Modern Dog Spring 2016

Wonder why your dog likes some people but not others? We have the answer on p42!

The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions

Let's

S P RI NG 2016

SHY DOG?

Play!

How to Help! p27

Thrill Your Dog With These Toys

Publications Agreement Number 40743013 Return Mail Dept, 202–343 Railway St., Vancouver, BC V6A 1A4

p38

'RE T E W GI IN GIV AY! AWp22

Bad Dog Behaviour

Your Dog May Be Trying to Get Your Attention! p58 moderndogmagazine.com DISPLAY UNTIL JUNE ‘16

p66

Too Adorable! Dynamic Duos

p46

Your dog could be on our next cover!

The Science of Choosing Your Dog's Name

$5.95

WHAT YOUR VET WISHES YOU KNEW HOW TO STOP DIGGING GEAR FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS

p114

Help Your Dog Make Friends

plus: Read Your Breed: the Dachshund, Greyhound, Collie, American Hairless Terrier & more!

tex & miss patches snort submitted by sydney quinn

VOL 15

NO 1

26

Shy Dog Tips and tricks to help shy dogs come out of their shell.

32

How To Stop Your Dog From Digging Dogs dig digging. Their people? Not so much. Here’s what to do if you don’t want your dog to dig.

40

A Veterinarian Clinic’s Thoughts On Pet Insurance Wondering whether pet insurance is worth the expense?

Here’s a veterinarian clinic’s take on the subject.

BY THE TEAM AT YALETOWN PET HOSPITAL

BREED PROFILE

42

Why Dogs Like Some People But Not Others The answer may surprise you.

24

Find Your Match: The Hound Edition Is the Dachshund or the Greyhound the dog for you?

Flip to page 24 to find out!

52

Know Your Dogs Get to know two newly recognized breeds, the American Hairless Terrier and the Sloughi.

108

The Collie Brave, loyal, and highly intelligent—is the Collie the dog for you? BY KELLY CALDWELL

BY STEVE DUNO

46

BY NICOLE WILDE

BY STANLEY COREN

The Science of Choosing a Dog’s Name

46

BY YVONNE ZACHARIAS

52

Saying Goodbye When is it "time?" Facing difficult end-of-life decisions with acceptance and grace. BY RENÉE FLEMING

58

Attention-Seeking Behaviours What they look like and how to address them.

62

Rescue Road One man, thirty thousand dogs, and a million miles on the last hope highway. BY PETER ZHEUTLIN

66

Best Buds Two can be trouble but a dynamic duo always wins!

90

Best Friends Forever An animal lover's dream vacation. BY

102

The Inbetweeners The unsung heroes that rehabilitate dogs rescued from egregious abuse (think puppy mill seizures and hoarding cases) play a vital if oftentimes unrecognized role in saving animals desperately in need of kindness and a second chance. BY CHRISTOPHER PARÉ

BY POOJA MENON

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SPRING 2016

JENNIFER NOSEK

114

How to Introduce Dogs Making a good impression: four steps to successful dog introductions. BY TEOTI ANDERSON

BODY & SOUL 70

Your Dog is Going To Need Those Teeth For a Long Time

72

Tips for Dazzling Smile; Thirst Quencher; Modern Dog Poll

74

An All Natural Dog Food & Treat Company On A Mission To Help; Call of the Wild; DIY Projects

76

You Need These Apps; How to Find the Best, Approved Dog Products

78

Fifteen Signs Your Dog is in Pain

80

Get Inspired!

Pocket-sized inspiration cards to stick on your fridge or use as a bookmark.

PHOTO TANYA KING

FEATURES

66

SPRING 2016

THE GOODS 38

Let’s Play!

Terrific toys to delight your dog.

56

Get Outside!

Fun finds to make the most of the season.

88

Look What We Found Cool finds for the dogs and the people who love them.

LIVING 12

Lessons in Smiling These dogs will turn any frown upside down!

22

We’re Giving It Away!

We’ve got three months of awesome giveaways, from delicious healthy treats to an airline-approved pet carrier.

And winners every week! See the dog goods that could be yours on page 22!

REGULAR FEATURES 6 Editor’s Letter 8 Contributors 10 Stuff We Love 14 The Scoop 20 Smile! Photo Contest 125 Marketplace

56

LINUS & SCHROEDER SUBMITTED BY KATHY DUNHAM

PHOTO ILLONA HAUS OF SCRUFFY DOG PHOTOGRAPHY

52

12 34

Stars, They’re Just Like Us! Candid snaps of celebrities out and about with their pups.

36

DIY Eat: Make a Birthday Cake for Your Dog! We all love a cake on our birthday, so why not indulge your dog with a little treat on hers?

82

Clean and Green Skin irritants, cancer causing ingredients…why you should make sure your dog’s grooming products—as well as your own—are eco-friendly. BY DARCY MATHESON

86

Make a Ruckus!

Meet our Star Dog contest winner.

96

America's Most Eligible Prepare to fall in love with a real-life dog-rescuing prince still in search of love.

100

Why Keeping Your Dog's Nails Trimmed is Way More Important Than You Think Knowing how to trim nails greatly improves your dog's health and happiness. BY DR. PETER DOBIAS

112

How To Use Touch Therapy to Heal Your Dog We asked energy practitioner and animal communicator Cindy Brody to share healing techniques you can try at home.

117

Connie’s Book Club Curl up with a good dog and a good book.

Editor-in-Chief Connie Wilson’s selection of this spring’s must-read dog books.

120

Ask Dog Lady Bothered and bewildered? Crazed and confused?

Dog Lady delves into your most dogged dilemmas.

128

Last Lick: How I Met My Dog

38

BY MONICA COLLINS

BY KARLOS DILLARD

ON THE COVER

Meet Ruckus, spunky senior Vizsla, cancer survivor, and winner of our Star Dog Contest!

Photographed by Darcy Evans.

Ruckus wears Auburn Leathercrafter's durable, reflective, adjustable Web collar in red. (From $20, collarsandmore.com)

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SPRING 2016

In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 15, Issue 1. Published quarterly

by Modern Dog Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 06111-4003. Periodicals postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402.

EDITOR'S LETTER

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.

W

e’ve sure come a long way!

Unbelievably, back in the 80s it was commonplace for animal shelters to routinely kill the overwhelming majority of the cats and dogs that would come into their care as the primary method of handling an unwanted animal population. In the US alone, 17 million animals perished each year, with the older, sick or problem animals being the first to go.

What a horrifying and shameful statistic!

Moved by this tragedy, a group of likeminded friends began taking some of those so-called “unadoptables” to a safe haven to heal before adopting them out to forever homes. As the group’s rescue efforts grew, they found they needed more space, so when they happened upon an idyllic piece of land—3,700 acres of it in the high desert of Kanab, Utah—they jumped, buying it and founding a grass-roots nonprofit organization and animal welfare society they named Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Their mandate, to “Save Them All,” is a goal they’ve dedicated their lives to working towards and they’ve made considerable ground. Though there’s still a long ways to go, the dream that animals will no longer be killed in America’s shelters is in reach, provided we all work together.

To visit the Sanctuary was the fulfillment of a long-held dream

and it our pleasure to share this magical place with you. For more on these visionaries and the wonderful sanctuary they have built, flip to page 90.

Thanks to the phenomenal efforts of groups such as Best Friends, there has been a sea change in public perception of shelter animals. This issue is dedicated to celebrating all the heroes for animals out there—the rescuers, fosterers, animal transporters, and everyday heroes who mentor kindness and compassion. You’ll find inspiring stories of regular people (and one prince!) doing amazing things for animals throughout this issue, along with our usual: photos to make you smile (p 12), dog-approved recipes (make a birthday cake for your dog! (p 36), essential training how-tos, must-read books, and so much more! We hope you love the issue as much as we loved putting it together. And remember, together we can change the world!

Wishing you every blessing,

Connie Wilson, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

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SPRING 2016

KALANI SUBMITTED BY MELISSA & AUSTIN ARONSSON

Congrats to our readers Melissa & Austin Aronsson who adopted Kalani as this issue went to press and entered this adorable photo in our photo contest. They share, “We saw her photo on our local SPCA site and IMMEDIATELY drove to get her! She is a mini version of our dog Rusty who is also an SPCA alumni! She is melting our hearts everyday.”

PHOTO KHAREN HILL

—Margaret Mead

C ON TRIBUT OR S

PHOTO JO-ANNE MCARTHUR, WEANIMALS.ORG

SPRING 2016

Christopher Paré is a journalist who left a career in radio to help animals. Now Director of Communications for Humane Society International/Canada, a nonprofit animal welfare organization, he authored this issue’s "The Inbetweeners", honouring the unsung heroes of animal rescue (page 102).

Christopher has a big, fuzzy cat named Hamachi who enjoys hugs and eating watermelon. His hobbies include DJing and collecting vinyl.

Last but not least, he is married to the amazing Leyenda Lee, soup queen of Montreal, whom he loves with all his heart.

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VOL 15

NO 1

Publisher

Modern Dog Inc. Editor-in-Chief

Connie Wilson Editor & Creative Director

Jennifer Nosek Audience Development & Digital Marketing Director

Lauren Cheal Social Media & Events Coordinator, Subscription Services

Taryn Cheal Assistant Art Director

Natalie Gagnon Sales & Marketing

Julia Klymenko, Jacqueline Lowndes Junior Accountant

Celine Benipayo Sales & Subscription Services

Nav Nagra Web Writer

Rebekah Chotem Controller

Cecilia de Roca Chan, CPA, CGA Honourary Editor-at-Large

Jytte Wilson

Darcy Matheson is a television journalist, dog blogger, and founder of PetFundr, a crowdfunding site solely dedicated to helping animal welfare projects. As the proud dog mama to Murphy Brown, a Norfolk Terrier, and Seymour, a lovable mutt, Darcy became interested in environmentally friendly animal care.

Her new book, Greening Your Pet Ownership, out April 1st, is a terrific guide for safe and sustainable pet care—from nutrition to habitat to activities—designed to minimize your environmental footprint. Flip to page 82 for some of Darcy’s terrific tips and DIYs for green dog grooming!

GET YOURSELF A SUBSCRIPTION! Give us a call at 1-800-417-6289 or subscribe online at moderndogmagazine.com/subscribe Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 In Canada: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 15, Issue 1.

Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4 POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4 In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 15, Issue 1. Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 06111-4003.

Periodicals postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402.

PHONE

The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, images, photographs or other materials. By accepting and publishing advertising the publisher in no way recommends, guarantees or endorses the quality of services or products within those advertisements.

This issue marks the talented Kara Pyle’s Modern Dog debut! Kara is a freelance illustrator/designer and dog walker based in Toronto, ON. Kara reports: “I love dogs and hope to be a Pomsky [that would be a Pomeranian/Husky cross] owner in a year’s time!” When she’s not drinking coffee by the gallon and drawing, Kara enjoys exploring the city, going to music festivals, and dancing. See Kara’s illustration for "Shy Dogs: Tips and Tricks to Help Your Shy Dog Come Out of Her Shell” on page 26.

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SPRING 2016

(604) 734-3131 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3131 (604) 734-3031 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3031

FAX

Copyright 2016 by Modern Dog Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means, electronic or mechanical, including the Internet or photocopying without the written permission of the Publisher. Modern Dog and its logotype are the trademarks of Modern Dog Inc. Modern Dog is published four times a year. One-year subscription prices: Canada $16CAD, U.S.A. $16USD, foreign $45USD. Subscription orders and customer service inquiries should be sent to Modern Dog Subscription Services, Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4

PRINTED IN CANADA

www.moderndogmagazine.com Publications Mail Agreement Number 40743013 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l'appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

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STUFF WE LOVE Modern Dog staffers’ picks of the litter 1 Contain the flying water and dry your dog in a flash! The super-absorbent Zip n’ Dri from Dog Gone Smart is perfect for drying dogs after bath time or wet dog-park excursions—just zip up your wet dog and use the hand flaps to dry her off!—Julia (From $44, dgspetproducts.com)

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2 This sterling silver Friends Furr-Ever friendship pendant is the perfect accessory. Its sophisticated beauty adds style to any outfit, but what I love most is that 40% of the proceeds of purchase are donated to charity!—Connie ($65, foreverinmyheartjewelry.com) 3 As a puppy I gobbled up my food so fast that I couldn’t breathe! Older and wiser, I now eat at a slower pace, with thanks due to the Be One Breed Slow Feeder for helping me along the way. Its raised pattern forces me to work around the edges in order to reach my food, so I avoid bloat and indigestion. I recommend it to all my fellow voracious eaters!—Lexi the Rat Terrier (From $15, beonebreed.com)

BM

4 A taste of the tropics to brighten those dreary rainy days, this Tropical Palms bed from Humblebeasts has me dreaming of sandy beaches, coconuts, and crystal blue seas. My hot-weather-loving Dachshund Esther loves curling up in this vibrant bed!— Jennifer ($56, humblebeasts.com)

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5 I can’t wait for mealtime when I know Valens Dog Food is on the menu. Rich meats (like salmon, bison, and beef), are combined with my favourite fresh fruits and vegetables—rich in antioxidants and fibre—giving me the health boost I need to stay active!—Penny the Wirehaired Dachshund (From $24, valenspetnutrition.com) 6 Prevent icky eyes with the Gentle Tear Stain wipes from Angels’ Eyes. These madein-America wipes help remove dried mucus secretions, discharge, and tear stains.

Used daily, they can help keep the eye exterior clean and reduce the risk of eye irritations!—Lauren ($14, angelseyesonline.com) 7 Nipping in for a coffee but want peace of mind when Fido is outside? Shockingly, approximately two million dogs are stolen each year. Keep your dog secure with a steel cable reinforced Safespot Locking Dog Leash from Pawz.—Natalie ($70, chewy.com)

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8 These dehydrated raw treats and food toppers have all the dogs barking. Boosters from Boo Boo’s Best are all natural, super nutritious, and made from less-common protein sources like bison and kangaroo—the perfect boost to your dog’s diet!— Jacquie (From $5, booboosbest.com) 9 My dog always knows when I open up a bag of Riley’s Organics yumming smelling dog treats. Full of healthy ingredients, multivitamins, and antioxidants, these humangrade treats are irresistible!—Taryn ($8, rileysorganics.com)

^

10 Having personally tested the Dead Sea's healing waters this past summer, I was so excited to try Soos Pets' Dead Sea natural spa products on my dog! The verdict was no surprise: I loved how the unique, soothing combination of essential minerals (not found in any other ocean!) along with plants, roots, and herbs rejuvenated Minuit's skin and coat while boosting immunity, detoxifying, and promoting healthy cell growth. Great for dogs with sensitive skin, chronic skin conditions, and allergies. Ancient healing at work! —Rebekah ($40 for the Hypoallergenic bundle, soospets.com) 11 Travel in style with Anvali Milano’s customizable leather passport case. They’re made to order so you choose any breed you’d like!—Celine ($29, etsy.com/shop/Anvali) 12 Give your dog the perfect place to curl up after a day spent in the great outdoors!

Quilted and waterproof, Kurgo's Loft Wander bed rolls up like a sleeping bag, making it perfect for every dog out on an adventure!—Nav ($65, kurgo.com)

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PHOTO MLMPHOTOGRAPHYPDX.COMY

Say Cheese, Calli!

Linus & Schroeder

Nancy Vitulic & Archie

Chase

! w w w A

LESSONS IN SMILING These dogs will turn any frown upside down!

Mercedez

Arrow Mala

Tosh

Kane

Reeba Blue

For a behind-the-scenes look at what we’re up to in the MD offices, the latest breaking stories and videos, cool contests, events, & exclusive giveaways, become a fan of Modern Dog on Facebook & follow us on Twitter, Instagram, & Pinterest. Go to facebook.com/moderndogmag, twitter.com/moderndogmag, instagram.com/moderndogmag & pinterest.com/moderndogmag.

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SPRING 2016

THE SCOOP

GET A MYSTERY CRATE OF GEEKY GOODIES FOR YOUR DOG Get your geek on! Loot Crate, a monthly subscription box for geeks and gamers, has introduced Loot Pets, a box just for dogs.

SqueakNSnap Finally, someone has addressed the very real problem of trying to get your dog’s attention while still managing to capture the moment on your phone!

Who doesn’t love an impromptu photo shoot with their pooch? We can’t resist snapping photos of our adorable best friends (the proof is in the photo stream), but that doesn’t mean they’re always willing to cooperate! The struggle (distracted dog, ruined picture) is real. Luckily, SqueakNSnap has created a very effective— and adorable—solution. All you have to do is plug the SqueakNSnap into the headset jack of your smart phone, open up your camera app, and squeeze the teddy bear-shaped squeaker now connected to your phone. The teddy squeaks, getting your dogs attention, and simultaneously causes your camera to take a photo, ensuring that you capture that perfect moment every time. SqueakNSnap is automatically recognized by your phone once you open up your camera app, making this clever device super simple to use. And, if there wasn’t enough to love already, SqueakNSnap also donates a portion of all proceeds to the American Humane Association and Toys for Tots (the SqueakNSnap is great for taking pictures of little kids too!). Time to get snapping! $20, squeaknsnap.com

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SPRING 2016

If you’re a big a fan of sci-fi, fantasy, and superheroes, Loot Pets is the perfect way to deck your dog out with nifty pet gear.

Each Loot Pets crate is filled with licensed and exclusive apparel, toys, accessories and more—think The X-Files, Space Invaders, Battlestar Galactica, and more—each box a $50 value for just $25 (or $30 international, including shipping). Discovering exactly what’s inside is a mystery you’ll get to unravel with your pups when your box arrives on your doorstep!

Check it out at lootcrate.com.

THE SCOOP

Add Some Rescue Dog Cuteness To Your Insta Feed!

Ever wondered what it would be like to adopt three large rescue dogs while living in the heart of the city? Bostonbased Jenna Donleavy is living it, and documents the inevitable hilarity and chaos on her Instagram account, @Knox_and_Bear. These pups know exactly how to have a good time and be totally adorable while doing so!

Whether it's birthday parties, Vermont getaways, bathing or simply snoozing, Jenna and her packs' adventurous spirit shines through.

While you’re at it, follow @moderndogmag for cute dogs galore plus behind-the-scenes pics of the goings on in the Modern Dog offices

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SPRING 2016

Woof Weekend

photo left eric poulin, ericpoulinphoto.com; photo right emike crane/tourism whistler

THE SCOOP

Imagine a weekend getaway created especially for dogs and dog lovers, held in a world class, spectacular, natural setting, and benefitting dogs in need. Sounds dreamy, right? That’s why you’ll find us at the third annual Woof Weekend at the Westin, an energizing getaway for you and your canine companion, taking place October 14–16 in beautiful Whistler, BC. Woof Weekend has an event or activity to entice every member of your family.

Think working up an appetite on a dog-friendly adventure hike, private training sessions, a picnic lunch, and the famed K9 Wine & Dine gala dinner. And when you retire at the end of the evening, your entire pack will do so in style. Westin welcomes dogs free of charge—they’re family members, after all—and will provide your dog-tired pups with signature Heavenly Dog Beds. All in all, it’s a divine weekend and it’s in benefit of a great organization—WAG, Whistler’s local animal shelter.

The details: From $150 per night per person (based on double occupancy), which includes dog-friendly accommodation, activities, breakfast each morning, and the gala dinner. Find more info at woofweekend.com. To get involved with WAG, visit whislterwag.com.

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SPRING 2016

photo left eric poulin, ericpoulinphoto.com

The ultimate getaway for dog people

THE SCOOP CAPTION THIS!

DOGS LIKE YOU’VE NEVER SEEN THEM BEFORE!

AND THE WINNING CAPTION FROM THE WINTER ISSUE IS…

Action, adventure, and dogs are set to come together in Superpower Dogs, an immersive, giant screen family adventure set to hit theatres late 2017. Chronicling the

lives of real-life super dogs and their human companions, this documentary will be presented in IMAX and 3D. Using specially designed camera equipment alongside visceral CGI, it will allow audiences to experience the world as never before: through the eyes, ears and nose of a dog.

“Think James Bond meets dogs!” exclaims Taran Davies, one of the film's producers. The documentary will “put people in the heart of the action, whether it’s Newfoundland’s leaping from helicopters to save people from drowning, Labrador puppies training to rescue earthquake victims or Bloodhounds protecting endangered species in Africa,” explains co-producer George Duffield, adding, “Pet lovers are going to go crazy for this experience.”

