unconditional love and companionship. The question then becomes, “What gifts would my dogs love to get this year?” Taking into account each of my dogs’ unique personalities, here are some great ideas for Santa that I know will make their tails wag! One piece of advice: Make sure your significant other and your kids (without fur) don’t see that Fido’s name tops theirs on your Holiday gift giving list!

by Elysa Cooper

A gift to share - all of my dogs are treat hounds - so I can never go wrong with bags of tasty treats.

Local Product Spotlight

Best Friend Biscuits Made right here in Southport, Carol White uses only the finest, all natural and organic ingredients to make her crunchy, wholesome treats. Best Friend Biscuits are available in 5 flavors even the most finicky dog will love, including peanut butter, oats & liver, cheese, sweet potato and carob. All varieties offer excellent nutritional benefits and purchasing these treats even helps dogs in need, since a portion of the proceeds benefit no-kill animal shelters. These biscuits are packaged in 5 oz. and 11oz. bags and are available in both everyday and holiday themed packs. Retail price range: $5.25- $10 To order or find a retailer near you: 910-448-0771 www.bestfriendbiscuit.com

West Paw Bumi The newest edition to their Zogoflex line of durable toys, the Bumi is more than a tug toy- you can pull it, flex it, throw it and float it. This toy is great for any active dog with its fun, springing action- the Bumi can actually be stretched to twice its length and then bounce back to its original curved shape. Best of all, it is guaranteed to last! The Bumi is also 100% recyclable and made in the USA. Available in 2 sizes and 3 bright colors.

Retail price range: $10-$13.50 To order or find a retailer near you: 800-443-5567 www.westpawdesign.com

November | December 2009

New to the Market

Little Red Wagon Bed Who didn’t want a little red wagon as a kid? Now your pups can ride off to dreamland in this cool Little Red Wagon Bed from Haute Diggity Dog. This retro novelty bed is made with a zip off, removable plush cover for easy cleaning and a soft, polyfill inner cushion. Available in one size for smaller dogs. Retail price: $249 To order or find a retailer near you: 702-257-0213 www.hautediggitydog.com

Miami – seasoned traveler, just wants to go - it does not matter where.

Cooper – loves to play, tough on toys.

New to the Market

May & June – Sisters who share everything- if you find one, you will find the other. Love to snuggle together.

Daisy – Gets cold when the temperature drops below 68 degrees. Prides herself on having a bigger wardrobe than her Mom.

New to the Market

Chilly Dog Sweaters These 100% organic wool sweaters from Chilly Dog are not just for the petite pooch. Handmade in South America, following Fair Trade Guidelines, these sweaters are created in sizes to fit any dog from 2 pounds to 120 pounds. With fresh, new designs every year, two of the latest include an adorable monkey and a fashionable peace sign.

Pet Gear Ultimate Traveler This new, multifunction traveler is perfect for small dogs on the go. Not only is it a carrier that meets most airline requirements for in-cabin flight, it can also be used as a car seat and a bicycle basket (comes with a universal bike attachment). The Ultimate Traveler can accommodate pets up to 15 lbs. and comes with a fleece pad for comfort, a tether for safety and plenty of storage pockets for all your dog’s “stuff.” Available in seven colors.

Retail price range: $29.95-$44.95 To order or find a retailer near you: 609-257-3198 www.chillydogsweaters.com

Retail price: $65.99 To order or find a retailer near you: 877-752-9123 www.petgearinc.com

New Designs

Are Poinsettias Really Poisonous? November 14, 2009 All day long! • Fun for all Howl-iday treats for all dogs in attendance and other refreshments for dogs and humans

Photos with Santa: Sunday, November 29 2:00pm-4:30pm Sunday, December 6 2:00pm-4:30pm Sunday, December 13 2:00pm-4:30pm

Coastal K-9 Bakery, Inc. 5905 #9 Carolina Beach Rd. Wilmington, NC 28412

910.794.4014

Toll Free 866.794.4014

www.coastalk9bakery.com

“Keep your dog away from the Poinsettias!” is commonly heard during the holiday season, but are poinsettias really toxic to dogs? According to the American Society of Florists, no other plant has been tested for toxicity more than the poinsettia. And the findings show that while poinsettias may be toxic, that doesn’t mean they’re deadly. A small child or dog would have to eat 500 to 600 leaves to exceed the doses used in one research study.