The film will follow five real-life canine superheroes and their human partners as they brave earthquakes and avalanches, bring animal poachers to justice, protect people from danger, and lift spirits.

To capture these action-packed scenes requires a lot of preproduction work, from scouting locations to finding their “superpower” dogs, and figuring out the intricacies of capturing the spectacle of these incredible dogs at work.

Location scouting and casting is taking place now and filming is planned at locations around the world, including Italy, Kenya, Switzerland, Canada and the U.S. Think your dog has superpowers?

Superpower Dogs invites you to nominate your super dog for feature in the film via their social media channels.

Either way, prepare to be wowed. As Davies notes, “The film will showcase the heroic accomplishments of dogs in a way that people have never seen before.”

The film’s release is set to coincide with the opening of the California Science Center's Science of Dogs exhibit in late 2017. We can’t wait.

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SPRING 2016

"Will you grab my towel? It's the wet, muddy one. I think I left it on your bed."

SUBMITTED BY STEPHANIE LAU

RUNNER-UP CAPTIONS There's been an unfortunate accident... could you please pass me a poop-bag? SUBMITTED BY CORRIE "Seriously, Bill, do I come into the bathroom when you're in the shower? Oh wait. Yes... yes I do... Carry on!"

SUBMITTED BY MARLA STAHL

"What are you trying to do Gary!? Burn my fur off??

Turn that faucet off!" SUBMITTED BY KRISTEN "Hey, I just wanted to let you know that I left my toothbrush on the....oh, you found it."

SUBMITTED BY ELAINE THALLER

C A R T O O N S © 2016 B Y D A V I D J A C O B S O N

Exercise your funny bone. Create a caption for this cartoon and submit your entry at moderndogmagazine.com/cartooncaption.

The most comic captions will be published in the next issue.

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E L I M S

Modern Dog’s Photo Contest Winners!

Seulong Meeko

Meeko

German Shepherd & Husky Mix

Pekingese

Shiba Inu

Xxx Xxx

Jingle Corgi

Toshii

Japanese Spitz

Atlas

Australian Shepherd

Chuck

Border Collie & Corgi Mix

Bubba

Spanish Podenca Mix 20 moderndog

SPRING 2016

Rookie

Mini Australian Shepherd

Mac

Pitbull

Lilly

Shih Tzu

Daisy

English Bulldog

Bentley Sheets Oakley Goldendoodle

Australian Cattle Dog

Harley American Staffordshire Terrier

Dexter McGoogles Dachschund

Dixie

Pitbull Terrier & German Shepherd Mix

the Two Mr. Frank Furter Scooter Legged Wonder Dog Mini Dachschund &

Lucy

Blue Heeler

Chihuahua Mix

Chihuahua Mix

Talou

Alaskan Malamute

Hitch Miniature

Australian Shepherd

Choochie

Sabre

Pomeranian

Maremma Sheepdog

Harley

Australian Shepherd

Sweet Blossom

Think your dog ought to be in Modern Dog? Upload your dog’s photo at moderndogmagazine.com/ photocontest.

Not only will he or she be entered to be our Dog of the Week, but a selection of the photos entered will appear on these pages!

Sheltie

moderndogmagazine.com

21

ENTER TO WIN

We’re giving it away! Enter to win fabulous giveaways each and every week in March, April, and May. Go to moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways to enter! Lucky readers will win every week.

march

1st-7th

Win 1 of 20 Apple Crisp treats from Dogs Love Kale. These healthy snacks are made with limited humangrade ingredients your dog will love!

april

1st-7th

Win 1 of 25 bottles of all natural Beef Flavored Spray, made in the USA with flax and chia seed oil. Adds essential Omega-3’s to every meal.

may

1st-7th

Win 1 of 4 Interchangeable Pet Carriers by Miso Pup. Prize includes airline approved Mesh “Base” Pet Carrier Bag and choice of one Handbag “Shell” Tote for you and your little one.

8th-14th

15th-21st

22nd-31st

8th-14th

15th-21st

22nd-30th

Win 1 of 8 copies of Dr. Petty’s Pain Relief for Dogs, the complete guide to treating dog pain through traditional medicine and holistic healing, by a leading pain-management vet, from Countryman Press.

Win a $250 Gift Certificate towards a Transatlantic Cunard Cruise with Kennel Service. Kennel services include a full time kennel master who takes care of the walking, cleaning, and feeding.

8th-14th

Win 1 of 12 bottles of Cetyl M Regular Strength Joint Action Formula for Dogs! Supports healthy joints and helps maintain optimal health.

Win 1 of 3 Spring Sampler Bags from Boo Boo's Best, featuring four varieties of delicious Boosters! dog treats & toppers, tote bag, and a snazzy bandana!

Win one of six Pet Beach Travel Kits from Outer Beaches Realty, your source for pet-friendly beach rentals!

Includes two collapsible bowls, waste bags, a towel and a handy tote!

15th-21st

Win 1 of 12 copies of The Practical Handbook of Veterinary Homeopathy: Healing Our Companion Animals from the Inside Out! This book will help you reduce or eliminate your dog's dependence on medications.

Win 1 of 10 Be Forever Furless Brushes. Lilly Brush effortlessly removes pet hair from upholstery, clothing, carpets, and more! No mess, No waste, No refills.

Win 1 of 10 bags of Honest Kitchen's new Proper Toppers, 100% humangrade dehydrated superfood bites that can be added to meals to boost taste and add whole food nutrition!

Available April 2016.

22nd-31st

Win 1 of 4 Puppy McQueen Collections including Deodorizing Body Spray, Waterless Shampoo, Rinse-Off Oil, and a full set of non-toxic, water-based, transfer-proof pet hair colours!

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Beginning March 1, 2016 at 12:01 AM (PST) through May 31, 2016 at 11:59 PM (PST), enter each day at moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways. Each week’s giveaway ends at 11:59 PM (PST). Each week, the specified number of winners for that week’s giveaway will win the prize featured in the giveaway calendar (ARV: $200). Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. Contest is open to legal Canadian and US residents 18 and older as of date of entry. Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. Giveaway subject to complete official rules available at moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways.

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SPRING 2016

INSET PHOTO: OLIVER SUBMITTED BY LIZ SIERRA

s y a w a e v i G t a Gre

THE HOUND EDITION

Find Your Match The Dachshund The wonderful "wiener dog" No doubt about it: the Dachshund, with its sausage body, stubby legs, and waving tail, is probably the world's most recognizable breed. But make no mistake—though short of stature this breed has a big personality.

Whether going underground to chase small game or attempting to steal food from the coffee table, this breed is fearless. (The breed standard notes the Dachshund is “courageous to the point of rashness.”) This characteristic traces back hundreds of years to the Dachshund's roots as a hunting dog developed by German foresters to track game to its burrows.

As the huntsmen of the 18th century discovered the value of these low-slung yet energetic hounds, they began to breed coat varieties to suit different uses: the Dachshund was crossed with spaniels to produce the Longhaired Dachshund and with the Dandie Dinmont Terrier to create the Wirehaired.

Small-sized Dachshunds, used to hunt smaller game, eventually became established as Miniatures. There are three coat varieties to choose from and two official sizes (Standards are usually from 16 to 32 pounds and Minis are under 11 pounds) as well as a wide range of colours.

Unfortunately, that distinctive long body means one in four Dachshunds will develop disc problems called Canine Intervertebral Disc Disease. It is paramount to make sure this breed stays trim and doesn't engage in risky behaviours like jumping off furniture, standing up on hind legs, or climbing too many stairs, all of which put extra strain on backs. Devoted Dachshund fanciers, however, will have no issue with the extra care and consideration loving a wonderful “wiener dog” entails.

Could the Dachshund be the breed for you? Read more at moderndogmagazine.com/dachshund

The Greyhound

Great of heart

This tall elegant hound, possessing incredible speed and a big heart, has been capturing human affections for longer than just about any other breed.

References to Greyhounds in art and literature date back thousands of years, including a mention in the Bible. From Greek gods to Egyptian nobles, everyone wanted a sleek Greyhound at their side.

The breed began as a hunting dog par excellence.

Everything about the Greyhound, ancient or modern, says “speed.” Long legs, slim head, deep chest, fine coat, a unique “hinged” spine—all contribute to the Greyhound’s status as third fastest animal in the world. However, the Greyhound has another secret edge: his heart really is huge. Relative to body size, the Greyhound heart is not only larger and more efficient than any other dog’s, but outperforms that of the Thoroughbred racehorse.

Despite his love of running, however, the Greyhound is essentially a couch potato that can curl

up into a surprisingly small space. Naturally hardy and easy to care for, the Greyhound's fine coat makes grooming minimal. The downside is that the fine coat, along with very little body fat, leaves the hounds susceptible to winter’s chills.

The Greyhound’s gentle, laid-back nature makes him an excellent family pet, as has been discovered by the thousands of owners who have adopted former racers retired from the track. Note that this breed can run and loves to chase so a leash or fenced exercise area is necessary. Of sweet temperament, Greyhounds can make excellent therapy dogs, visiting hospitals and seniors’ care homes, where their long legs make them just the right size to lay a head on a hospital bed or nudge a hand.

Could the Greyhound be the breed for you? Read more at moderndogmagazine.com/greyhound

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Shy Dog

Tips and tricks to help shy dogs come out of their shell

By Steve Duno Illustration by Kara Pyle

T

ied outside the entrance of a café, the young Border Colliemix paced and panted. An approaching couple, assuming that a dog tethered outside of a café would be friendly, moved toward him to say hello. But before they could get within five feet, he erupted into a frenzy of barks and shrieks and then urinated. The dog’s person rushed out, coffee in hand. “Sorry— he’s a bit shy,” she said, the dog cowering into her. Untying the dog, she quickly led him away down the street.

For a “normal” dog, this would have been a welcome encounter. But for a chronically shy dog, something as simple as a casual hello from a stranger can be a terrifying experience. It goes without saying that this timid dog should never have been left out there alone, waiting to fail.

This example is an extreme case of shyness (extreme shyness can look like aggression), but there’s a whole spectrum of timidity. Read on to determine if your dog is shy and how you can use confidence boosting exercises to help her feel at ease.

Is Your Dog Shy? Signs of Shyness Typically, a dog’s behaviour and body posture will alert you to his timidity. A shy dog might exhibit any or all of the following: • Ears flattened back to the head • Cowering posture • Shying away from interactions with other dogs and/or people • Tail tucked between the legs • Panting or shaking

• Dilated, glassy eyes • Skulking, pacing, hiding, or escaping • Whining or barking • Raised hackles • Fear of eye contact • Sneering, nipping or biting • Submissive urination

Some shy dogs exhibit shy behaviour only toward people, while others show it only toward dogs. Many, though, will display the behavior toward both, or even in stressful situations that don’t involve a person or dog. Thunder, fireworks, traffic, or any unpredictable circumstance can trigger a shy dog into a panic.

Why Shy? Causes of chronic timidity in dogs are numerous, and include one or more of the following: • Hereditary predisposition • Chronic abuse • Improper socialization during • Injury or attack the first eight weeks of life • Medical issues, including • Traumatic occurrence during hearing loss, thyroid the first “fear imprint” imbalance, epilepsy, stage, from 8–11 weeks or chronic pain Rescue dogs in particular can suffer from shyness, due not only to trauma associated with being in a noisy shelter with many unknown dogs, but from the abrupt (and often serial) termination of comforting relationships with an adoptive family. When a dog is abruptly denied the comfort of a reliable, loving situation, and deprived of any dependable routine, he can develop antisocial tendencies.

Don’t!

There are certain situations and actions you should attempt to avoid with your timid, fearful dog. They include: • Tethering her outside an establishment such as a café, store or library while you go inside. People coming and going will try to pet her; this will reinforce her fears, and perhaps cause a biting incident.

• Forcing your dog into a fearful situation, thinking it’s a “sink-or-swim” solution. It will only make things worse!

• Telling friends and strangers to make eye contact with her and to reach out to greet her. Instead, let your dog initiate the greeting.

• Having large, boisterous groups in the home. Putting her into a room or a crate will make matters worse, because she can still hear the noise, but not go anywhere to avoid it. Only use the crate or room if it is located far moderndogmagazine.com

27

enough away for her to not hear the stimulus. The hectic activity of children should particularly be avoided.

• Overbearing training styles.

• Forcing a shy, hiding dog out from under tables, sofas or chairs when scared. Instead, let her come out of her own accord. If you must get her out, keep a leash on her in the home and use it to coax her out. Then have her sit for a treat.

• Taking her into chaotic urban environs or areas with unpredictable activity, such as a skateboard park or a fireworks display. Instead, always think ahead, and choose venues you know won’t panic her.

How to Help a Bashful Dog Enjoy the Finer Things in Life: Easing a Shy Dog’s Worries Via Confidence Building Exercises Though you may not be able to turn a shy dog into a socialite, there are techniques you can use to ease the stress and raise a timid pooch’s confidence. These include: OBEDIENCE TRAINING A shy dog that knows exactly what you are asking of her will be less likely to panic. It’s essential to teach your timid dog the basic commands, especially “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Come.” Never use an overbearing, intimidating style, and avoid yelling or undo emotion. Stay calm and supportive, but avoid coddling and overthe-top, exaggerated praise. Treats and toys are helpful tools to keep her mood upbeat during training. Begin teaching all new behaviours in a quiet indoor spot with no distractions. Then, over time, gradually introduce distractions, such as a friend reading a newspaper, a football game on the television, or kids playing outside a window. Eventually take the obedience outside. If your shy dog is liable to run off when scared, keep a leash on her.

DOGGIE MENTORS Professional trainers often enlist the help of a confident, laid back canine helper. When a timid dog sees the confident helper dog playing, sitting for treats, and enjoying herself, he will often relax and join in on the fun. If your shy dog has a doggie friend she

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SUBTLE SOCIALIZATION Nervous dogs often don’t respond well to the standard socialization techniques that other dogs do. Busy parks, streets or active homes can send them into a panic and make the problem worse.

Instead, be subtle. Have a friend sit quietly in the same room as the dog and randomly drop treats onto the floor. No eye contact or communication; just treats. Over time, this will get your shy dog to associate that person with something good. Once he trusts that person enough to regularly take the treats, continue with the person standing. Then move the venue to another room, or into the yard. Slowly, you’ll relax the dog enough so that the friend can go with you on walks and even take the leash. Repeat this with other friends until your dog has a small cadre of trusty human pals.

GAME TIME! Worried dogs have a hard time enjoying life. To break the worry cycle, teach your dog to play games such as “Fetch” or “Hideand-Seek.” She will relax and simply be a dog for a while. If she has a dog friend, include him or her in the fun. Schedule at least three play sessions each day. If you can, change up the venue, so that eventually she will feel comfortable playing within sight of strangers or unpredictable activity.

Timid dogs have a “worry radius” that is fairly predictable; as long as something or someone stays outside this distance, the dog is usually fine. If you can, try to reduce this distance ever so slowly, over time, while playing games. After several months, you should be able to play games within plain sight of activity. (Keep a leash on her if the area is unfenced.)

TRICK AND TREAT Teaching tricks to your shy dog will help her focus and stay out of “worry” mode. And, they teach her positive cause and effect— if she performs the trick, she gets a treat. It may sound simplistic, but, for a nervous dog, just learning that they can initiate a reliable, predictable interaction can be a great comfort.

Any tricks will work. “Shake,” “Spin,” “Roll over”—whatever you think your dog can master is good.

EXERCISE A tired dog is less apt to worry than one that has pent up energy.

To that end, try to get your dog as much exercise as possible on a daily basis. Go for walks in areas where he’s not apt to panic.

Jog or bike with him. Play fetch or Frisbee—whatever gets him tired will calm him and keep his mind off of worries. (Ever been so ridiculously overtired on a long-haul flight that you didn’t fret the turbulence as you normally would? Same principle. It’s remarkably effective.)

ILLUSTRATION KARA PYLE

knows and trusts, by all means, use that “mentor dog” to help in the training and socialization process. If your timid dog doesn’t like other canines, try including a person she trusts.

DIRECTED WALKS If your shy dog fears other dogs, the normal canine greeting procedure—a nose-to-nose, nose-to tail, play-posturing ritual—should be replaced with a technique called the “directed walk.” Instead of letting the leashed dogs greet, simply walk them briskly, with as much space between each dog as needed to prevent your own shy dog from panicking. Walk them quickly, right at your dog’s “worry radius,” and don’t allow contact. It should be a nononsense, directed walk, as if you are all on a mission. Keeping them moving!

After a few minutes, have each sit about ten to fifteen feet apart, and reward. Then move on, and repeat. Over time (days if need be), reduce the “worry radius” incrementally, but don’t feel obliged to have the dogs greet each other unless it’s completely obvious from their body postures that they want to. The idea is to get your timid dog to think there is something important going on that takes precedent over her fears. This “teaming” drill is a vital tool in conditioning her to like other dogs.

DESENSITIZING By pairing a marvelous experience with a worrisome one, you can slowly desensitize your timid dog to stimuli that cause her worry. For instance, if she fears the sound of a vacuum, try this: record the sound of the vacuum on your cell phone. Then, with the volume set down to barely audible, have her sit then give her a treat while simultaneously playing the audio. If necessary, have a partner operate the audio from a distance while you work with

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your dog. Over a few days, increase the volume while treating.

Also, try playing her favourite games while the audio plays. The trick is to increase the volume slowly, over time, and to never reward the dog when she reacts poorly to the sound. These “counter-conditioning” drills should over time get her to actually look forward to the sounds, because they signal a payday.

SCENT WORK Teaching your timid dog to find scent-rich items hidden around the home is a great way to get her mind off of her troubles and build her confidence. Start off by hiding a treat in plain sight then telling her to “Find-it!” Lead her to it if need be then praise and say “Good Find-it!” As she improves, make them harder to find.

Use different treats and other scent-rich items, such as another dog’s hair, a feather, or even a slip of paper with some lavender oil on it. Success will boost her confidence!

ROUTINE AND TRIGGER REDUCTION Most importantly, reduce the possibility of failure by setting your dog up for success. Maintain a predictable routine for your shy dog and keep the home as free from triggers as possible.

Desensitize very, very slowly, as you gradually expand her pack to include select trusted humans and dogs. Once you realize that you are managing a personality disorder more than curing a bad behaviour, you and your shy dog will make great strides towards minimizing her fears so she can enjoy life. n

DIRECTED WALKS If your shy dog fears other dogs, the normal canine greeting procedure—a nose-to-nose, nose-to tail, play-posturing ritual—should be replaced with a technique called the “directed walk.” Instead of letting the leashed dogs greet, simply walk them briskly, with as much space between each dog as needed to prevent your own shy dog from panicking. Walk them quickly, right at your dog’s “worry radius,” and don’t allow contact. It should be a nononsense, directed walk, as if you are all on a mission. Keeping them moving!

After a few minutes, have each sit about ten to fifteen feet apart, and reward. Then move on, and repeat. Over time (days if need be), reduce the “worry radius” incrementally, but don’t feel obliged to have the dogs greet each other unless it’s completely obvious from their body postures that they want to. The idea is to get your timid dog to think there is something important going on that takes precedent over her fears. This “teaming” drill is a vital tool in conditioning her to like other dogs.

DESENSITIZING By pairing a marvelous experience with a worrisome one, you can slowly desensitize your timid dog to stimuli that cause her worry. For instance, if she fears the sound of a vacuum, try this: record the sound of the vacuum on your cell phone. Then, with the volume set down to barely audible, have her sit then give her a treat while simultaneously playing the audio. If necessary, have a partner operate the audio from a distance while you work with

30 moderndog

SPRING 2016

your dog. Over a few days, increase the volume while treating.

Also, try playing her favourite games while the audio plays. The trick is to increase the volume slowly, over time, and to never reward the dog when she reacts poorly to the sound. These “counter-conditioning” drills should over time get her to actually look forward to the sounds, because they signal a payday.

SCENT WORK Teaching your timid dog to find scent-rich items hidden around the home is a great way to get her mind off of her troubles and build her confidence. Start off by hiding a treat in plain sight then telling her to “Find-it!” Lead her to it if need be then praise and say “Good Find-it!” As she improves, make them harder to find.

Use different treats and other scent-rich items, such as another dog’s hair, a feather, or even a slip of paper with some lavender oil on it. Success will boost her confidence!

ROUTINE AND TRIGGER REDUCTION Most importantly, reduce the possibility of failure by setting your dog up for success. Maintain a predictable routine for your shy dog and keep the home as free from triggers as possible.

Desensitize very, very slowly, as you gradually expand her pack to include select trusted humans and dogs. Once you realize that you are managing a personality disorder more than curing a bad behaviour, you and your shy dog will make great strides towards minimizing her fears so she can enjoy life. n

HOW TO Why STOPis YOUR My Dog DOG Staring FROM At Me? DIGGING Dogs dig digging. Their people? Not so much.

Here’s what to do if you don’t want your dog to dig.

By Nicole WIlde

I

f I had a dollar for every time a training client said they wanted their dog to stop digging, well, you know the rest. Suffice to say it involves yours truly, white sandy beaches and tropical drinks. This is clearly a problem that plagues many a dog lover.

Really, it’s not so much that we want our dogs to stop digging; we just want them to stop digging in inconvenient places, like that lovely bed of roses we worked so hard to grow.

To understand how to fix the problem, it’s important to understand the reasons it might happen in the first place. Some dogs, especially those who are relegated to the back yard for many hours each day, are simply bored. Digging is a way to expend energy. In those cases, more exercise, mental stimulation through

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training and puzzle toys, and leaving the dog with something like a stuffed Kong to work on can help. But if the excavations are focused around the perimeter of the yard, the digging may be an escape attempt. Strengthening the fencing, along with blocking the overly stimulating view to the outside, might be in order.

Here’s the tough part: digging is an instinctive canine behaviour, and innate behaviours can be difficult to extinguish. Sure, you could use a punishment-based method where something surprises, sprays, or shocks the dog each time he approaches his favourite digging area, but do you really want to do that to your dog?

Besides, punishment has fallout. I’ve seen more than a few dogs who have received shocks for approaching flower beds and are then afraid to be in the backyard at all. Other forms of punishment may be milder, but what are you going to do—set up booby traps all around the yard? Punishment isn’t advisable nor is it feasible.

Instead, let’s take a cooperative approach that allows dogs to

PHOTO XXXXXXXXXX

, e m e s u c Ex xtremely but I'msey here. bu

exercise their natural instincts, but in a way that’s acceptable to us. It involves creating a Dig Pit. Even the most fastidious owner normally has some small space in the yard, typically a far corner, that they wouldn’t mind donating to the cause. Find a spot that is acceptable to you that has some beautiful, dig-able dirt. Now, you can’t very well drag your dog over to it and explain that these are the new digs for digging; you’ve got to give him some motivation to focus his excavations there. Not only that, but you’ve got to be sneaky about it. While your dog is indoors, take a marrow bone, bully stick, or whatever type of yummy treat he loves and bury it in that spot. Bury a few cookies in the pit as well for good measure, making sure to spread them around. Re-cover it all so the goodies are buried somewhat deeply. The dirt you’ve loosened will be a siren song to your dog. Chances are he’ll head right for the area, and when he digs there he’ll be rewarded with all sorts of delightful treats. Repetition will strengthen the association between digging in that spot and tasty rewards, which will increase the chances that he’ll want to dig there again.

The only reasons I’ve ever come across for a dig pit not to work is when there is something else in the yard, such as underground critters, and those critters are of higher value to the dog than any treats that could possibly be offered. In those cases, ridding the yard of the critters will help. But for most dogs, taking a “don’t fight ‘em, join ‘em” approach by setting up and then routinely refilling the dig pit with fresh dirt and periodic buried “treasure” is much easier—and ultimately successful—than punishing the behaviour, and much more pleasant for everyone involved. Can ya dig it? n

Nicole Wilde is an award-winning author of ten books on canine behaviour. Her books, seminar DVDs, and Wilde About Dog blog can be found at nicolewilde.com.

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They take their dog to work

Dakota Fanning spotted with a dog in her purse, filming scenes for the movie Please Stand By in LA.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: © PACIFICCOASTNEWS; BRUJA © PACIFICCOASTNEWS;

Kylie Jenner seen leaving Dash Radio Studio with her Italian Greyhound Norman in LA.

! s r a St ’re just

They us! like

They like each other's style

They shop together Cara Delevingne and her new dog Leo spotted shopping at the guitar legend store in Paris.

34 moderndog

New father Josh Hartnett looks geek chic in glasses and a beanie as he takes a break from "human" parenting duties to walk his dog, Pit Bull/ Border Collie Cross, Iggy, in London.

SPRING 2016

© RALPH, PACIFICCOASTNEWS; MIGUEL AGUILAR, © PACIFICCOASTNEWS

They share the same feelings

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eat

Make a Birthday Cake for your Dog! WHAT YOU'LL NEED • 2 bananas

TOPPINGS FOR ONE CAKE

• 2 Tbsp canola oil

• 1 Tbsp cream cheese

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1 Tbsp peanut butter

• 3 Tbsp natural yogurt

• carob chips* (optional)

• 1 Tbsp honey

• mini dog treats (optional)

• 1 ¾ cups wholewheat flour

*Carob is safe for dogs; chocolate is not. Never give your dog chocolate or chocolate chips; chocolate is poisonous to dogs!

• 1 tsp baking soda Makes six muffin-size cakes

We all love a cake on our birthday, so why not indulge your dog with a little treat on hers?

Banana and honey cakes (baked individually so your dog doesn’t over-do it and can share with her canine friends) are a delectable treat when topped with delicious cream cheese and peanut butter frosting. Go to town with sprinkled carob chips to make your dog’s day extra special.

By Rachel Blondel

DOGGIE BIRTHDAY CAKE 1.

Preheat oven to 350° (180° C).

2. Mash the bananas and mix together with the oil, egg, yogurt, and honey in a large bowl until everything is well combined.

3. Stir in the flour and baking soda, then spoon the batter into a six-cup muffin tin and bake for 15 minutes. Allow to cool.

4. Beat the cream cheese and peanut butter together and then swirl, pipe, or spoon the frosting onto the top of the muffin.

5.

Adorn with carob chips or a mini dog treat or two and wish your dog a very happy birthday!

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PHOTO KATE WHITAKER

D.I.Y.

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A Veterinarian Clinic’s Thoughts On Pet Insurance Wondering whether pet insurance is worth the expense?

Hi Dr. Spoon er Here’s a veterinarian clinic’s Hi Dr. Archeck!! take on the subject By the team at Yaletown Pet Hospital, aka the vets that take care of the Modern Dog office dogs

Esther!

R

egardless of your income or financial situation, if you're like most people, you’re likely not setting aside the funds to provide veterinary medical care for your dog in the event of illness or an emergency. Even if you do, sometimes the money gets used for other expenses such as a child's college fund, home improvements, vacations, vehicle purchases and repairs.

Pet insurance is designed to help you deal with unexpected costs (and sometimes the preventive costs too) of that care, providing pet owners with financial support that can be used towards professional veterinary care and related medical costs.

Professional Care Today, veterinary care, like human healthcare, continues to advance. Veterinarians can treat virtually any condition or injury that a dog may incur in his lifetime, as long as the required treatment is provided early and quickly enough—and as long as the pet owner has the financial means to cover the cost of care.

Pet health insurance is a useful financial tool that: • Protects you and your finances against unexpected medical costs.

• Ensures veterinarians can provide your pet with optimal care and the most advanced veterinary medical treatments.

• Prevents pet owners from having to make a financial decision to end a pet's life due to their inability to pay for the needed treatments.

• Ensures a pet owner does not need to hesitate before taking a pet for veterinary treatment or wait until a condition worsens before feeling it's worth the expense to visit their vet.

• Can cover the costs of routine and even preventive care if you can choose that kind of coverage.

• Assists you in helping your pet to live a healthier and sometimes longer life.

Understanding Coverage With other kinds of insurance—home, auto—years may pass without you ever having to make a claim. Pet insurance, however, is designed to be used. Experience has shown that it is likely that your pet will become ill or injured and need medical care, as they age these risks only increase.

The earlier the better If you're fortunate enough to have a healthy dog and you rarely need to claim, it doesn't necessarily mean you don't need coverage. Research has shown that up to 90 percent of veterinary

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expenses can happen in the last 10 percent of your pet's life.

As with human health insurance, the earlier (and younger) you enroll your pet for coverage, the lower your premiums and deductibles will be, and the more likely it is that your pet will not have any pre-existing conditions that will be excluded from coverage.

The cost of coverage for all pets is decided the same way. There are three factors to consider: 1. The species/breed of your pet 2. His or her age at the time of enrolment 3. Where you live These three factors help underwrite (calculate the cost and risks) of insuring your dog.

Get your money's worth As with many things in life, with pet insurance, you get what you pay for. Paying a higher premium affords you a higher level of coverage (and higher payouts or “benefits”).

Knowing What To Expect When you look for coverage, make sure that you know exactly what your pet is covered for—and what exclusions apply.

• Carefully consider what level of coverage you think you might require for your pet and what you can afford.

• Some pet insurance companies offer variable deductibles that will decrease or increase premiums.

• All pet insurance companies should post their coverage features on their website or have them available by mail.

• Once you've made your decision and signed up for a policy, familiarize yourself with what's included by reading through the terms and conditions. Some insurance companies now offer coverage for services such as alternative treatments or travel.

If you're thinking about getting pet insurance, you've already taken the right step in taking good care of your pet. Research your options, talk to your veterinary clinic staff, and arm yourself with the information you need to make the right choice. Although most pet insurance companies do not participate in direct billing yet, most vet clinics will help you process your claims so you can receive your reimbursement.

Why risk putting yourself in the painful position of weighing financial costs versus providing the best care for your dog? n

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Why Dogs Like Some People...

But Not Others

Ever wonder why your dog gravitates towards some of your friends and not others?

Research has shown that dogs are continually monitoring the social interactions their owners have with other people—and using this information to form opinions.

By Stanley Coren

“W

ilson doesn't like my mother-in-law and I don't know why.” The woman speaking was the wife of one of my colleagues at the university, and the Wilson she was referring to was her Golden Retriever. I was surprised since Wilson, like most Golden Retrievers, is a kissy-faced dog who likes to make friends and socialize, so I encouraged her to tell me more about the situation.

“My mother-in-law, Janet, is visiting for a few weeks,” she continued. “Although she is friendly enough, she makes no effort to be helpful. For example, we have this little area rug in front of the sofa and one edge of it got bunched up. That meant that one end of the sofa had to be lifted while the rug was tugged straight so that no one would trip on it.

I was struggling to do that and asked Janet if she would give the rug a tug while I lifted the edge of the sofa. She pretended not to hear me and walked away, which is typical of her uncooperative behaviour. Wilson has been actively ignoring her and yesterday when Janet offered him a treat he refused to take it. Wilson usually only refuses treats if he is sick or really doesn't like the person offering it. I try to act nicely around her because she is my husband’s mom, so I don't think that I am telegraphing negative emotions Wilson could pick up on. Nevertheless he still doesn't like her.”

It turns out that this situation is not all that unusual. Research has shown that dogs are continually monitoring the social interactions their owners have with other people—and using this information to form opinions. Put simply, if someone slights you or acts in an unhelpful or unfriendly way, your dog may very well react by snubbing or avoiding that person in future interactions. This is the same as young human children behave in similar situations, as demonstrated by a study conducted by a team of researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology. In their investigation, three-year-old children watched an actor behave in an unfriendly way toward a person (for example tearing up a drawing that the other individual had made). Later, when that unfriendly person needed a ball to complete a game, the children were less likely to give it to him, instead preferring to give it to a person who had acted in a friendly or neutral way. Now, a new study from a team of researchers at Kyoto University in Japan looked at whether dogs moderndogmagazine.com

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I know you love me but I can tell you're selfish.

would react in a similar manner.

The process of watching individuals interact with each other is often referred to as “social eavesdropping.” People use it because it is a very useful means of gathering information about how others are likely to react without any real risk to the observer. This is helpful because it allows a person to “tune” their behavioural responses. The Japanese research team found that dogs eagerly watch people all of the time and use the information they gather to pick out which people are selfish and which are more generous. Later, when dogs are given an opportunity to beg for food, they use that information to decide who to approach, showing a clear preference for the more generous people. It was not clear to Fujita, however, as to whether the dogs were watching the people for their own immediate benefit (such as a signal that they might be able to get a treat from someone) or whether they were trying to figure out what was happening in order to form a general opinion about the nature and personality of the people involved.

In their most recent study, the investigators avoided any complications associated with food by creating a social interaction that focused on an item that is useless to dogs (a roll of vinyl tape in a clear container). In total, 54 dogs and their owners participated in the experiment, involving a set of rehearsed scenarios in which the dogs got to watch while their owners tried unsuccessfully to open a container holding the tape. In one set-up the dog's owner requested the assistance of an actor who complied by helping to open the container. In another set-up the actor refused to help by turning away. The final condition was a neutral one in which the owner did not ask for help.

The important thing going on here is that the dogs are watching a person being helpful or unhelpful to their owners in a situation that seems to have no rewards or benefits for the dog (since most dogs really have little use for vinyl tape). Nonetheless, the dogs’ observations affected their behaviour: after the scenario played out, both the actor and a neutral bystander simultaneously offered treats to the dog. The researchers then measured which

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person the dogs seemed to prefer or avoid.

Results indicated that it was only after the dogs observed a person being unhelpful or uncooperative that their behaviours changed; the dogs avoided the offer of a treat from the unhelpful person and preferred the treat from the neutral person. However, they chose treats at an equal rate from both the helpful actor and the neutral bystander, showing no preference for the helpful actor.

Fujita speculated about this unexpected aspect of his findings, noting it makes sense that the dogs avoided people who behaved negatively to their owner, but that one might also expect the dogs to prefer people who helped their owners over those who were neutral. The data, however, shows that they did not. Fujita attempted to explain this perplexing finding by suggesting that helping might be the standard expectation dogs have in social interactions. If this is the case then being helpful is what is considered “normal” by dogs and therefore helpful behaviour is nothing special. It is only when someone violates this standard of “doggie morality” that the dogs form a negative impression of that individual.

Interestingly, this very same thing is seen in human two- to three-year-old child. If you remember, the study referred to at the beginning of this article found that human children refused to help someone they saw acting in a nasty and uncooperative manner. However, there was another important finding in that study, namely that the children treated someone who acted helpfully the same way that they treated someone who acted in a neutral manner—just like the dogs.

At a philosophical level, this similarity set me to thinking. It seems that both dogs and young children start out by believing that the world and the people who live in it are basically good, cooperative, and helpful. It is only when these expectations aren’t met that they change their attitudes toward specific people. This seems to me a pretty wonderful default attitude and one we would all do well to try to live up to. n

e l l e s i G Belle Sammy t e l o Vi

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J essie Geneva

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The Science of Choosing a Dog’s Name

By Yvonne Zacharias Photographed by Tanya King

Y

ou have just picked up your impossibly gorgeous, fall-to-pieces lovable, rambunctious, rollicking, licking, begging, bundle of fur that will soon become your best friend.

Now comes the big question. What to name your new pup? With the slightest prompting, dog people will happily stop during their walks to expound effusively on the reasons for their dog's name. Sometimes it has to do with their dog's personality. Sometimes it has to do with the dog's provenance, either geographically or biologically, and sometimes it has to do with nothing other than a whim, a crazy flight of fancy or a lightning bolt out of the blue.

Choosing a name can set off howls of protest and sizzling debates within families. But before the choice of name sparks a duel, consider this: Alexandra Horowitz, a canine researcher and dog cognition expert who teaches psychology, canine cognition, and creative non-fiction at Columbia University (Horowitz is also

the author of the excellent New York Times bestseller Inside Of A Dog: What Dog, See, Smell, and Know), notes, “For the dog, it is less about the name per se than about the way the name is said.” Yes, even the importance of your new dog's name is subject to debate.

As dogs can't talk, we can't know whether the name is more important to the human or the dog. Regardless, there is no way around it: the new canine addition to the family will need a name.

In the case of the five-year-old male St. Bernard my son and I share, the name Charlie, bestowed by a previous owner, stuck.

With his pleading eyes, easygoing and affectionate (if slightly sloppy and unsophisticated) ways, he simply is a Charlie. No other name was possible, although depending on mood—his or ours—we sometimes come up with variants like King Charles, Chuck, and, my favourite, Charlie Bear, given that he falls somewhere between a miniature pony and a giant teddy bear.

until 5•31•16 at

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be true for Coren, in addition to their specific names, you may want to come up with a common, generic name so they all come when you want to call all of them. In Coren's case, that group name is “puppy.” He knows of an owner with miniature female Poodles who calls them “ladies” and of a retired army major who calls his dogs “troops.”

But like any dog owner, Coren happily deviates from arcane scientific talk to discuss the personal naming of his dogs. His wife named the latest addition to the household pet stable “Ripley,” complying with Coren's requirement that it be a two-syllable name preferably starting with “R” which is distinctive from the “D” sound at the start of his other two dogs' names. Why Ripley? He was named after the famous Ripley's Believe It or Not! collection. Coren's wife simply couldn't believe she was allowing her husband to get a third dog.

Horowitz said when she is asked for advice on naming a dog, she has to admit there is no hard science behind her recommendation.

“That said, I advise that it be an easy-to-pronounce name that you don't mind saying over and over again,” she wrote, pointing out that a name is only useful if it is said out loud.

“It should be distinguishable from the other words that the dog might overhear.” For example, “a dog named 'doggie' is not likely to get clear signals about when he is being talked to.”

Horowitz's basic rule of thumb is to avoid any name that you don't want to say out loud. And whatever you do, “don't name your dog 'dog.' They deserve better than that.”

Additionally, I would suggest there are some circumstances where names are to be avoided at all cost. If you own a breed of dog that has a reputation for aggressive behaviour, steer clear of a name like Killer. That would only serve to strike added terror into those already wary of your dog’s breed.

To complicate matters, there is a distinction between a purebred dog's official kennel pedigree name, which can be outrageously formal or pompous, and his “call” name, the one used by

Two-syllable names are better than one because they allow for inflection, making it easier to convey emotion.

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PHOTO TANYA KING

However, those who have studied canine behaviour in a much more scientific way than either my son or I offer a few do’s and don’ts.

For starters, Stanley Coren, a professor emeritus of psychology at the University of British Columbia, author of several books on canine behavior, and a well-known expert on the topic (not to mention regular Modern Dog contributor), said two-syllable names are better than one because they allow for inflection, making it easier to convey emotion.

You can't do much with the name Rex, for example. It is very halting. With the name Ripley, however, the “Rip” can be on a high note, and the “ley” can slide, conveying affection. Reverse the emphasis and you can indicate displeasure.

Horowitz seconds this idea: “I like two (or more) syllable names that can be spoken either ascending (rising in pitch) or descending to convey differences in urgency.”

Coren advises against using people names for dogs (Sorry, Charlie!) because they can engender confusion in a group setting.

Call your dog Freddie and the human version is apt to magically appear at your side. Add to that the fact that some humans take offence to sharing a name with a dog (although there is plenty of evidence that humans have nothing on their four-footed friends when it comes to loyalty and keen instincts) and you have a recipe for social awkwardness.

Coren also cautions against picking a funny name like Doodles.

It can seem incredibly witty at first but the joke soon wears off.

Then you are stuck with it.

And God knows what you will get if you let the kids name the dog. Darth Vader? Or perhaps the moniker of a fleetingly popular cartoon character? You might want to put a “subject to approval” clause on their choice.

Coren advises changing a dog's name when the dog is overcoming some behaviour problems or moving from a difficult home. “You want nothing from that past to be part of the dog's life anymore. That includes the name.”

If there are a number of dogs in the house, which happens to

Coren advises changing an adopted dog's name when the dog is overcoming some behaviour problems or moving from a difficult home: “You want nothing from that past to be part of the dog's life anymore. That includes the name.�

the dog’s family to get his attention.

The registered kennel club name is sometimes prefaced with the name of the breeder's kennel name, which in highly respected breeder Richard Paquette's case is Wenrick. So his dogs are registered with names like Wenrick's Miss Molly or Wenrick's Rainbow.