Who Started This Rumor? The deadly poinsettia myth dates back to the death of a two-year-old child in 1919. The child’s death was mistakenly attributed to the ingestion of poinsettia leaves.

So My Dog Can Eat Poinsettia Leaves? Chances are, your dog probably wouldn’t want to eat poinsettia leaves after getting a small taste. However, just because they aren’t necessarily deadly doesn’t mean they won’t upset your dog’s digestive system. So no, it’s not a good idea for Spot to eat the leaves, but there’s no need to panic if he does. Ingesting any type of plant is likely to cause vomiting and/or diarrhea. You will still find the poinsettia on almost every list of poisonous plants, but even the ASPCA Poison Control Center says the plants are “generally over-rated in toxicity” and may only cause irritation to the mouth and stomach.

Where Can I Find a List of Poisonous Plants? Check out www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/. www.doglivingmagazine.com

DOGnews

Brunswick Town welcomes canine companions

Pet Expo Coming in February Do you sell pet-related goods? If so, Monty’s Home Pet Expo is an excellent chance to show of your wares to eager buyers. Held on February 21, 2010, it’s not too soon to reserve your booth space. This is the largest indoor pet event in the Wilmington area and pet owners flock to the event each year in growing numbers. The event is also a fundraiser for Monty’s Home, a non-profit grief support and rescue organization. Find more information at www.montyshome.org. Like a good sale? How about 50% off?! Once a month the ReTails Thrift Shop in Raleigh holds “Clean Sweep Sunday” when everything in the store is 50% off. Even better, 100% of the net profits go to fund “The $20 Fix” which is a program administered through the AnimalKind organization that allows low-income families to spay/neuter their pets for twenty dollars or less. Over 6700 pets have been altered through this program since 2004. ReTails Thrift Shop is located at 1608 North Market Drive and you can visit them on the web at www.animalkind.org Brunswick Town Welcomes Your Dog There are many places to enjoy with your dog, but we especially love it when a place is openly welcoming our canine pals. Brunswick Town Director Brenda Bryant called Dog Living Magazine to let us know that this state park encourages you to bring your dog for a visit! Brunswick Town has history, great walking trails and gorgeous views of the Cape Fear River. The park is located between Leland and Southport off of Highway 133 and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9am-5pm. For directions, call 910-371-6613 or visit www.nchistoricsites.org.

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

November | December 2009

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November | December 2009

www.doglivingmagazine.com

Retractable leashes are: 12% 20% 48% 20%

A great invention The source of bad trail etiquette Good, if they’re used correctly Never a good idea

Coming in January: • Howlin’ Good Beer • The Tale of the Traveling Shih Tzus • Is Your Dog Fat?

November | December 2009

This month’s question: Is Tail Docking: • Necessary? • Cruel? • Depends on the circumstances?

Answer online at www.doglivingmagazine.com -or- send your answer to editor@doglivingmagazine.com and put “Doghouse Poll” in the subject line.

As Visions Of Bones Dance In Their Heads.... Gourmutt's Bakery & Boutique has this year's hottest gifts for canines. Plus great gifts for the people who love them. From scrumptious all-natural treats baked on site to unique toys, free range bones, spa gift sets, breed specific gifts and much more.

Don’t let your furry family members be left out at the holidays!

Gourmutt’s

Gourmutt’s Bakery treats may be Falls Village Shopping Center purchased in 6675 Falls of Neuse Rd, Suite 123 Wilmington at Raleigh, NC 27615 Dog Gone Crazy and (919) 870-8220 Aunt Kerry’s Pet Stop!

Bakery & Boutique

10-6 Monday-Saturday Closed Sunday