There is often an association between the kennel club name and the call name. For practical purposes, Wenrick's The Impeccable Miss Molly is apt to be shortened to Molly. But sometimes registered kennel names are best shed entirely when adopting call names. You would hardly want to be at the dog beach shouting out Wenrick's Simply Justified or Excalipur Braveheart when you want your dog to come.

Just as popular children's names come and go, so do dogs' names.

With the charisma of Canada's newly elected Prime Minister

(featured in Vogue, no less), you might begin to find a lot of dogs named Justin, or some variant thereof, just as the 1980s saw an uptick in dogs named Diana after the popular princess.

Just about everywhere Coren looked, he found plenty of male dogs named Max, Jake, and Buddy. The same held true for the female names of Molly, Bella, and Maggie. As it turns out, Charlie is number six on Coren's list of most popular dogs' names.

So although we broke a few rules by adopting a human name and by failing to change his name after we rescued him from questionable circumstances, maybe we didn't do so badly after all. All those dog owners can't be wrong, can they?

Besides, with his drooping eyes, shaggy fur, and cuddly ways, we could never saddle him with a registered kennel name like Endeavor Bartholomew. And he's simply not a Winston or a Zeus or a Bentley. He is Charlie, pure and simple, a perfect name for the best dog on earth. n

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BREEDS

KNOW YOUR DOGS In circle with above: Great breed for allergy sufferers!

Get to know these two newly recognized breeds Joining the ranks officially recognized by the American Kennel Club are these two unique breeds...

The American Hairless Terrier Energetic, alert, curious, and intelligent, the American Hairless Terrier is a small to medium-sized, active terrier. Ancestors of the breed were bred to hunt rats and other vermin, and today the breed excels in many dog sports. The breed comes in both a hairless and coated variety, although the coated dogs still carry the hairless gene. The American Hairless Terrier is well known for causing fewer allergic reactions than other breeds, allowing many allergy sufferers to welcome them into their homes.

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PHOTOS ŠAKC

BREED GREAT Y LLERG FOR A RERS! SUFFE

The Sloughi The Sloughi is a medium-sized, smooth-coated, athletic sighthound. An ancient breed, it is treasured in North Africa for its hunting skills, speed, agility, and endurance over long distances. The breed is noble and somewhat reserved, with a gentle, melancholy expression. Sloughis must be exercised on leash or in a large fenced area since they will run after anything that catches their fancy.

The Sloughi’s smooth coat requires a weekly brushing.

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Saying Goodbye When is it "time?" Facing difficult end-of-life decisions with acceptance and grace

By Renée Fleming

PHOTO ILLONA HAUS OF SCRUFFY DOG PHOTOGRAPHY

Photographed by Illona Haus

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W

hen people find out I’m a veterinarian, some eagerly tell me that they shared my career dream but what held them back was the thought of seeing animals suffer or having to put them to sleep. I’ll admit that when I think back to the day that I held my acceptance letter from the Ontario Veterinary College in my hands, those things were almost the furthest from my mind. I envisioned examining and vaccinating new puppies and kittens, imagined exciting and challenging surgeries, looked forward to watching my patients grow and thrive. Please don’t think that I was naive to the demands of my profession. Having both volunteered and worked in a veterinary clinic prior to my OVC admission, I knew the challenges that would lie ahead. I knew euthanasia was something I’d have to do, and I assumed (perhaps here comes the naivety) that I would be taught to know when and how to do so with compassion and professionalism.

Fast-forward 12 years...

Resting at my feet is my ever-faithful English Bulldog, Emma. Princess Emma, as I like to call her. “E” to my husband. “Emmie-Bear” to my sister. My son’s first word was Emma, although I pretended to hear Mama. It sounds so similar after all. As you read this, imagine me writing this story with Emma’s rhythmic snore in the background. My friends can’t believe we can sleep through that sound, but to me (and even to my husband, though he won’t admit it), the snoring is soothing and reassuring.

I remember the day we brought her home. I was in my first year of veterinary school and, in the midst of my finals, my husband John and I had to find a new place to live as our landlord would not allow us to have a dog in our small basement rental. Our parents thought we were crazy, and maybe we were but we quickly found a new place to live and welcomed our beautiful, wrinkly, snorting (and sometimes stinky!) Bulldog into our home and hearts.

After surviving the challenges of puppyhood, it’s amazing how soon your forget it all. I’ve almost forgotten about the beautiful pair of boots that she destroyed, the remote control she chewed (after an urgent trip to the after-hours Emergency, we thankfully discovered the batteries had not been consumed along with it!), the many bottles of carpet cleaner we went through… all worth it in the end.

As they say, the years go by quickly. At her eighth birthday, we began discussing how lucky we were that she remained in good health. In case you are not aware, English Bulldogs are not known for their health and longevity—the average lifespan is eight to ten years. By then, Emma was already showing signs of arthritis and was taking a nutritional supplement as well as an anti-inflammatory to help her mobility. By ten years of age, she was taking an additional two pain medications, and we lowered our bed so that she could have an easier time getting in and out. At age 11, she found herself not only dealing with a new puppy (a wiggly and neurotic French Bulldog named Oliver Frances), but being awoken from her slumber by a crying and demanding newborn baby.

When I was feeding my son, Emma would sit at my feet in the nursery while I rocked him back to sleep. She took these changes in stride and has learned to tolerate (if not love) her new housemates. The dog who used to avoid children at all cost will now toddle over to lick my son on the face or see if the object he is holding in his hand might just be a tasty treat. moderndogmagazine.com

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PHOTOS ILLONA HAUS OF SCRUFFY DOG PHOTOGRAPHY

More recently, I lost my dad to cancer. I was fortunate to have been able to be the care provider for my dad during his palliative stage, and he passed away in my arms while Emma snored away on the floor below. My dad, like many cancer patients, suffered greatly in the weeks to months prior to his death. Looking back to when I brought Emma to meet mom and dad for the first time—my wrinkly, wiggly bundle of joy—I never dreamt that I’d say goodbye to my dad before her. But from this experience, I’ve recognized something that brings me comfort when I think about saying goodbye to my Emma: the knowledge that I can give her a beautiful and peaceful gift when her time comes. I can let her go in peace, surrounded by those who love her, instead of watching her deteriorate and even suffer. I tried my very best to make my dad comfortable—I diligently gave him pain injections, wiped his face, wet his dry mouth—but I know he suffered. I don’t want Emma to suffer like that.

Emma’s comfort and happiness is what my husband and I wish most for her. As a veterinarian, I try to educate my clients so that they can also make informed decisions as to their pets’ wellbeing. Having to coach a family about making the decision to euthanize is hard—harder than the euthanasia itself. Everyone has different beliefs; euthanasia is not accepted in all faiths and many people have a very difficult ethical struggle about end of life. I can’t speak for what is right and wrong for everyone, only for what I believe and practice in my daily life. I don’t judge my clients (or anyone else) as they make their journey through this emotional process. Sometimes the decision is easy, such as when a patient has refractory disease or illness, and often the more visible problems (for example, a large tumor on a leg of a dog, or a cat in renal failure struggling to eat and maintain weight and hydration) make it easier. The hardest is when the decision is a

bit of an ‘unknown,’ which is often the case with a senior pet that is declining but may not be ‘sick.’

Thus is the case in question, my Emma. At 12 (almost 12 and a half now), her hearing is going, she sleeps more than she ever did (which is a lot for a Bulldog!), and, most notably, she has difficulty with arthritis. She limps every day—despite her medications and treatments. And as a veterinarian, I know that she limps because something hurts. For Emma, the sore spots are her hips and elbows. My husband and I carry her up and down stairs and help her into bed at night. We keep a diligent watch on our son so that he doesn’t accidentally grab her near any of her sore spots. My husband jokes that it takes more time to make her dinner than ours—we faithfully mix in two joint supplements and four different types of pain medications twice daily. She has received laser therapy, acupuncture, and even stem cell therapy.

If a cart would help her she’d have one, but unfortunately her arthritis is widespread and a cart or brace would not solve her discomfort.

Initially, neither John nor I wanted to say the word euthanasia. But it’s inevitable. It’s coming. And I have shed a lot of tears thinking about it. But her time hasn’t come yet. She still greets us at the door (not every time, but some of the time). She still loves a good bum scratch. She loves her Kongs and Timbits. She loves to stretch out on the grass in the sunshine. She occasionally loves her little fur brother Oliver and will still initiate play with him. She gets very excited to see my mom when she visits. She still puts other dogs in their place. She seems to have some affection for my son, which is saying a lot for a dog that was never properly socialized with children. It is these types of things that give her happiness. She hasn’t been able to jog around the block for years but that’s ok for a dog like Emma. It is these types of behaviours and habits that I suggest pet owners watch for. Any absence of or change in normal behaviours that indicate your

dog is happy and comfortable will help you to decide when that time is approaching. If Emma ever refuses a Kong, I believe our decision is made for us.

As I’m sure you can imagine Emma has helped me in more ways than I can count during my life and career. In a way she is my muse. It is through learning how to keep her as comfortable and healthy as possible that I have discovered my passion for analgesia (pain control) for pets. I’m currently working towards my CVPP designation— Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner. Emma has enriched my life, both professionally and personally. She has been the best companion and I absolutely adore her. When her time comes we will miss her terribly and I often tell my little Frenchie that he has big paws to fill.

As I finish writing this, Emma is still at my feet (although she’s now happily chomping away on a cheese-stuffed Kong).

It’s not her time today and hopefully not tomorrow or next week. John and I notice her really good days and take note of her not so good ones. I spent a fantastic day this past winter with her and a very talented local photographer, Ilona from Scruffy Dog Photography, for what Ilona calls an “honour session.” We captured Emma’s personality and “adore-abullness” and I had a blast hiking with Emma along the trails. I carried her when she needed it, and gave her extra pain medication to help her through her adventurous trek. I’ve been sneaking her some extra Kongs, a few more Timbits (much to Dr. Flemings' colleauge, Dr. Rob Butler's dismay), and doing my best to let her know that she is the most wonderful companion that we could ever have been lucky enough to share our lives with. And when her time comes, I will be the one who helps her find the rainbow bridge, because I owe her that much for all that she has given to me. n

A professional photo shoot is a lovely way to honour your older dog. Waterloo, Ontario-based photographer Illona Haus (her photos seen on the previous pages of this article) offers Honour Sessions, photo shoots especially for animals near the ending of their life. It's a wonderful experience and a lasting tribute to a loved dog.

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Add some style to your dog's al fresco slumber with an Outdoor Bed from P.L.A.Y. These washable, waterproof dog beds are sure to please your pup! $75, petplay.com

{Editor’s Pick} We love these gorgeous, hand-dyed ombré rope collars! Not only are they beautiful (check out the array of lovely colours), they’re made using traditional nautical techniques, making them extra-durable! $33, forevermootsy.com

GET OUTSIDE! Fun finds to make the most of the season Give your pup a treat he can really sink his teeth into! The Chicken Jerky Crunch Sticks from Kona’s Chips are single ingredient, preservative-free treats that will have your dog chewing, crunching, and smiling for hours. $22, konaschips.com

Yum! Trail snacks!

Spring showers? Muddy dog parks? No problem! Made of high-performance outdoor fabric, the Hurtta Torrent coat protects your dog from rain and wind. Adjustable collar, belt, and reflective trim mean excellent design and fit! $75, hurtta.com

Road trip!

What could be cooler than a dog collar included in the MTV Award Show goodies bag? Bond Pet Products’ Collars are waterproof, odour-resistant, easy to clean, and look great— perfect for the upcoming spring/summer season!

No wonder they were the obvious choice for all those celebrity pooches! From $16, bondpet.com

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Keep your car clean and claw-mark free with a superbly designed Cargo Liner from 4Knines. These heavy duty, easy to clean, durable covers (lifetime warranty!) install in seconds and are made of padded, quilted material to provide your pooch extra comfort and protection. Their innovative bumper flap even protects your vehicle during loading and unloading! $70, 4knines.com

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TRAINING

Attention-Seeking Behaviours What They Look Like & How to Address Them

By Pooja Menon

L

et’s assess this situation. You recently rescued an adorable Lab mix from your local shelter. You decide to call him Spud. Spud is goofy, energetic, and lovable. People stop you on the street to comment on how ruggedly handsome he is.

You soak it all in, feeling fabulous when you tell them Spud is a rescue dog.

The first few days pass in a blur of “getting to know Spud,” and then reality sets in. As much as you’d like to spend every waking minute with him, there are errands to run, a social life to attend to, and a career to get back to.

Spud goes from seeing you every minute of every day to catching sporadic glimpses of you throughout the day. He begins

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to bark incessantly, jumps on you for attention, and chews on expensive, sometimes irreplaceable, things. Your frustration mounts, and where at first spending time with Spud was a joy, it now makes your stomach twist in knots. You begin to wonder what you’ve gotten yourself into and, chances are, you’re even contemplating finding Spud a new home.

Hold up. Take a breath, and step away from any rash decisions.

Sometimes all it takes to fix a problem is to determine the root cause of a dog’s anxious behaviour. We’re here to help you do that. We’ve compiled a list of the three most common attentionseeking behaviours dogs exhibit, along with ways to combat them.

Jumping Up Reasons dogs jump: To greet you, to show excitement, to issue a challenge, or because this behaviour was “rewarded” in the past.

What NOT to do Don't punish your dog by yelling at him, kneeing him in the chest, squirting him with water, or yanking on his collar. These responses still constitute a reward—he sought and got your attention (negative attention is still attention) and do not fix the problem.

How to fix it: • Ignore him when he jumps on you. A simple way to do this is by turning your back on him. Acknowledge him only when he has all four paws on the ground, in a stand or sit position. Reward him instantly with affection or a high value treat.

• Keep your voice low to keep him calm, and make sure to offer the treat at his level so he can take it easily.

• Be consistent. Soon your dog will understand that sitting or waiting patiently gets him what he wants: your attention.

• Encourage friends and family to practice doing the same. If this proves difficult, tether your dog to the sofa. Your guests can interact with him when he has all paws on the ground, and move away when he attempts to jump on them.

Barking Reasons Dogs Bark: To communicate, to alert you to strangers, to express boredom, stress or fear, or because he has learnt that barking gets him what he wants.

What NOT to do: Respond to his demands (e.g.: picking up the toy he’s dropped at your feet and throwing it), yelling at him to be quiet without giving him something else to focus on, or punishing him.

How to fix it: • Pay attention to your dog’s body language when barking. Each bark expresses a different need or want. Identifying what is causing your dog to bark can help you decide how best to respond.

• Demand barking: If your dog barks at you, ignore him until he becomes quiet and then reward him instantly with praise, treats, and affection. Make sure to repeat this until he “gets” the message that barking does not get him your attention; being calm does.

• Alert barking: If your dog barks to alert you of a passing stranger or someone at the door, training him to “be quiet” comes moderndogmagazine.com

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Destructive Chewing

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Buddy and Lady submitted by April Wesson

How to fix it: • A tired dog is a happy dog. Provide your dog with exercise and enrichment. He will be more likely to rest up once he’s expended his energy.

• Limit his access to valuable items and provide him with things he can chew, like tasty Kongs, chew toys, or Nylabones.

“Momma!!!!

• Praise him when he in handy. Allow your dog The whole toilet engages in good behaviour to bark a couple times, paper roll exploded!” and redirect him when you then approach him and catch him “in the act.” This command him firmly to can be as simple as prompt“be quiet.” Prompt him to ing him to drop the remote silence by feeding him a in exchange for a rope toy, and steady stream of treats such as praising him when he takes it. Never grab the remote from him chicken or hot dogs. Repeat this as many times as needed until without giving him alternate options. Your dog will learn that he gets the meaning of “quiet.” The next step is to increase every time he approaches you with his find, it gets taken away, the time between commanding him to “be quiet” and treating and this can lead him to hoard his finds in a place away from him. Start with two seconds, then five, ten, and so on. You can your supervision. alternate his rewards (between treats, try affection or a quick • Another common mistake pup parents make is to be inconsisgame of throw) once he’s well-versed with what you’re asking tent. You might think it is adorable to give Spud a toilet roll or of him. scrap piece of paper to tear into because it is cute to watch, but • Stress barking: If your dog barks and lunges at people or dogs when Spud gets his paws on your kid’s homework or an item when out, distract him by putting distance between him and he’s not supposed to rip up, he’s not going to know the differthe object of his reactivity. This might mean switching routes ence. In Spud’s mind, he’s been rewarded for tearing up things or crossing the street and keeping at least ten feet between him in the past and therefore it must be allowed. It is important and the object/person. Then distract him with special treats to teach Spud that human items are a no-go zone but not to like chicken or cheese. A riled up dog is not likely to notice the worry, there are plenty of fun dog items he can go crazy with! treats you put in front of him, so it’s best to remove him from • Separation anxiety can manifest in many ways, including the situation and then treat him when calm. destruction of property. Practice leaving your dog for short Special Note: There are many ways to manage a dog’s barking. absences and build up to longer periods of time. Ensure that he If a particular method isn’t working, try different methods to find is getting plenty of exercise before you leave him, and provide one that fits or enlist the help of a professional trainer. him with food-stuffed Kongs or puzzle toys to get busy with in your absence.

There are many behaviours dogs exhibit that can be flabbergasting to us. Most of them, however, can be fixed with patience, Reasons dogs engage in destructive chewing: consistency, effort, and understanding. It is important to rememExcess energy, as part of normal play, or as a result of boredom or ber that shelter dogs sometimes come with no previous training separation anxiety. or structure or may have never received affection from humans.

What NOT to do: Never punish your dog. Unless you’re able to Throwing in the towel is easy to do, but investing the necessary catch him in the act and redirect him, your dog will not undertime into training your dog will provide you with a lifelong best stand why you’re angry. friend and partner. It’s well worth the effort if you ask us. n

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photo jane zippilli

Greg Mahle comforts a little passenger on one his bi-monthly 4,200 mile Rescue Road Trips.

Rescue Road One man, thirty thousand dogs, and a million miles on the last hope highway

By Peter Zheutlin

A

s Greg Mahle, unshaven and road weary, pulls his 12-wheeled rig into a parking lot in Putnam, Connecticut on a sunny Saturday afternoon, he peers through the grime of nearly 3,500 miles that has collected on his windshield since we left his home in Zanesville, Ohio five days ago. In front of us are a couple of dozen people, many of them children, clapping and waving signs of welcome. It’s a scene Mahle has witnessed here almost every other Saturday for the past ten years.

His cargo? Approximately eighty lucky rescue dogs—dogs once lost, abandoned, neglected, or abused; many just hours away from being put to death in high-kill shelters in southern states.

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Over the past five days Mahle, whose not-for-profit operation is called Rescue Road Trips, has driven from Ohio to Texas and along the Gulf Coast picking up dogs saved by various rescue organizations. The people waiting? “Forever” families ready to welcome their new loves into their home. This day, when dogs and their new families are united, is known as “Gotcha Day.” In a moment, Mahle will leap from the cab of the truck and announce in a booming, cheerful voice, “Hi everybody! I’m Greg! Are you excited? I know you’ve been waiting for these guys for a while, but they’ve been waiting their whole lives for this moment!”

photo denise trapani

But before he does, Mahle haunt them. sighs gently and turns to me.

Mahle’s trips begin on Mondays “You know, a few days ago these and by Tuesday night he’s in Texas, dogs were all going to die. Now, the ready to begin picking up dogs the doors will open, the light will pour in, next morning. and each one will be delivered into the On a Wednesday morning in May, arms of a loving family. This is heaven.”

Mahle and I and his other driver I first learned of Greg Mahle in 2012 “Tommy” started picking up dogs at when, after a twenty year “discussion” designated meeting places. (“Tommy” Jane Dewey meets her new dog Cohen, with my wife and children, I finally prefers that I not use his real name.) now named Louis, on Gotcha Day. agreed to get a family dog. When we By afternoon we had about fifty. In adopted a yellow Lab mix named Albie, it was Greg Mahle who southwest Louisiana, we stopped at a service station with a large, brought him north from Louisiana. Albie had languished in a grassy field nearby to give each dog a short walk, a job that has public shelter in Alexandria for five months, very fortunate to to be done in the brutal heat and humidity of a Southern sumsurvive. About nine in ten dogs who end up there never leave; mer and the bitter cold of a Northeast winter. As Mahle and I they are euthanized, to put it politely. The south, simply put, has walked the dogs Tommy changed paper in the kennels and filled a massive canine overpopulation problem, but there is demand water bowls. for rescue dogs up north.

As we walked, I was struck by how physical Mahle’s work is.

I was intrigued by Mahle’s bi-monthly odyssey and persuaded Tires need to be changed, roof-mounted air conditioning units him to let me tag along. I also spent time with some of the checked, and the endless hours of driving a big rig are far more tireless people who save these dogs, nurse them back to health, wearying than driving a car. Then there’s lifting dozens of dogs, often at great expense, find them homes and bring them to some weighing eighty pounds or more, in and out of kennels, Mahle’s truck to begin the final leg of their long journey home. securing the leashes and sometimes being towed along by a These people see so much suffering that compassion fatigue can large dog very happy to be free of his kennel so he can do his be an occupational hazard. For every dog they save there are business. Some bounded down the stairs of the truck; some had thousands they cannot, and the faces of those left behind to be handed down into our waiting arms. Zack, a mixed breed,

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“

The miles are long and the days longer, but after a six day odyssey Mahle gets the ultimate reward: a dog kiss and the opportunity to see dozens of once homeless dogs united with their forever families.

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seemed petrified as he climbed into my arms. Jenna, a black Lab, just rolled over, wanting a belly rub.

It’s impossible not to get peed on or to get poop smeared on your clothes when you’re handling so many dogs. Mix in the sweat from walking dozens of dogs in the Louisiana heat with no shower for two days (and none to come for another two), and you have a recipe for an undeniably pungent yet oddly sweet smell. And yet, just as I was wondering how I was going to go another two days without a shower, Mahle ambled by with one of the dogs and said, in all seriousness, “I pity people with real jobs.”

Mahle charges $185 to transport a dog. Expenses are high: fuel alone can run $7,000 or more per month, there are salaries to be paid (to Tommy, for example) and constant, costly, repairs among others.

Mahle devotes upwards of 400 hours a month to his work; even when he’s not on the road, Rescue Road Trips is a more than full time job.

When you do the math, he’s making less—often significantly less— than minimum wage, depending on how many dogs he has on a run.

By the time Mahle pointed the truck north we had more than 80 dogs on board. The longest stretch of driving is from central Louisiana virtually non-stop through the night to Allentown, Pennsylvania where Mahle arrives every other Friday evening. But on Thursday evening, outside of Birmingham, we stopped for a few hours. Here Mahle’s “Birmingham Angels,” as he calls them, a group of some three-dozen volunteers, come and give each dog an extended walk and whole lot of love. Similar groups meet the truck in Allentown and Rocky Hill, Connecticut every other week.

As we rumbled north through Tennessee and Virginia, Mahle spoke frequently about the people in rescue whose faces adopters never see and whose names they may never know.

“We are all cogs in a wheel in rescue,” Mahle explained. “Everyone has a role to play. No one’s job is any more important than anyone else’s. It takes a hundred people playing their roles to save a dog.”

From the moment we left Zanesville on Monday—a bittersweet parting because Mahle adores his wife Adella and stepson Connor, 12—Mahle made frequent use of Facebook. He documents every rescue road trip, and posts dozens of pictures of the dogs along the way.

For the eager and anxious families waiting down the line he wants the excitement to build as they follow their pups from the deep South to the North. He wants Gotcha Day to be unforgettable.

Mahle’s Facebook chronicles have another audience, too—the many people who extended hearts and hands to make each dog’s journey possible. They may never see a Gotcha Day in person but through Mahle’s posts they can share the joy and see the happy endings they helped make possible.

photo jane zippillii

After a long journey, a family to call one’s own.

”

photo annette woodcocka

You know, a few days ago these dogs were all going to die. Now, the doors will open, the light will pour in, and each one will be delivered into the arms of a loving family. This is heaven.

photo jane zippillii

Mahle always writes a Facebook post his shoulders worthwhile. after the truck crosses into Pennsylvania As we approach Putnam, I ask Mahle on Friday afternoons. “We have crossed what it’s like for him at the end of the Mason-Dixon Line!” he wrote.

Gotcha Day when, suddenly, the trailer “All bad memories of being homeless, is empty and quiet. starved, abused, abandoned, unwanted, “It’s a difficult emotion to explain,” he and unloved are behind us. Our thoughts says softly after a long pause. “I’m happy are on forever families and forever love. to be finished and excited to be going home Gotcha Day is almost here. Are you excited? to see Adella and Connor. But I don’t like going Is your welcome sign ready? Get ready, we are back in the trailer because the dogs are all gone.

Greg Mahle (left) with almost there!”

It’s lifeless and cold, plastic and metal. Right author Peter Zheutlin.

The next morning, inside the trailer, the now, it’s full of life in its best form.” start of Gotcha Day is marked by the sound of “When the last dog is handed to his new a single dog barking, then two, and then three. Soon you can family,” he adds, “I survey the panorama of people with their hear the sound of wagging tails brushing against kennel walls, new dogs and think, I’ve never seen so many happy people. paws scratching at kennel doors, and an occasional whimper.

They’re all having the same experience and you The sounds build gradually, as the rising din stirs more dogs to can believe the world is a better place.” n wakefulness, until the trailer is alive with the sounds of eighty This article was adapted from the New York Times bestselling dogs on the threshold of new lives. book Rescue Road by Peter Zheutlin, published by For Mahle, this is the day that makes the endless miles of Sourcebooks. If you’re looking for a great read, this truly blacktop, the long absences from home, the exhausting work and heartwarming story about an extraordinary man helping to give thousands of dogs a second chance is it! the burden of carrying so many people’s hopes and dreams on

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Best Buds Two can be trouble but a dynamic duo always wins

Zola & Friend

ZOLA & FRIEND SUBMITTED BY DONNA CHEEK

I love my brother from another mother!

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TEX & MISS PATCHES SNORT SUBMITTED BY SYDNEY QUINN

Forever Friends!

Tex & Miss Patches Snort

These two Miniature

Australian Shepherd Tex loves agility, cheese, and his unusual best friend, a piglet. Sydney Quinn shares, “I rescued Tex from the shelter about five years ago and he has been the best dog I have ever owned.

Miss Patches Snort is a potbelly piglet and loves all things edible and all things not edible. She is about nine months old and is a diva!”

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Elmer & Eloise

MAYLA & PENELOPE SUBMITTED BY ALLY

Mayla & Penelope

excuse me, we're having a moment

you heard him

ELMER & ELOISE SUBMITTED BY MARIGRACE PAPAGNI

give us the treats

HUNTER & STUART SUBMITTED BY ESTE TURCK

Hunter & Stuart

YEES? We have a belly rub agreement

BORIS & VILMA SUBMITTED BY JOSIE CALANCHE

Double Trouble!

Boris & Vilma

The Toll?

Two treats please. moderndogmagazine.com

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BODY & SOUL CHILI SUBMITTED BY KELSEY; GYPSY SUBMITTED BY HEATHER WHREN

YOUR DOG IS GOING TO NEED THOSE TEETH FOR A LONG TIME

Here’s how to help her keep them!

A whopping 80% of dogs and cats will show signs of periodontal disease, including red and swollen gums, bad breath, pain, and tooth loss. Small and mid-sized dog breeds are especially susceptible.

Bad breath is usually the first telltale sign that your dog has underlying oral health issues, but you need to tackle more than just the funky breath! An easy to follow (this is key to success) oral health care regimen is extremely important for your dog’s long-term health and also reduces the likelihood of periodontal disease, discomfort for your dog, and costly teeth cleaning visits to the vet, which usually require general anesthetic.

In short, it’s time to commit to an action plan! We asked Bluestem, pet oral health care experts, for a routine that works. Here are their four steps to ensuring your dog has a healthy mouth and keeps those teeth!

Good oral care for dogs is not that different than it is for people. We brush, rinse, and (hopefully) floss; the same multi-pronged approach works best for dogs.

Mechanical 1 The single most effective mode for cleaning teeth is the mechanical action of direct contact. Brushing teeth using toothpaste formulated for dogs is the best defense. Specially designed dental chews and toys can also provide the mechanical abrasion to clean dog’s teeth.

Rinsing 2 Rinses complement the mechanical action of teeth cleaning by ensuring the whole mouth—teeth, tongue, gums and palate—receives attention. Of course, dogs and cats can’t rinse and spit so an easy to use drinking water additive is the ideal choice. Gels and foams can also be used. The key is to choose a rinse formulated for pets that has the right formulation to prevent and disperse biofilm, which is where harmful bacteria associated with periodontal disease multiply.

Diet 3 Specialized dog food products are also available, usually in larger, dry kibble form. These foods help clean teeth through chewing action.

Make It Routine 4 Just like caring for our own teeth is an everyday function, so it goes for cats and dogs. It’s important to select a routine that you, as a pet owner, can conveniently take care of every day. This is why daily use of an oral care rinse for dogs, like an oral care water additive, can be a great idea.

BIG BUSINESS Where’s there’s need, there’s demand.

The pet oral care market is forecast to grow to nearly $1 billion by 2020, and sales of products in the category will outpace overall pet market sales.

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MOOSE SUBMITTED BY STACEY; TUCKER SUBMITTED BY KIMBERLY BURLESON

If left untreated, periodontal disease progresses to plaque build up, gum recession, loosened teeth, bad breath, inflammation, and bleeding of the gums, and, eventually, loss of teeth, oral infections, and even poor overall health.

SAY CHEESE!

SMILEY SUBMITTED BY MARGIE

BODY & SOUL

Tips For A Dazzling Smile A Treat For Your Dog’s Teeth Ilio Teeth treats (Ilio means “dog” in Hawaiian) are delicious, easy-to-digest dental treats with a patentpending nubbed design that slows chewing and ensures effective cleaning of teeth and gums. Plus dogs love them! Find them at iliodentals.com.

MODERN DOG POLL QUESTION Do you clip your dog's nails yourself?

CAST YOUR VOTE AT MODERNDOGMAGAZINE.COM

Tooth Cleaning Tip When brushing your dog’s teeth, pay special attention to outside surface of the teeth (between cheek and teeth). Your dog’s tongue helps to clean the inside surface, but can’t reach the outside as effectively.

THIRST QUENCHER The Ultimate Water Bowl This ergonomic, spill-free, food-grade Torus water bowl from Heyrex filters and stores your dog’s water so he always has a fresh, clean supply! Its innovative design stores water in the bowl’s hollow walls, protecting the water from contaminants and auto replenishing as your dog drinks. Its low profile means no spills and its valve-lock feature makes it a perfect travel companion! $60, heyrex.com.

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Healthy pups!

MD ResuPoll lts

62%

of Modern Dog readers give their dog supplements

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BODY & SOUL

FOOD FOR GOOD!

An All Natural Dog Food & Treat Company On A Mission To Help Healthy dog food that helps a rescue dog with every purchase you make? We're in! Dog For Dog is the dog food that gives back. Their dog food, treats, and Dogsbutter (think extrahealthy peanut butter blends with additions like ginger, flaxseed, and coconut, made specifically for dogs—perfect for hiding pills!) will delight your dog. And for every item you buy, one is given to a shelter dog in need! Your dog will love Dog For Dog’s natural products packed with health boosting ingredients, and you’ll feel great that you’re helping a dog that needs a hand—because every dog deserves the best!

CALL OF THE WILD

Your great dog deserves a naturally delicious treat! Barkworthies' all natural, single ingredient chews are treats you can feel good about giving your dog. Choose their naturally shed elk antlers or crocodile bones for a chew your dog will go crazy for.

Find them, plus bully sticks, chews, duck feet, and treat sticks at barkworthies.com.

HEALTHY DOG TREAT RECIPES… Find them at

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moderndogmagazine.com/soupicepop

moderndogmagazine.com/tendertumbiscuits

ILLUSTRATION JESS GOLDEN

MAKE IT!

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BODY & SOUL

YOU NEED THESE APPS

These handy new apps make sure you have vet advice and your dog's records when you need them, even if it's the middle of the night.

YOUR DOG’S COMPLETE VET RECORDS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS! Make sure you have your dog’s medical history on hand when you need it! The free VitusVet app lets you access and share your dog’s complete veterinary records, which is super helpful and even essential if you have multiple vets or specialists that care for your dog, are traveling, or need to make a late emergency visit to the animal ER. Not only does it keep all your dog’s health care professionals informed, it let’s you share vaccination records, sends medication reminders and dosage alerts (perfect for pet sitters!), and more. All this and it’s free! Download the app at vitusvet.com.

VET ADVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT

How to Find the Best, Approved Dog Products

Whether you've got a sick pet or an urgent veterinary question, there’s now an app to help! The easy to use Vets Plus More app gives you access to a certified, 4+ star-rated vet, where you can video chat or text your queries and concerns and get immediate expert advice.

Providing piece of mind when you need it, Vets Plus More lets you determine whether, say, an emergency vet visit is needed, and, if so, will help you get your dog the help he needs by finding the location of the nearest emergency clinic in your area. What's more, the app stores your pet's medical history for easy access, helps you find a local vet, and even provides vaccination and appointment reminders. The app can be downloaded for free and a one-month subscription can be purchased for just $13 at vetsplusmore.com.

We’ve done the sleuthing for you!

To make the search easy, we’ve created a brand new e-store, shop.moderndogmagazine.com, filled with the best of the best, all hand-selected by the Modern Dog editorial team!

Whether you’re looking for wellness products, healthy treats, or the best dog beds or toys, we’ve got you covered!

Find what exactly you’re looking for and shop with confidence at shop.moderndomagazine.com

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From $39.99.

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BODY & SOUL

15 Signs Your Dog is in Pain After reading the excellent Dr. Petty’s Pain Relief for Dogs, by Dr. Mike Petty, a “pain vet” working with cutting-edge research to help relieve canine pain, there were standout parts we just had to share with you, namely: age should never be used as an excuse for an animal in pain; our pets feel as much or more pain than we do; and there is a treatment out there for every dog.

As your dog’s foremost companion, you have an advantage over even her vet in assessing whether your dog is in chronic pain. Talk to your vet if you see any of these 15 symptoms of pain.

#1

Reluctance to walk on slippery surfaces.

#8

Abnormal wear on nails.

#2

Going up or down stairs.

#9

Unwillingness to initiate play or other social interactions.

#3

Becoming selective about what to jump up onto or down from.

#10

Aggression toward other animals where no aggression existed before.

#4

Attempting to stand up with the front legs first.

#11

Aversion to being petted or brushed.

#5

The simple task of lying down may actually become difficult.

#12

Disruption in sleep patterns.

#6

#13

Stiffness.

Running and jumping activities become more limited.

#14

A decrease in appetite.

#7

Placing an abnormal amount of weight on his front legs.

#15

House-training issues.

To win a copy Dr. Petty’s Pain Relief for Dogs turn to page 22!

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

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Cure A Pet is a 100% non-toxic, natural wound and skin care product that is safe to use on all parts of your animals. It will kill bacteria, prevent infection, and help promote faster healing of skin problems and post surgical sites. Before you call the vet, try Cure A Pet. cureapet.com

All Natural Goodwinol Shampoo is gentle enough for even six-week-old puppies and kittens! This safe and natural shampoo is made in the USA, contains a natural insecticide, and has a clean bright scent! goodwinol.com

Dogs are exposed to a variety of toxins that impact their liver. Vetisse Milk Thistle, the most commonly used herb for liver health support, protects your pet by blocking and removing toxins that enter the liver’s cells. Support better health and longevity with vet-approved Vetisse Milk Thistle! vetisse.com

Cranimals Original UTI Supplement is used by vets worldwide as a natural remedy for recurrent urinary tract infections and infection related struvite stones/crystals and incontinence. Cranimals Original contains only certified organic cranberry extract and delivers up to 50x more active ingredient compared to other brands. Available in 1 pound bulk jars exclusively at cranimals.com!

These all-natural lasting dog chews can be fed indoors with no staining. Grainfree, Smart n’ Tasty Twizzies come in Piggy, Turducky, Chicky, or Peanutty flavours and in 6”, 9”, and 12” lengths. USA made! emeraldpet.com

I’M-YUNITY for Dogs.

Improve your dog’s immunity and quality of life with I’m-Yunity and I’m-Yunity Too. Each contains proprietary medicinal mushroom extracts of Coriolus versicolor and/or Reishi mushroom to reduce pain and fatigue while improving energy levels, mobility, and appetite. Learn about clinical results at ImYunityForDogs.com and use code “moderndog” for a 5% discount! moderndogmagazine.com

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Get In spired!

Pocket-sized inspiration cards to stick on your fridge or use as a bookmark

It's a terrible thing, I think, in life to wait until you're ready. I have this feeling now that actually no one is ever ready to do anything. There is almost no such thing as ready.

There is only now.

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

-Hugh Laurie

-Louis Sabin

Spring is nature's way of saying, 'Let's party!'

Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.

-Robin Williams

-Orhan Pamuk

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Clean & Green Skin irritants, cancer causing ingredients… why you should make sure your dog’s grooming products—as well as your own—are eco-friendly

By Darcy Matheson

N

icole Rossmo-Rigets started preparing homemade dog food with organic ingredients for her Wheaton Terrier back in the 1980s, and credits the wholesome diet for the pup’s longevity.

“Bailey, who lived to 14 years of age, was like a pup until the last seven months of her life,” she says.

But one area that she couldn’t go organic was her dog’s grooming products because they didn’t exist yet.

She says the harsh chemicals hurt Bailey’s skin.

“A Wheaton's skin is extremely sensitive… and hers would show hot spots from conventional grooming,” she says.

Flash forward several decades and Rossmo-Rigets takes her French Water Dog, Coco, to Spa Dog Organic Dog Spa, an organic groomer in Vancouver, Canada, that uses only eco-friendly and natural ingredients that are certified organic or, like the lavender they use, wild-harvested locally.

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Thanks to these natural products, Coco has never experienced negative side effects the way Rossmo-Rigets’ previous dog Bailey did with conventional grooming products.

“Organic is better for dogs and the environment. It's most definitely best for Coco. She’s a healthy, happy girl!” she says.

The owner of the spa, Adam Coladipietro, says he’s heard of plenty of negative health effects from dog owners using conventional grooming products: rashes from shampoos, allergic reactions, and plenty of canines with dry, irritated skin.

He says more dog people are turning to “green grooming” because they want to ditch the harsh chemicals and synthetic colours, fragrances, and ingredients that can hurt their dog.

“We get compliments on how dogs aren’t itchy after coming here, and people will actively seek us out for our shampoos,” he says.

Could the products you use be making your dog sick?

Consider this: BHA, a preservative in makeup, skin moisturizers, and dog shampoos, has been classified as a potential human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Found to cause lung, liver and kidney problems in lab animals, it is banned in cosmetics in the European Union. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.

Bad for Dogs, Bad for People Chemicals and synthetic colours and fragrances are added to many doggie shampoos, conditioners, and other grooming products in a bid to make them smell great and lather. But some of those ingredients contain pesticides, suspected carcinogens, and irritants that can have negative health effects not just for the pup being groomed, but also the people who come into contact with the dog once he’s back in the home, snuggling with his family.

There’s also the damage to the environment once these chemical-based products are washed down the drain. Petroleum products can pollute local drinking water sources and harm fish and wildlife that use the waterways.

Steer Clear: What to Avoid Not surprisingly, some of the product ingredients that are potentially harmful to your pet’s health and the environment also pose risks to our own wellbeing. Here are four of the top ingredients to avoid in pet and people products alike...

1

BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole)

Human use: Preservative in makeup and skin moisturizers Dog grooming: Preservative in dog shampoo Potential harm: Can cause allergic reactions in skin. Listed on the David Suzuki Foundation’s “Dirty Dozen” cosmetic chemicals to avoid, BHA has been classified as a potential human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Found to cause lung, liver and kidney problems in lab animals, it is banned in cosmetics in the European Union. moderndogmagazine.com

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2

DEA (diethanolamine)

Human use: Found in sunscreens and moisturizers; makes shampoos creamy Dog grooming: Used to make dog shampoo sudsy Potential harm: Cocomide DEA, or just DEA, can cause skin and eye irritation and has been linked to liver cancer, according to the David Suzuki Foundation. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies DEA as a possible human carcinogen.

3

SLS (sodium laureth) or SLES (sodium lauryl ether sulfate)

Human use: Makes bubble bath, shower gels, cleansers, soaps, and detergents foamy Dog grooming: Detergents in dog shampoos Potential harm: These inexpensive foaming agents can cause eye or skin irritation. The Environmental Working Group has linked SLS to organ toxicity, cancer, and neurotoxicity. They don’t break down easily in water and can hurt marine organisms.

4

Synthetic colours and fragrances

Human use: Make cosmetics and household products smell and look nicer Dog grooming: Enhances the colour or smell of a grooming product Potential harm: Many synthetics are created from petrochemicals that often contain aldehydes, benzene derivatives, and synthesizers which are known to cause allergic reactions, migraines, and asthma symptoms, according to a warning from the David Suzuki Foundation. Diethyl phthalate in synthetic fragrances is also harmful when it’s washed down the drain as it can be toxic to marine wildlife.

It’s not always a simple task to seek out pet products that are natural and free of harsh chemicals because there are few legal requirements for companies to list the ingredients. While you can try to only buy products from companies that voluntarily list what’s in the product, don’t be afraid to ask the manufacturer if there’s something you don’t recognize. Seek out formulations that are biodegradable, free of parabens and synthetic fragrances, and use organic ingredients wherever possible.

Darcy Matheson is the author of “Greening Your Pet Ownership,” a guide on how to be a more environmentally-conscious pet owner.

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DIY HOME TREATMENTS You can also make your own DIY dog spa treatments at home that work hard without the use of harsh and toxic chemicals.

GREEN DOGGIE SHAMPOO This natural spa shampoo formulation, courtesy of Lindsay Coulter, the “Queen of Green” at the David Suzuki Foundation, has natural flea-repelling properties and does not contain synthetic fragrances. ➳➳ ¾ cup water ➳➳ ¼ cup unscented or scented liquid castile soap (or vegetable glycerin) ➳➳ 1 tbsp. aloe gel ➳➳ Optional: 5–10 drops of anti-flea essential oils like rosemary, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, spearmint, and citronella. Add a drop of each or purchase an anti-flea essential oil blend from a local health store (make sure it’s a blend made especially for dogs—not all essential oils are safe to use on pets).

1. Add all ingredients into an old squirt bottle and shake before each use.

2. After massaging into your dog’s wet coat, rinse well. Be sure to avoid the eye area.

The aloe and glycerin in this recipe can help ease sensitive, itchy and dry skin. (Shelf life: 1 month)

DIY DRY SHAMPOO FOR DOGS

HOMEMADE DOG TOOTHPASTE

A dry or waterless shampoo is a great way to keep your dog fresh in between baths, and will make her coat smell terrific.

The lavender, if you choose to use it, will also act as a natural flea repellent. This formulation costs just pennies per use. ➳➳ ½ cup cornstarch ➳➳ ½ cup baking soda ➳➳ 3–5 drops of lavender essential oil 1. Combine all ingredients and pour into a container with a shaker top (spice or seasoning jars work well).

2. Brush your dog first then shake on the dry shampoo. Rub through your dog’s coat with your hands. Caution: Your dark dog will appear ghost-ish until you towel off the excess!

3. Brush again and then dust off your dog with an old towel.

This toothpaste recipe from the pet blog ‘Live. Pant. Play.’ will leave your pup’s mouth minty-fresh and is made from items you likely already have in your kitchen. The bouillon cube makes it extra yummy and the baking soda acts as a natural abrasive that will help remove stubborn plaque. ➳➳ 1/4 cup coconut oil ➳➳ 1 cube of chicken or beef bullion ➳➳ 3 tbsp. baking soda ➳➳ 6-7 mint leaves 1. Put all ingredients into your blender and blend until everything is nicely mixed.

2. Store in your fridge in an airtight container.

3. Use a pea-sized dollop. It’s okay if they swallow the mixture (make sure you’re only using the recommended amount).

Keeps for: 2 weeks.

NATURAL BUGSPRAY COLLAR

DIY PAW PAD PROTECTOR

➳➳ A bandana or collar made with natural fibers ➳➳ 8–10 drops of a natural oil with bug-repelling properties, like cedar, geranium or lavender ➳➳ 2 tbsp. of water 1. Dilute the essential oil with a few tablespoons of water.

2. Once mixed, use an eyedropper or turkey baster to apply to collar or bandana.

3. Once dry, place on your dog’s neck. You can also rub a few drops of the diluted oil near the base of your dog’s tail.

Your dog’s paws and nose can become dry and cracked when exposed to the elements. Apply this wax salve to the bottom of your dog’s paw pads or on her nose to soothe the dryness. The oils will be absorbed into the pad to create a layer of protection. ➳➳ 2 tbsp. natural beeswax (can purchase from craft store) ➳➳ 2 tbsp. olive or coconut oil ➳➳ 5 drops vitamin E (for extra protection) 1. Melt the beeswax in a double boiler on the stove or, if using a microwave, in a shallow pan atop a water bath. Add oil when fully melted.

2. Stir. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. n

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STAR DOG WINNER

INSET OF STARBUCK: SHELLEY CASTLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Could your dog be on our next cover?

Our next Star Dog contest launches this May. Enter your dog's photo at moderndogmagazine.com/stardog.

Make A

!

S U RUCK How our two top dogs joined smaller forces for good Photos of Ruckus by Darcy Evans

I

t all came down to a proverbial olive branch.

During our last Star Dog contest something magical happened: the teams behind our two top dogs—Ruckus, a cancer-surviving Vizsla, and Starbuck, a Pit Bull who lost her leg when she was thrown from a moving vehicle at just three months of age—decided, instead of battling for the win, to support each other, not only offering words of encouragement but even financial support for the other’s animal-welfare-related causes.

(If only the same could happen in politics!)

It was as simple as bridging the gap. When comments were made online questioning how quickly Ruckus was climbing the ranks to become a top contender in the vote driven contest, Joe Chowaniec, Ruckus’ owner, reached out to Allison Phillips, Starbuck’s adopter—and a friendship was formed.

Joe explains, “I felt that both teams needed to deal with the comments in a positive way so I reached out to Allison and had a great conversation over email about both dogs.”

Following their chat, Allison posted a note to the Starbuck Team page wishing both dogs good luck, and Joe shared Starbuck’s story with the Vizsla community, who were moved

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by her story. When Ruckus ultimately won, his many supporters wanted to do something for Starbuck, too. “They told Allison to increase her fundraising goal for abused and disabled dogs,” Joe reports. “Thanks to Vizsla owners around the world, over $3500 were raised for Starbucks’ cause.” But the good vibes didn't end there. In return, Allison donated to Joe’s local humane shelter on Ruckus’ behalf. Then Joe, along with many other Vizsla owners, also donated to their local shelters.

“In the end,” Joe said, “a new family of friends was created and Starbuck is a honorary Vizsla and a true Star Dog!” Allison seconds the sentiment. “Team Ruckus is incredible!

They helped us raise over $4,000 for Lotsa Love Pet Rescue and Adoptions. We are so thankful and grateful to have met them through the contest and wish we could just scream THANK YOU TEAM RUCKUS! I think it's so important that we work together.

That has been the best part about these contests. We've made so many amazing, lasting friendships along the way. We are so blessed!”

As for us, we are thrilled to be able to feature both these amazing dogs and their people on these pages.

RUCKUS THE VIZSLA Get to Know the Vizsla: Joe Gives Us The Lowdown OnHis Favourite Breed Best things about Vizslas? They are extremely intelligent, devoted, loyal, and friendly dogs. We often refer to them as ‘Velcro dogs’ as they always want to be included in all aspects of family life.

Who would the breed be a good match for?

Individuals or families that are active and have a lot of patience during the first few years of their dog’s life—Vizslas test boundaries. They need room to run and burn off energy, but they also need a comfortable bed, pillow, and blanket.

Interesting breed quirks? They are extremely clean, groom themselves like cats, and don't have the typical dog smell. Also, every Vizsla we have had—all four of them— required that they be covered in a blanket for the night!

STARBUCK THE TRIPAWD!

PHOTO ALLISON PHILLIPS

Allison Talks “Pibble” Pride and Love on Three Legs What do you want people to know about Pit Bulls/bully breeds?

I really wish people would understand that “Pit Bull” is usually just a lump term for a mutt.

When people ask me what Starbuck is mixed with I usually say “Staffy? Lab? Sugar and spice and everything nice?” I have no idea, she's a “pibble,” she's a mutt, she’s an awesome dog! I also want to stress the Pit Bull advocacy should be about education, nondiscrimination, and it should be positive.”

What would you like people to know about “tripawds?”

“It's amazing to see how quickly an animal can recover from losing a leg. I think people could learn a lot from dogs. I used to have a very bad attitude about getting arthritis at 23, and I let it get the best of me, but seeing my best friend Starbuck accomplish such amazing things missing a leg, I started working on getting over it and last year I completed my first half-marathon thanks to Starbuck!

Thanks to our amazing Star Dog Contest sponsor Adaptil!

What's the best thing about having rescued Starbuck?

“That's such a loaded question! She's just an amazing dog. She is so full of love, she's so happy, she's incredibly patient, she's pretty well behaved, and she's just a lot of fun. She is everything I could ever ask for in a best friend. The added bonus of rescuing a “tripawd” is she helped me get over my physical issues. The added bonus of rescuing a dog that had been through abuse was she helped me get over social anxiety from years of being bullied. The added bonus of adopting a Pit was I found the sense of purpose I lost after getting out of the Coast Guard. I also see so much good in so many people now. Instead of "who rescued who?" I always say that I adopted Starbuck but she rescued me. When I see Starbuck I don't see a dog that was thrown out of a car when she was a baby. I see this beautiful strong dog that people pulled together to save, and I see her Team standing beside her, helping us with our mission, and they are so supportive and so kind. So to answer the question, the best thing about adopting Starbuck is the amount of love that came with it!” n

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For energetic dogs that just won't tire, the interactive iFetch Automatic Ball Launcher keeps going long after you're tuckered out! Just set it to launch 10, 25, or 40 feet (adjustable to keep your dog guessing!) and get ready for non-stop fun! Available in two sizes for dogs big or small. From $115, goifetch.com

The DOOG Walkie Bag is conveniently equipped with a water bottle/tennis ball holder, waterproof inner sleeve to protect your phone, and a built in pocket for poo bags! Available in four great colours, it's the epitome of style and function. $40, doogusa.com

Look

WHAT WE FOUND! Cool finds for dogs & the people who love them

This totally gorgeous, handstitched, padded collar, fittingly named Jewel of the Nile, features soft blue Napa leather, brass outfitting, and gold domed rivets coupled with Swarovski crystals. From $285, beverlyhillscollars.com

How cool is this? Miso Pup's interchangeable pet carrier for tiny to small dogs let’s you nestle their airline approved mesh carrier inside any of Miso Pup's fashionable shell totes. Use it as a standalone carrier or switch up the look by changing the outer tote—comfortable, stylish, and practical! From $115, misopup.com

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Color Pet's Maya collection of collars, leashes, and harnesses are hand-woven by artists in Guatemala, creating unique designs for your one-of-a-kind dog. Their bold colours and distinct designs are sure to turn heads! From $15, colorpet.com

Make your morning coffee even better with a mug featuring your dog's mug! Upgrade your coffee experience with a Personalized Pooch pet coffee mug. All you have to do is upload a photo of your dog and they'll handle the rest. (Great gift idea!) $24, personalizedpooch.com

Ultra cozy and ultra chic, Bowsers’ Oslo Ortho Bed combines revolutionary cool gel memory foam technology with modern design. Its scooped front allows easy access for smaller, older, or arthritic dogs, but any dog is sure to fall in love with this luxuriously comfy bed! (We love the new Chantilly microvelvet fabric!) From $115, bowsers.com

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INSPIRE

PHOTO CONNIE WILSON

Modern Dog's Editor & Creative Director Jennifer Nosek gives some love to a resident baby pot-bellied pig.

BEST FRIENDS FOREVER An animal lover's dream vacation

By Jennifer Nosek

T

he first thing that strikes you upon arrival in Southwest Utah is the landscape, otherworldly and gloriously so, with stunning red rock cliffs meeting the largest and bluest of skies. Our destination? The Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, located in the wonderfully named Angel Canyon, found just outside of Kanab, Utah, and nestled between the sprawling ochre-hued rocks of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion national parks.

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The Sanctuary is the heart of Best Friends Animal Society, the lauded national animal welfare organization. In its 30-plus years of operation, the Sanctuary has grown from little more than a dream to America’s largest no-kill haven for companion animals.

Nearly 2,000 animals, including dogs, cats, goats, horses, birds, rabbits, and pigs call the Sanctuary home.

Many of the animals are up for adoption but there are also those who will live out their lives here. All of them will receive

They come to vacation, to volunteer, to take in the acres of majestic natural beauty that the Sanctuary occupies—in short, they come to be a part of the magic.

a lot of love—more than 25,000 people per year visit. They come to vacation, to volunteer, to take in the acres of majestic natural beauty that the Sanctuary occupies—in short, they come to be a part of the magic.

Of the original 31 founders, 18—all self professed old hippies—still live on the property.

The dream of a no-kill shelter has grown into the dream of a no-kill nation, and this amazing organization is now doing good work on a national scale. The contribution and change inspired by the non-profit is tremendous. The have become the leader in the no-kill animal movement, bestowing immense grants on city shelters to help them transition to no-kill, launching education initiatives and spay and neuter campaigns, lobbying government for better animal protection, helping shut down puppy mills, and more. All of this is made even more amazing by the prevalent laid-back vibe. It’s no wonder people want to be a part of this. One volunteer we spoke with had actually moved from out of state to be closer to the Sanctuary.

Throughout the day, volunteers and staff are found at varying tasks—socializing puppies, taking enthusiastic dogs for walks, working with terrified former strays, chatting with shy cats, playing with kittens, and clicker training bunnies. Come lunchtime, most everyone convenes for a vegetarian buffet offered every day and which, in the deal of the century, is not only delicious but just $5 and enjoyed at communal tables with million dollar views.

More than a few moments move us to tears—the proud-as-punch woman we meet just outside the gift shop (tip: be sure to pick up awesome Best Friends tees as we did) who has just decided to adopt a fluffy, scruffy, little mixed-breed dog; the reward of finally, moderndogmagazine.com

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From left: Three of the founders of Best Friends Animal Society, Faith Maloney, Jana de Peyer, and Cyrus Mejia.

finally coaxing a very scared dog to take a treat; walking one of the rescue dogs, his thrill to be out for a romp matched by ours; the heart-string-tugging experience of visiting Angel’s Rest, the final resting place for Sanctuary animals as well as the pets of Best Friends members and staff. Here, surrounded by the beauty of Angel Canyon, we wander the serene setting, the musical sound of wind chimes ringing with the slightest breeze as we pass by a multitude of markers, each in remembrance of a beloved animal. To say it is moving doesn’t begin to capture the spirit of this special place.

Angel’s Rest, like all of the Sanctuary, is a spiritreplenishing place where a deep and profound respect for animals is evidenced. It is quite simply a pleasure to spend time with likeminded folks amongst nature and animals.

Yet among all these highlights, some of our favourite moments were spent hanging with the “crazy ones, misfits, and rebels,” as the founders characterize themselves. Their magnetism and remarkable vision has changed the very conversation and practice around animal sheltering and pet population control. They’ve inspired others to take up the cause of the no-kill movement and believe it, together we’ll get there, far sooner than many could have predicted thanks to the passion of the Best Friends crew and their ever-growing supporters. But don’t take our word for it—go see for yourself! n

IF YOU GO... The Sanctuary is open to both visitors and volunteers. If you’re planning a visit, consider reserving one of the cottages, cabins, or RV sites, all located on Sanctuary grounds. Cottages accommodate up to six guests and three pets, with rates starting at $95 a night. The Angel Canyon cabins are a smaller, cozier option for one to two guests and two pets and start at just $60. If you’d like, you can even invite one of the Sanctuary pets for a sleepover and provide a meaningful break and socialization opportunity for an adoptable animal! There are also many off-site accommodations to be found in town.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

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This must-have works with a 60/40 or 50/50 split seat.

4Knines.com

Peach Pet Loungers are the sleek, modern, hammock-style beds that both you and your pup will love! 100% USAmade and available in 14 gorgeous prints at peachpetprovisions.com.

Make sure everyone knows who your pet belongs to!

Pawdentify Tags are easier to read, more durable, lighter, and quieter than metal tags. Includes LinksIt to attach tags to collars easily. Lifetime guarantee and 100+ colorful designs. pawdentify.com

Keep your dog safe! SHONGear’s high visibility Alert Vests for special needs and traveling pets include “do not pet” vests and vests for blind and deaf dogs.

Wellbeing plus loss prevention!

SHONGear.com

The new Handy PawSponge keeps your dog's paws from tracking dirt and germs into your home or vehicle. Great for use after dog walks and outdoor play. Order this essential now at PawSponge.com!

SqueakNSnap plugs into your phone so, when you squeak it, it snaps a picture!

Your dog (or kids) will look up for the squeak—and take a perfect picture every time! squeaknsnap.com

Keep your pup looking dapper on P.L.A.Y.’s timeless, super-comfy Houndstooth Lounge Bed. Adding polish to any setting, this bed is 100% washable and available in four colors and sizes on PetPLAY.com.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Surprise My Pet is a monthly subscription pet box filled with 5 - 7 surprises! Each box is hand picked and packed for your dog’s size. Expect healthy treats, quality toys, and even a surprise for you! surprisemypet.com

PowerBark is the original meal in a bar for your dog! Wheat, corn, soy and gluten free with added vitamins and minerals, your dog will never go hungry again! Perfect for travel and hiking! powerbark.com

Veterinary questions? VetX can answer them all! This smartphone app connects pet owners to veterinarians at the touch of a button for reliable, expert information regarding your pet’s health! vetxapp.com Chicken Soup for the Soul grain-free dry and wet recipes are all natural, with real meat, poultry or fish as the first ingredient. Made in the USA, a portion of all proceeds supports animal shelters. chickensoup.com/pets

True Leaf Pet’s amazing True Hemp functional chews for dogs come in three varieties: Hip & Joint, Calming, and Health Support.

Ingredients include hemp, green lipped mussel, turmeric, calming herbs, and more! trueleaf.com

Look stylish with this luxurious, multifunctional designer leash by High5dogs! Their innovative CLIC leash allows for easy tethering and four different ways to lead your dog. Available in three colours at high5dogs.com!

This problem-solving interactive play center is designed to mentally stimulate dogs! The Buster ActivityMat uses a wide range of snap-on tasks for playtime that challenges your dog! kruuse.com

For pain-free grooming, try Untangler pet grooming tools! Trusted for 35 years, the original untangling comb features rotating teeth to gently detangle. Rakes, brushes, and flea combs take the stress out of home grooming. Under $10, theuntangler.com

Cloudpuff pet blanket by Sleepypod pampers pets with a sumptuous layer of comfort and coziness without sacrificing durability. Made from ultra soft plush and microfiber suede backing, it’s dreamy and machine washable.

From $30, sleepypod.com moderndogmagazine.com

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STARS & THEIR PETS

Prepare to fall in love with a real-life dog-rescuing prince still in search of love

I

t seems almost too good to be true. In a real-life fairy tale waiting to happen, we have a prince—yes, a real actual prince—with good looks, charm, fortune, and pedigree, looking for his princess.

The scion of an Italian noble family, Prince Lorenzo Borghese can trace his lineage back past the 13th century, but don’t think that makes him stuffy. Our prince loves animals and is devoted to their rescue, rolling up his sleeves and getting down with rescue-dog transport as co-founder of Animal Aid USA. As for his would-be partner, well, it’s a prerequisite that she love dogs too.

If any of this sounds familiar, it’s likely because Lorenzo was the star of the ninth season of ABC’s The Bachelor, though, lucky for us, the season failed to end in pending nuptials. When we saw a recent pro-rescue spoof of The Bachelor in which Lorenzo holds a rose ceremony for an assembled crew of adoptable dogs, we decided it was high time we chatted with the prince about his incredible commitment to and passion for rescuing dogs and, yes, ask a few questions about just who might get the final rose in his continued search for Miss Right.

Lorenzo got involved with dog rescue when he launched his natural pet spa and wellness line, the Royal Treatment, in 2002.

(Paraben and surfactant-free, he was way ahead of the curve.

Lorenzo’s family has been in cosmetics since the 1950s.) “I started doing research and was shocked with how we treat our

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must love dogs

animals, how we euthanize, how there are animals you could adopt instead of buy, what’s going on with puppy mills,” Lorenzo explains.

Inspired to help, he started volunteering and, at a fundraising event, was put in touch with Karen Talbot LaSasso. Karen had founded a dog rescue initiative for her son’s elementary school, which had grown into The MOMS Rescue and Georgia Puppy Caravan. Lorenzo was so impressed with Karen’s animal rescue work focused on rescuing dogs from kill-shelters in Georgia— “one of the most inhumane states with regard to the treatment of animals,” Lorenzo notes—that he knew he had to go along on one of her rescue missions. He was so moved by the experience that he wanted to help Karen take it to the next level. Together they co-founded Animal Aid USA, a non-profit dedicated to rescuing and re-homing Southern shelter dogs. Today, hundreds of volunteers participate in a monthly rescue transport of Georgian rescue dogs to their new lives in South Jersey and beyond. To date, they have saved over 11,000 dogs.

There are lots of volunteers involved in these feel-good missions, both in the actual transport itself and in the reception of the dogs upon their arrival. “At the South Jersey receiving area there are a ton of volunteers, like the Girl Scouts, that wait for us,” Lorenzo shares. “They bathe the dogs, get them ready for

PHOTOS LEXIE BOEZEMAN CATALDO, IN JOY PHOTOGRAPHY

America's Most Eligible

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PHOTOS LEXIE BOEZEMAN CATALDO, IN JOY PHOTOGRAPHY

adoption.” Knowing firsthand the power of a good PR campaign, Lorenzo frequently arranges for some of the dogs to be featured on TV in “surprise adoptions.” Lorenzo recounts one such segment featuring a young woman who was fostering a Yorkie she had become quite attached to. When Lorenzo announces that the dog has been adopted, the young woman is visibly upset—until, in a perfect TV moment, it’s revealed that the adopter is actually her mom. There are happy tears all around.

Lorenzo understands this emotional connection. The Royal Treatment, his pet line, was borne of a desire to fix his black Lab Belle’s skin condition. Unfortunately, his inspiration, Belle, has since passed—though her memory lives on. Endearingly Lorenzo shares, “I hope you don’t think this is weird but she’s under my desk—I have her ashes under my desk because that’s where she used to hang out during the day.”

Smitten, we can’t help but ask if he’s still searching for his bachelorette, the reply to which is a simple and straightforward “yes.”

Lorenzo summarizes the qualities he’s looking for as thus: “One, she has to love animals; two, she has to love me, and three, she has to love people and love to travel. And lastly, she has to be honest.”

Best of all, were you to date this prince, your dog would be welcome to tag along. “I’ve been on many [romantic dates accompanied by dogs],” he asserts. “I used to take my dog on dates with me all the time. The only issue with taking her was she got more attention than I did!”

And if he really wanted to impress a date? “I would take them on one of our caravans. And not just to impress, but to see how emotional they get and how much they care,” he says.

“The caravans are really incredible and if you really want to get to know somebody, spend time in a car with them and spend time with them around animals. It’s just an incredible bonding experience.” n

Why Keeping Your Dog’s Nails Trimmed Is Way More Important Than You Think Knowing how to trim nails greatly improves your dog’s health and happiness

By Dr. Peter Dobias

H

ave you ever been cutting your dog’s nails and gotten too close to the nail bed? It is not a good feeling. Most dog lovers know that cutting canine nails well is a tricky process; it’s not always easy to know where to stop trimming. As a result, some people may feel a little nervous or even avoid nail trimming, but proper nail care is essential for your dog’s comfort and even his health.

If you’re like me, you love spending time with your dog and take him out for regular walks, but it might surprise you that walking alone may not be enough to keep your dog’s nails at the perfect length. It takes time walking on a variety of abrasive surfaces to wear down a dog's nails, so for today’s modern dogs, it is important to check their nails regularly to see if they need trimming.

You may have never thought that correctly trimmed nails can greatly contribute your dog’s health, but consider what Chinese Traditional Medicine says about the digits. According to this ancient science, the body’s energy lines, or meridians, begin at the end of every finger and toe; it is the same for a canine’s digits.

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These energy lines directly connect to the organs and other parts of the body and relate to overall wellbeing.

Nails that are too long can cause our dogs’ feet to get out of alignment and interrupt the flow of energy, cause discomfort, affect their health, and cause a variety of problems.

Just like anything in nature, the canine body is made up of electromagnetic particles that need to be in harmony for our dogs to be healthy and happy.

Considering the tips of our dog’s toes are so important to their overall health and wellness, I would like to share a few points about safe and healthy nail trimming.

First, determine if your dog’s nails need a trim by taking a look at the length. They should be fairly short and ideally they should not be touching the ground on a firm, flat surface.

If they are long, you can start by trimming bit by bit, only 1–2 millimeters at a time. Dog nail clippers should have a U-shaped blade on the top and bottom because it conforms to the shape of your dog’s nail and won’t squish the nail and cause discomfort when you cut. That is why I never use flat human nail trimmers.

If your dog's nail profile is U-shaped when you make the first small cut, then it is too long. For dogs with black nails, you can tell they are too long when it has an upside down U with a dark margin and lighter centre.

Continue clipping until you start seeing a small darker centre surrounded by lighter nail.

Better still than a nail clipper (though they get the job done) is a rotating file, like a Dremel tool. This makes it easy to slowly file down the nail and avoid hitting the Dr. Peter Dobias quick. It's important not to set the RPMs too high because it could cause the nail to overheat, causing discomfort. Also, a medium-coarse tip should be used to keep the vibration comfortable for your dog.

Regardless of the tool you’re using, keep your dog happy and at ease during a nail clipping session by having good quality, natural treats on hand. When it comes to nail trimming, bribery is definitely allowed!

It's natural for a dog to want to move around. When this happens, continue holding the foot gently and move in the

direction she wants to move for a moment, then go gently back to the desired position. It is important not to let go of the foot; if you do you will create a bad habit by teaching your dog to wiggle out every time you start trimming. Be gentle and do not fight with your dog, just do not let the foot go or it will be hard to complete the task.

If you hit the quick and cause bleeding, there is no need to panic. There is no way your dog could bleed out. Calmly apply a gauze pad soaked in Healing Solution & his dog Skai (peterdobias.com) to the bleeding nail and apply steady pressure. If the bleeding does not stop in five minutes, apply a bandage for four to 12 hours. As an alternative, you can purchase silver nitrate sticks to stop the bleeding by applying the stick to the injured area. These sticks should be available from your veterinarian or a pet store.

Following this simple routine every two to three weeks, you can assure your dog will be moving comfortably and with good energy flow throughout the whole body.

Good health starts with a perfect dog pedicure! n

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RESCUE

PHOTO FRANCIS VACHON/AP IMAGES FOR HSI

THE INBETWEENERS

Dogs awaiting rescue during a large-scale dog rescue operation in Bonsecours, Quebec.

The unsung heroes that rehabilitate dogs rescued from egregious abuse—think puppy mill seizures and hoarding cases—play a vital, if oftentimes unrecognized, role in saving animals desperately in need of a second chance and hereto unknown human kindness

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PHOTO MICHAEL BERNARD

One of the dogs rescued from a puppy mill in Quebec by HSI/Canada and the Quebec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food. Volunteers and staff help with the daily care of over 200 rescued dogs.

A

lot happens in between a rescue operation and adoption, but sheltering doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves. It’s a long road to recovery for abused and neglected animals, with volunteers working hard behind-the-scenes to give deserving dogs and cats (and roosters?) a second chance at a happy life.

Blink and you missed it—an asphalt lot, two non-descript warehouses, and a whole lot of emptiness. Trucks and local commuter traffic whiz by along a rural road, the drivers clueless to the fact they’re within barking distance of an emergency animal shelter. What they don’t know is that it’s kept secret for a reason.

Inside, hundreds of dogs and cats and even a few roosters are in various stages of recuperation, having been seized from terrible situations. These survivors—emaciated, parasite ridden, malnourished, scared, and battling infection—have been removed from hoarding or abusive situations. They begin their road to recovery at this facility, where selfless volunteers spend their days cleaning cages, scrubbing floors, and making life more bearable for their furry wards while the legal system decides custody.

Take Maggy, for instance—rescuers found this sweet, blond Pomeranian crammed into a tiny cage filled with other dogs inside a densely-packed puppy mill. Born a prisoner, she never received the care and attention she so desperately needed. When Maggy was finally liberated from her cage, veterinary technicians discovered she was suffering from a very large and very painful bleeding tumor on her abdomen. Thankfully, she received immediate attention, followed by weeks of individual care, and today she lives a happy, healthy life with her adoptive family.

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From puppy mill to forever home: how it works

Animal welfare laws and rescue protocol vary from state-to-state and province-to-province. Typically, an animal welfare organization is only allowed to carry out inspections and seizures if some level of government mandates them to do so. A rescue occurs following inspections that prove the animals on the premise are not being adequately cared for according to law. It is usually only the most egregious cases of abuse or neglect that result in a seizure. These are the animals that end up in an interim facility as described above.

Once the animals are rescued and removed from the property, they are transported to a shelter or emergency facility where they are housed and cared for until a judge has ruled on the case.

This process can take weeks, months, sometimes even up to a year—which places tremendous strain on the people responsible for providing care.

Humane Society International/Canada, a non-profit animal welfare organization, knows these pressures all too well. Based in Montreal, they work with the Quebec government and assist in rescue operations. They also have the sole responsibility of managing the emergency shelter, the location of which is kept a secret for security reasons. And because the running and operation of the shelter is almost entirely dependent upon fundraising, money is always in short supply and volunteers are worth their weight in gold.

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A passion for helping animals in need It was September 2011 when volunteer Jennifer Rose got the call to assist HSI/Canada in what would later be confirmed as the largest puppy mill seizure in Canadian history. “It was a lifechanging experience to see 570 dogs arrive at the shelter, truckload after truckload at all hours of the night,” she recounted.

Though the dogs ended up being at the shelter for three months, Jennifer continued to show up to volunteer; she had caught the volunteer bug, she said, after one of her first foster experiences, a puppy mill dog who was “terrified of everything when she arrived, and it broke my heart. When I read about the volunteers who helped get her out of that horrible place I knew I needed to find out how I could do that too. It’s been my mission ever since.”

The transformation of the rescued dogs is nothing short of miraculous. “I have seen animals come in that are terrified, anxious, thin, ill…and I get to see their personalities slowly emerge over time. I love when we get to take the dogs outside—many of them have never seen grass, or even been outside. At first they’re scared but then they start to relax enough to enjoy the feel of the sun and smell of the grass—it’s truly amazing! These milestones make my heart swell and I could not love them more.”

PHOTO MICHAEL BERNARD

DRACO SUBMITTED BY KRISTINA MCKENZIE

INSET PHOTO ESTRIE PUPPY MILL RESCUE/JO-ANNE MCARTHUR

Nearly 90 animals were rescued from a puppy mill in Quebec on June 16, 2015. The rescued animals include a variety of small breeds, including Yorkies and Bichon Frises.

Once removed from the premises, rescuers transported the animals to an emergency shelter where they received veterinary treatment and care from staff and volunteers.

INSET PHOTO FRANCIS VACHON/ AP IMAGES FOR HSI

Puppies saved during a large-scale dog rescue in Bonsecours, Quebec.

One of the puppies rescued by HIS.

The toughest job you’ll ever love To be clear, rehabilitating rescue dogs is much more than tummy rubs and playing fetch. Team leaders arrive at the emergency shelter at around 7:45 am and are letting dogs out for their morning walk by 8 am. When the dogs are outside, a volunteer will clean the cage and replace the cardboard that lines the floor. Depending on the dog and the state of his or her digestive tract, some enclosures can end up being more work to clean than others. You get the gist.

Once everyone is walked and had their cages cleaned, it’s feeding time. After some grub, the barking subsides and volunteers get busy mopping the floor and taking out the trash. A donated washer and dryer rumble along as a never-ending rotation of flannel doggie blankets and mop heads are cleaned for the umpteenth time. By the time noon rolls around you’ve already put in one helluva day… and it’s only half over. Then it’s more walking, more cage-cleaning, another meal, a good sweep and mop, then if there’s time, enrichment—that’s special one-on-one time where dogs get individual love and attention. One team leader even massages the dogs (when that leg starts going you know you hit the magic spot!).

Everyone has their own take on enrichment, and classic rock fans will no doubt delight in Jennifer’s unique brand of canine therapy. “There was a Husky who would try to make herself as

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small as she could at the back of her run because she was so overwhelmed and afraid. One day I went into her run with her and just sat on the floor, not looking at her. I started to sing to her, and the first thing that came to mind was “Stairway to Heaven.”

As I was singing I felt her get up and slowly approach me. She started to gently sniff my hair and clothes while I kept singing.

From that moment on she would come to me to take treats or let me put a leash on her to take her out for some fresh air. We had a special bond.”

So special, in fact, that she gave her new friend a special name—something to always remind Jennifer why she kept going back to help, day after day. “I named her Zeppelin.”

Flash-forward four years and Jennifer is at the airport awaiting a flight to go train other volunteers. She chokes up at the memory of some of the first dogs she helped. It dawns on her how far she’s come, and she says she feels privileged to be passing on her knowledge to others wishing to make a difference in the lives of animals who have, thus far, only known the worst of humanity.

“I tell people when I do these training sessions that it honestly changed my life. I’ve met the most incredible people, the most incredible animals; I’ve seen dogs go from having no life in their eyes to the beginning of a twinkle, a spark of hope… it’s opened up a whole new world to me. Anything I can do—whether it’s training volunteers or helping at the shelter—I want to do to make a difference and, in the process, make our world a better place for animals.” n

BREED PROFILE

The Collie The handsomest hero dog of them all

By Kelly Caldwell

MILD ED, NER MAN ED, & T DEVO WITH T GREA REN D CHIL

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Brave, loyal, and highly intelligent—is the Collie the dog for you?

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rave, loyal, and highly intelligent, the handsome Collie has been used as a herding dog in the highlands of Scotland and Northern England for centuries. But with origins that predate record keeping, the Collie’s earliest days of development are shrouded in mystery.

What we can say for certain is that the Collie’s stunning good looks seem to have happened rather accidentally. The Collie was bred for strength, agility, courage, and of course strong herding instinct. It just so happens that, somewhere along the way, this breed lucked out with striking good looks that truly set him apart from the rest of the herd, so to speak.

Experts point to the influence of a wide range of breeds that may have contributed to the Collie’s development—the Norwegian Elkhound, Eskimo Dogs, and even the tiny Pomeranian! It’s all up for debate, although it is widely accepted that the earliest Collies were closer in size and appearance to today’s Border Collie. In time, though, the Collie’s size grew—and so did his coat. Today, he comes in Rough- and Smooth-coated varieties; the two are identical with the exception of coat type.

The Collie lived out a simple existence, herding and droving— until he caught the eye of a certain dog-loving monarch; in the 1860s, Queen Victoria visited the highlands and became enchanted with Collies. Such was her influence that the Collie was nothing short of an overnight superstar. The breed was instantly in demand as a family companion.

Cross-the-pond popularity followed. The Collie Club of America was founded in 1886 and the breed made its first appearance at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 1877. But it wasn’t until the 1900s that the Collie’s status as a pop culture icon was sealed. Lad of Sunnybank, a bestseller detailing the heroic acts of a Collie was beloved by readers old and young alike. Next, Lassie. Yes, what is now a household word began with a short story written in 1938. That story served as the inspiration for the 1943 movie Lassie Come-Home and subsequent films. The

1950s TV series Lassie cemented the Collie’s image on a global scale as the smartest, bravest, most loyal and devoted animal on the planet. Hey, let’s face it, if you’ve watched a few episodes you know that, no matter what Timmy had gotten himself into—stuck in a well, lost in the woods, you name it—Lassie was never far away and she always saved the day.

But here’s the thing. Collie fanciers know it and believe it in their hearts: Lassie isn’t just an imaginary icon. This breed does possess all of those incredible qualities. The Collie is fiercely loyal, keenly intelligent, and many fanciers point to the breed’s innate ability to seemingly predict its guardians’ behaviour.

Today’s Collie is a medium-sized dog with almost perfect proportions from top to bottom. There’s nothing extreme about his appearance, although his head and expression are very distinctive—refined, brighteyed, and always alert.

According to the most recent AKC registration statistics The Smooth-Coated Collie [1] Labrador Retriever has a short, dense, coat. In [2] German Shepherd Dog contrast, the Rough-Coated Collie’s coat is long, harsh [3] Golden Retriever in texture, and abundant [4] Bulldog everywhere save the head and [5] Beagle legs. The breed comes in four [6] Yorkshire Terrier different coat colour variations.

[7] Poodle Sable is the most popular [8] Boxer (no doubt due to Lassie’s [9] French Bulldog appearance) but tri-colour, blue [10] Rottweiler merle, and white coat colours [35] Collie also exist and are accepted by the AKC. So is this herding breed a good option as a family pet? In a word, yes.

The Collie is mild-mannered, devoted to his guardians, and

Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.

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Profile: The Collie Size: Medium The Collie is a medium-sized dog. Females range from 22 to 24 inches at the withers, with males ranging from 24 to 26 inches.

Their weight can range between 50 to 70 pounds.

Activity level: The Collie has a great deal of athletic prowess and endurance.

He’ll be happy with daily walks, but he’ll thrive given the chance to participate in canine sports.

Grooming: Both varieties shed, but the Rough-Coated Collie will require more attention. Weekly brushing to avoid mats is a minimum.

Heritage: Herding Bred as a herding dog in the highlands of northern Scotland and England, over time the Collie became popular as a beloved family pet.

For info on Collie rescue in the U.S. visit collieclubofamerica.org/rescue.php. In Canada, visit collierescuenetwork.com.

If you like the Collie, you might also give some consideration to the the Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, and the Shetland Sheepdog.

Australian Shepherd

Border Collie

READ YOUR BREED

Shetland Sheepdog

For more breed profiles, go to moderndogmagazine.com/breeds

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notoriously good with children. As compared to some herding dogs, the Collie leans more to the quiet side—though if he has a reason to bark (like a stranger approaching the home), you’ll hear him loud and clear.

Hearty and strong he may be, but this gentle soul is not suited for outdoor living. He thrives in the home. If left alone for extended periods he will be unhappy, and will most likely act out by aggressive behaviour or excessive barking. He wants to be loved— so keep him close to your home and heart, and give him his due.

Ready to get out and have some fun? The Collie is up for most anything, so long as he’s with you. Given his heritage, it’s no surprise that the Collie is a natural at herding trials, but he’ll also thrive in activities such as obedience, agility, and tracking. And, with his sweet temperament and dashing appearance, the Collie has a true gift for therapy work.

Early training at the puppy stage is recommended to help socialize the Collie and establish acceptable boundaries for problems like pulling on-leash, jumping up on people, or excessive barking. Because the Collie is a sensitive soul, it is especially important that training be consistent and positive in nature. Treated and trained with kindness, the Collie will develop into the most handsome and well-mannered dog you’ll ever be lucky enough to love.

When it comes to health considerations, the Collie is a hearty dog, but like all purebreds he can be prone to some disorders, including Collie Eye Anomaly, which can be mild or cause blindness. The Collie Club of America established a health foundation in the 1980s, designed to help fanciers and the public in efforts to promote the good health of the breed. It’s also worth noting that Collies have some drug sensitivities, so be sure your veterinarian double-checks that any medications they prescribe are safe for Collies.

Given the legacy of Lassie, it wouldn’t be a stretch to call the Collie the most famous breed of all time. Collie enthusiasts will tell you that fame and notoriety are well deserved, because in their eyes there is simply not a finer, more noble, or more special breed out there. It’s hard to argue those points. Spend a little time with the gentle Collie and, odds are, you’ll find yourself in agreement. n

I N S E T I M A G E S ( F R O M L E F T ): R O B E R T Y O U N G ; © A K C ; © A K C

The Smoothcoated Collie

PHOTO ©AKC

I'm super sm art and devoted !

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WELLNESS

How to Use Touch Therapy to Heal Your Dog We asked energy practitioner and animal communicator Cindy Brody to share healing techniques you can try at home

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nergy work is easy and it can change your life. This may seem like an “out there” statement to some but if you think of how your mood, i.e. the energy you’re emitting, affects your day and those around you, you’ll recognize the truth of this statement. Having a bad day, a storm cloud over your head?

Chances are you’ll experience upset after upset: someone cuts you off, you stub your toe, spill your coffee, have heated words with a co-worker, step in dog poo. Why? The energy you’re giving off is simply creating more of the same for you. The opposite is also true: approach the day smiling and chances are you’ll be delivered up positive experiences. Now think of how your energy can and does affect your dog. Stands to reason you could harness this power, no?

Cindy Brody certainly knows this to be true. Cindy is an energy worker and an animal communicator who has been helping ani-

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mals with energy balancing her whole life, having discovered her special skill for communing with animals when she was just a child. Cindy has worked with thousands of dogs, helping them to feel better physically and mentally by using her fingers in a series of light, loving touch. This may sound simple but it can be transformative. And as Cindy asserts, we all have the ability to help our dogs heal using this technique., a modality she calls CinergE. “Just like people, dogs hold nervous tension in their bodies.”

Cindy says. “Tension causes pain and feeds insecurities, and can make a nervous dog even more distrusting. When the dog’s thoughts are honoured and their bodies are relaxed, healing begins.”

We asked Cindy to share her technique so you can practice on your dogs. Not only is it healing, it’s a great way to check in with your dog and also to bond.

PHOTO RIGHT FRANCO VOGT

Cindy Brody's How-to For Doing Energy Work On Your Dog: I start each session by sharing energy. It is easy. Energize your hands by rubbing them together, give a little clap, and then hold your hands about two inches apart. Do you feel the tingling in your hands? Do you feel warmth, a magnetic pull? You are feeling the energy. This is the easiest energy exercise and will give you great results.

Practice this at night on yourself; place your hands over your face and slowly move them down your body. You may notice that your hands get warm. By self-treating you will become a better channel.

And practicing on human friends can supply great feedback.

Now we’re ready to work on our dogs. Again, energize your hands then place them lightly on your dog’s body. I let my heart tell the energy to go anywhere in the dog's body that needs it. Let your intuition guide you.

Your dog may look at you as if to say, “Hey that’s different.” They may walk away and shake. We are unlocking blocked energy that causes tight muscles and energetic imbalances. When we achieve this unblocking we are creating energetic releases. When tight muscles loosen dogs will move.

Share the energy for ten minutes or for as long as they like. I often tell people to practice this on their dogs while they are sitting on the couch watching television.

Next we're going to work on the CinergE Energetic touch chart.

This is a beautiful exchange of energy between you and your dog.

It comes from your heart. I like to start on the left side of the body, the heart side.

First, start out by tracing little circles all over your dog’s skull.

Nervous dogs or rescue dogs often scrunch up their foreheads and the tension goes right down the neck, often resulting in headaches.

I always trust my intuition with every touch. Dogs will let you know when you have achieved an energetic release: they will yawn or they may get up and stretch out with a downward dog or a play bow. So if your dog gets up and walks away, let her. She is processing the changes. You can then call her back once she's ready.

The second touch is circles down the spine. Your pressure with each touch is ultra-light. Start at the base of the neck and circle slowly your way down to the hips. Pretend your finger is a laser and that you are releasing tension as you circle one vertebra at a time.

Step three, gently circle on either side of the spine all the way down to the hips. Anywhere your hand slows down you can send more energy by placing your hand on top of the area. If your hands get warm it means your dog's body is calling for more energy. It could be a tight muscle or a tender joint or an upset tummy. Place

your hands over the warm spot. If my hands get really hot I will hover my hands above the area and imagine I am pulling the heat out. This technique is great for inflammation and swellings.

Step four, circle over the hips. I always repeat circles over the hips while I’m working on a dog. The hips can be so tight and tender; this can really help the hips to stay loose as a dog grows older. If your dog bolts when you circle over the hips he is most likely sore there. Keep a notebook so you can remember exactly where your dog needs help.

Step four and five, circle lightly and slowly over the dog’s shoulder then work down the shoulders to the triceps, then down to the elbows. Place your fingers inside your dog’s armpit with your thumb on top, allowing the energy in your hands to relax the muscles.

Step six is the hamstrings. The touch is the same as that used on the triceps—fingers on the inside of the muscle between your dog’s legs, thumb on top. You can experiment with what is more comfortable for your dogs. If your dog is comfortable standing up, you can work with him while he’s upright. If your dog is lying down you will have to get him to roll over to treat both sides.

Step seven is the ribs, one of my favourite places to release.

Shelter dogs hold their breath and their ribs become painfully tight and can stay that way for years. Releasing the ribs can be life changing. Start by moving your fingertips about three inches away from the spine until you feel your dog's rib cage. Beginning right behind the shoulder blade, you're going to work your way to bottom of the rib cage. Lightly touch the space between each rib with your fore finger using a gentle touch. Don't poke; less pressure is better as this is energy work, not massage. Once you've made your way to the bottom of the ribcage, start from the top again but drop down a couple of inches lower so you're further away from the spine. Work your way to the bottom of the ribcage as before then repeat the process, dropping down a couple more inches until you complete a third crossing over of the ribs. Repeat on the other side.

This exercise will release tension in the ribs and is great for any dog that is stressed out or has a sore back. Last but not least, trace the ribs with your fingertips using light pressure to provide a clearing sweep.

Step eight, the sternum. Start beneath the neck and zigzag from one side of the sternum to the other all the way to the belly.

This work is simple and you will learn so much about your dogs when you practice it regularly. It’s important to remember that when dogs move around they are resetting their energy and releasing their blockages. You do not need to do a full session all at once.

In the beginning, your dog will process as he needs to and then he will beg you for more! n moderndogmagazine.com

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TRAINING

HOW TO INTRODUCE DOGS Making a good impression: 4 steps to successful dog introductions

By Teoti Anderson

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our average cocktail party has a variety of characters making an appearance. You’ve got the exuberant (some might say pushy) guy who acts like you’re his long-lost cousin, hugging you the second you meet. He spends the rest of the night invading your personal space. There’s the introvert, starting a conversation with the host’s cat rather than talk to any of the other guests. You might find a socialite, perfectly charming, fluttering among the guests like a sparkly vision, but never settling on anyone too long. There’s often the slightly tipsy attention-seeker, cracking jokes and gathering quite a crowd. And then you find some folks who truly hit it off, finding lots in common and developing a friendship.

For some reason, however, when it comes to dogs, many expect them to always be the popular life of the party, greeting their fellow canines with perfect grace and instant camaraderie.

But just because you get invited to a party doesn’t mean you’ll like everyone there. Why should our dogs? We can increase the odds of them getting along, though.

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Here are five steps to help make canine introductions go smoothly…

Make sure your dog really likes other dogs This first step is critical, especially if you are considering adding another dog to your home. Some dogs tolerate other dogs, but don’t necessarily enjoy their company. Other dogs simply do not like other dogs, and will act aggressively towards them. If your dog has any aggression towards other dogs, adding another dog to your household is not a good idea. Symptoms include barking and lunging, raised fur on the hackles, hard stares, and growling.

If this describes your dog, please seek professional help from a positive trainer. You may want a new dog, but your existing dog thinks otherwise. And an adorable puppy is not likely to “win your dog over.” If it turns out your dog really doesn’t want a canine buddy, he isn’t missing out. Your dog is telling you he doesn’t want a canine party. He wants to hang out with just you.

Make sure the dog you’re introducing is good with other dogs Whether you’re adding a new dog to the family or just introducing your dog to a potential playmate, always get the scoop on the other dog’s attitude towards his fellow canines.

Your dog may be friendly, but if the other dog isn’t, your dog could get hurt.

This is especially important if your dog is considerably smaller than the other dog. A large dog can easily hurt a smaller one should the introduction not go well. It’s not always due to aggression, either. An exuberant adolescent dog can squash his smaller cousin without meaning to hurt him. So do your research first and ask questions. Is the dog friendly towards other dogs? How many other dogs has he been around? What size other dogs? Were there any incidents? Know that some dogs are fine with other dogs until a prized item comes into play, such as food or a toy. It’s not a good party if someone ends up in the emergency room!

Start on neutral territory After your due diligence, it’s time to make introductions! Start with both dogs on leash, each with his own handler, on neutral territory. Be far enough apart so the dogs can easily see each other, but you can keep them safely apart.

Check each dog for friendly reactions, such as play bows or bouncing. Another friendly gesture is for a dog to lower himself, with ears back and a wiggly body. If the dogs hold their tails high, wagging, it’s not necessarily a friendly greeting. It’s a sign of high arousal and excitement. So if a dog’s body is stiff, tall, and he has a high, wagging tail, slow down the introduction.

As the dogs get used to each other, casually let them approach one another. Try to keep a loose leash—a tight leash can cause your dog to feel tense. Allow the dogs to smell each other for about five seconds then call them away from each other, praising when they return to their handlers.

If this meet-and-sniff goes well, take a walk with the dogs side by side, but several feet apart so you can intervene if necessary.

During the walk, watch the dogs’ body language for friendly interactions.

Take your time One of the biggest mistakes people make is rushing interactions.

Take it slow. Let the dogs’ behaviour tell you how they’re doing, but don’t trust them to make good choices. Sometimes you end up trapped at a party with someone who wasn’t quite what you expected, right? Dogs can sometimes start out ok, but then discover they actually are getting on each other’s nerves. You need to be an attentive host to ensure everything goes smoothly.

If you’ve added a new dog to your household, do not leave your dogs loose and unattended until they prove they will be safe together. This could take a month or more, and that’s ok. If your dogs are significantly different sizes, you may not be able to leave them unattended safely, perhaps ever. It depends on the individual dogs and their temperaments.

If this seems like a lot of work just to introduce a couple dogs, you’re right—but it’s worth it. Taking the time for safe introductions can help prevent hurt feelings and injuries. Come to think of it, it might be a good plan for better cocktail parties, too! n

Teoti Anderson, CPDT, owns Pawsitive Results (getpawsitiveresults.com) and is the past president of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, as well as the author of Your Outta Control Puppy, Super Simple Guide to Housetraining, Quick and Easy Crate Training, and Puppy Care and Training.

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Connie’s Book Club From left Miss Moon: Wise Words from a Dog Governess; Old Faithful: Dogs of a Certain Age

Curl up with a good dog and a good book

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CONNIE WILSON’S SELECTION OF THIS SPRING'S MUST-READS.

Miss Moon: Wise Words from a Dog Governess

By Janet Hill It is simply impossible not to be delighted by Miss Moon. With charm in spades, this picture book pairs author and illustrator Janet Hill’s elegantly whimsical artistry with her winning narrative about a dog governess' first placement, on a small island off the coast of France. There Miss Moon cares for 67 dogs of all shapes, sizes, colours, and personalities, resulting in the 20 most valuable lessons shared in this book. Some lessons are practical, some playful, and some a bit unusual, but all offer wisdom on growing up happy, healthy and well-mannered, the advice pertaining to kids, adults, and dogs alike. Our personal favourite: “Be true to your adventurous spirit.” This book is sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of all who read it.

The Pug List: a Ridiculous Little Dog, a Family Who Lost Everything, and How They All Found Their Way Home

By Alison Hodgson This heartwarming true story concerns a family who, after losing everything in a fire set by an arsonist, pick up the pieces of their life with the help of a wheezing, un-housetrained rescue Pug. The family’s sense of security tops the list of things lost in the fire, and though adopting a former puppy mill dog while in the process of rebuilding from the ground up may seem like a questionable idea at best, it turns out to be exactly what this family needs. An immensely likable story about family in all its forms and the joy and even blessings to be found in life’s struggles.

Mountain Tails

By Janne Siegel In this collection of animal interviews, Janne Siegel unearths some surprising details about the Routt County Pets. Food fetishes, pet-peeves, even advice for animals moving into their new forever homes—it’s all here in this amusing peek into the minds of these pets. The generous animal interviewees chose to forgo payment and have instead requested that a portion of the proceeds be donated to the Humane Society, so your copy supports animal rescue. moderndogmagazine.com

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Earnest

By Kristin von Kreisler

From Miss Moon: Wise Words From a Dog Governess

Practical Handbook of Veterinary Homeopathy

By Wendy Thacher Jensen, D.V.M. The Practical Handbook of Veterinary Homeopathy: Healing Our Companion Animals from the Inside Out is a handbook for any animal guardian who would like to avoid, reduce, or eliminate their animal’s dependence on medication. The author, long time veterinarian Wendy Jensen, was inspired to change her veterinary medicine practice after seeing the very real results yielded by a homeopathic approach to healing. This essential guide teaches you how to observe and evaluate your dog (or cat) and share these findings with your vet so you can work together to keep your special companion healthy.

Old Faithful: Dogs of a Certain Age

By Pete Thorne In this heart-string-tugging collection of photographs and stories, photographer Pete Thorne captures the beauty of dogs who are well loved and well on in years. Old Faithful: Dogs of a Certain Age was born when Thorne started photographing older dogs only to discover that their faces contained more life, joy, and wisdom than he had anticipated. In this beautiful book Thorne gives each dog the space to tell his or her individual story. The resultant 75 stories and photos of puppy mill rescues, adoption triumphs, and lifelong friends are a lovely tribute to our most stalwart companions, reminding us just how special our aging pals are.

Forever Home

Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Very Good, Very Bad Dog

By April Spaniol

By Amy Newmark

In this charming children's book, Pico the Greyhound receives some shocking news: she’s headed to a new home. Change can be so scary!

But Pico learns how to live in a new place, meets a new friend, and discovers what it means to be truly home. Share this lovely book with the children in your life and show them change, though sometimes frightening, can be a force for good.

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This richly insightful novel of matters of the heart—both human and canine—tells an uplifting story of love, loyalty, and new beginnings. Earnest, a sweet, eager-to-please yellow Labrador Retriever, is adopted from a shelter by Anna and Jeff. The happy threesome bond instantly, but when Jeff makes a decision that loses Anna’s trust, it’s up to Earnest to bring the three of them back together. A great read for all those who know the power of pets!

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Our dogs are complex creatures and sometimes their bizarre behaviour is so amusing it warrants a wider audience. Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Very Good, Very Bad Dog is a collection of 101 funny, heartwarming, and sometimes mind-boggling stories about our best friends and their (mis)adventures. You'll laugh, cry, and probably want to give your special pal a hug! n

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BOTHERED AND BEWILDERED? CRAZED AND CONFUSED? IF YOUR DOGGIE DILEMMA HAS YOU DOWN IN THE DUMPS…

ask dog lady

by Monica Collins

Q

Dear Dog Lady, Oscar, my Bearded Collie has very, very long fur. Every two weeks he is groomed professionally to keep him looking smart but in between sessions he looks very unkempt as he loves to play in the mud with his doggie friend Tess. The other day the groomer found a dead frog hidden in his coat! She has also found burrs and bits of bushes and trees. My question: Should I restrict his exercise so he gets less filthy? He seems happy enough, although I have to say my husband isn't terribly pleased about the amount of foliage our dog regularly imports into the house.

Free and filthy? Or confined and pristine? Is there a happy medium?

—Beverley, Portland, OR

A

In the “Ask Dog Lady” playbook, filth and frogs are fantastic. Dogs should be allowed to get down and dirty and revel in the muck they love so dearly. They are not porcelain figurines and they must be allowed to wallow with the best of them—in this case, doggie friend Tess.

However, it might create more harmony

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in your home if you occasionally monitor his play dates with Tess. Oscar doesn't have to roll in the mud every day. You can control his access to muck by choosing a less dirty play locale or, barring that, by keeping him on a leash and hence away from the mud pit. After he's been a pristine little angel for a day or two, allow your dog his mud flings with Tess in the shrubbery.

You might keep some doggie wet wipes— available at larger pet supply stores—to wipe him down outside or in the foyer (or in the mud room if you're lucky enough to have one) before he shakes off the frogs and foliage.

Dear Dog Lady, Blue, my Australian Shepherd puppy, really has been incredible. Yesterday was an almost perfect day with her. We had a great walk in the morning. Later, we went to the vet and she was really good. Afterward, we stopped off at a field where people bring their dogs to play off-leash. I figured all the dogs would freak her out but she loved it and after a few minutes I let her off-leash and she never wandered off. She was so good.

Yet, in some ways, I wish we'd never

gotten her. I'm not a big fan of keeping a dog crated so I give her free rein when I work at home, although this means I have to keep constant tabs on her. I know it's just a matter of time before she chews something she's not supposed to, so I have to be vigilant. And I know the cold weather is coming and I dread taking her for walks in that. At night, I don’t sleep well because she can't always make it through the night without a trip outside so I'm constantly listening.

I think overall I'm feeling is a sense of loss and isolation. I loved the care-free life my partner Brian and I had before we got the dog. Now everything has to revolve around Blue. Is this a normal reaction/period of adjustment? I absolutely adore her, but I wish she were already two-years-old and all the routines were established.

—David, Cleveland, OH A: Dog Lady calls it “post-poochum depression”—the helpless feeling after you’ve committed yourself to a creature totally dependent on you for survival and there’s no escape from the relationship. When you are a new dog owner and you reckon with how your pet might restrict your life, you

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ask dog lady can feel that sense of panic.

Here’s the good news: the feelings are totally normal. All of us—yes, including Dog Lady, have felt them. These bad vibes will eventually go away. Once you bond with Blue, you will feel a connection that only deepens over time. Promise.

Dear Dog Lady, My Shih Tzus, sisters, are two years old. I don't think they will ever tell me when they have to go out. I take them out on a regular schedule and that works most of the time. But they don't seem to tell me when they have to go out. I have them in large wire crate at night or when I am gone.

When I am not looking, if they have to go pee, they just go.

I only found this out when I cleaned my carpet. I even have Poochie Bells [bells designed for dogs to ring when they need to go out—Ed.].) I do watch for signs so I can catch them but they are sneaky.

I have a large, unfenced yard so have to keep these two dogs on a leash. (Occasionally when I am out with them I let them run which they love to do.) I have wondered if it is the leash thing. Maybe if I just opened the door and let them go out, they would get the hang of it then. I am wondering if it is in the breeding somehow. I am about to give up. And getting the pee smell out of the carpets is impossible.

—HollyBelle, South Salem, NY A: One of the most important lessons you can learn from a dog is patience. Study the entire letter above as it zigs and zags about potty-training two dogs. If you make it through the whole question, you will have a sense of how not to potty-train dogs in general. The questioner has tried a little this, a little that, thrown in some bells and leashes. No wonder these adorable dogs continue to go on the carpet. You would go on the carpet too if you were confused about the location of the toilet. These Shih Tzus have not been properly trained.

Sorry to use your letter as an example of bad training but many frustrated readers can learn from your example. You must go back to Page One in the manual. Keep the dogs in their crate (or tether them to you so you can watch them at all times) and let them out only to do their business. When they pee or poop outdoors, reward them liberally and praise them to the heavens. Make sure they have completed these basic steps and are dependable about going outside before you give them the run of the house or even their large wire enclosure. And, by the way, learning to ring bells to go outside is very advanced graduate study for very welltrained dogs. You and your dogs have to keep working at it. And, remember, patience.

Want more? Read Dog Lady's new blog at askdoglady.com.

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LAST LICK

How I Met My Dog

By Karlos Dillard Photograph by Michael Swartz

“

M

any people are aware of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), usually associating the disorder with serving with the Armed Forces, but my story is a little different. I was an abused foster child my whole childhood and, in my adult life, I struggle with depression and have very bad days. In July, I went to the Humane Society just to look, not really intending on adopting a pet. After a couple of visits with a few dogs, I saw a little guy all by himself in a corner while all the other others were barking or jumping for attention. He reminded me of myself so much! I asked to see his file and read that he had been very abused in the puppy mill he had been rescued from. He did not trust humans and was very depressed. I made the decision to adopt him even after I was told we probably wouldn't be a good fit, seeing as I had wanted a happy dog. I named him Oliver after Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, the orphan no one wanted but made something of himself! Today, Oliver and I run a small animal business, pawprintpopup.com, and we give the profits to those who desperately want a pet but can’t afford the adoption fee. I want others who suffer from PTSD and other mental illnesses to know the love and support that can come from your pet!

”

Karlos and Oliver (If you’re on Instagram you can follow the adventures of this dapper duo through their Instagram account @olivergreyson.)

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