Modern Dog Spring 2008

A Breed Apart

Golden Retrievers are known for their long golden coat, but among vets, they are known for “hot spots”, lesions that can develop on the skin. Golden Retriever 25 diet is specifically formulated with a synergistic complex of B vitamins and amino acids, along with biotin, folic acid, selenium and high levels of vitamins A & E to strengthen and protect the skin.

Antioxidants for Mental Alertness Golden Retrievers are extremely intelligent and learn easily. Feeding Golden Retriever 25 diet, which contains optimal levels of antioxidants like lutein, taurine, green tea polyphenols and vitamins E & C, will help to keep your Golden Retriever’s mind sharp as it ages.

L-carnitine and Antioxidants Golden Retrievers are big-hearted dogs - that’s part of what makes them the ideal family dog. But those ”big hearts“ are prone to hereditary heart conditions like cardiomyopathy. Omega essential fatty acids and amino acids, like taurine, L-carnitine and arginine in Golden Retriever 25 diet work together to protect the heart.

Specially engineered kibble to curb overeating.

Plus, sodium tripolyphosphate promotes dental health by helping to reduce the formation of plaque and tartar.

Actual Size

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Learn about your Golden Retriever!

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1-800-527-2673

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Tailor-made health nutrition for your Golden Retriever

How to reduce your dog’s eco footprint

Ellen!

“I’m the most honest person you will ever meet— to a fault.”

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

Synergistic Nutrient Complex for Healthy Skin

SPRING 2008

Exclusive

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The Golden Retriever is a unique breed that needs tailor-made nutrition to meet its specific requirements.

The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions SPRING 2008

Coat of gold, heart of gold

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More Free Stuff

WHEN GOOD DOGS GO BAD

COOL FINDS UNDER $20

Angel’s Gate Down-on-theirluck dogs find peace, love, and a place to call home

Running Naked

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DOGBOOK STUFF WE LOVE SOLUTIONS FOR THE DOGLESS DRESS YOUR DOG ASK DOG LADY

Agility takes off moderndogmagazine.com

DISPLAY UNTIL JUNE 08 CDN$5.95 US$4.95

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Frame: Marilyn Muttroe (large) with Pooch Diddy Bada Bling Bones Swarovski ® Finish: Asphalt Cushion: Leopard Combo Model: Lulabell (rescue dog)

Why shouldn’t their furniture make a statement like yours?

CANINE & KITTY COUTURE FOR THE

HOME WWW

.URBANBONE.COM

SPRING 2008

FEATURES 31

Have Your Dog Dogbook Mine With the addition of a new dog-focused application, Facebook just got sooo much more addictive.

BY MARY-JO DIONNE

40

Running Naked An agility primer. BY PATRICIA KOMAR

46

What Lies Beneath When good dogs go bad. BY COREY VAN’T HAAFF

51

Cool Finds Under $20 Get your budget back on track with this round-up of products as easy on the eyes as they are on the pocket book.

70

Ellen!

PHOTO ANDREW ECCLES

Ellen DeGeneres on rescuing coyotes, blazing trails, and mouth-to-mouth on a sparrow.

BY MARY-JO DIONNE

82

The Modern Dog’s Guide to Montréal Where to shop, eat, stay, and play.

BY LAURA POTTER

88

Angel’s Gate Down-on-their-luck dogs—the homeless elderly, injured, special needs—find peace, love, and a place to call home. BY SHAINA FISHMAN

96

Astromutts Dogs in space.

BY STANLEY COREN

STYLE 39 Dress Your Dog Solving fashion crises one dog at a time.

52 Spring Semester PHOTOGRAPHED BY EYDIS EINARSDOTTIR

81 Doggie Styles

PHOTO EYDIS EINARSD OTTIR

Fun stuff for feisty pups.

93 Chien Chic The coolest finds for your canine cutie.

142 Last Lick PHOTOGRAPHED BY EYDIS EINARSDOTTIR

WE think their meals should be made with the same care as your meals. We’re funny that way. For twenty years, we’ve cooked complete

“A man’s soul can be judged by the way he treats his dog.”

– Charles Doran

{

and balanced recipes for Spot’s Stew. Only all-natural butcher -quality meat, chicken or wild salmon along with farm -fresh vegetables and

grains are used for optimal nutrition and digestibility. Then we add vitamins and minerals, not fillers or by - products.

There are no compromises in anything with the Halo name on it.

Halo. The care we owe them.

TM

WET & DRY FOOD | TREATS | SUPPLEMENTS | GROOMING AIDS © 2008 HALO PURELY FOR PETS

LIVING 12 Stuff We Love Modern Dog staffer’s picks of the litter.

16 Dog Trick!

Teach your dog to clean house (seriously).

BY ANDREA ARDEN

22 Pup Profiles 25 Calendar Your date book for spring’s most happening events.

29 Smile!

The modern dog photo contest.

95 Art Attack EMMA 1©2005/DE BO RAH S AMU E L

BY MARNI WEDIN

34

103 D.I.Y. Make a braided hemp collar and leash.

BY ELIZABETH KEMP

105 Connie’s Book Club Modern Dog Editor-in-Chief’s book selections for just-can’t-put-it-down reading.

109 Ask Dog Lady Dog Lady delves into your most dogged dilemmas.

BY MONICA COLLINS

115 The Party Herbs + happy brownies = far out afternoon for your hippie hound.

116 Pup Your Ride

BREED PROFILE

85

34 The German Shorthaired Pointer The “everyuse dog.” BY MARIAN BUECHERT

BODY AND SOUL 58 Dog Myths and Maybes

123 The Fab Five Get answers, now! Top trainers answer your questions.

REGULAR FEATURES 6 8 10 14 128 138 140

Editor’s Letter Contributors Our Readers Write The Scoop Marketplace Giveaways Horoscopes

Dispelling dogged myths.

62 Back to Basics Make your own natural flea spray, chemical-free carpet deodorizer, and nutrient boosting, good-for-you-andyour-dog sprouts.

65 Ask an Animal Psychic

BY JOY TURNER

67 Dr. Dog’s Dinner-time Dictionary

COVER LOOK Ellen DeGeneres and Wolf, photographed by Andrew Eccles. Makeup, Agostina for Cloutieragency.com; hair, Robert Lopez; and styling, Kellen Richards.

BY ELIZABETH KEMP

4 moderndog

SPRING 2008

In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 7, Issue 1. Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at 357 Martin St., Suite C, PO Box 1419, Blaine, WA 98231-1419.

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

Mom, do you know they’re putting animal by-products in my food?

Most dog foods contain animal by-products and things you’d never feed your family.

You’ll be surprised to know that many leading dog food brands use animal by-products, glutens and artificial preservatives while BLUETM uses only the finest natural ingredients — the kind you feed your own family. Plus, only BLUE contains LifeSource® Bits for an extra measure of protection. Learn the truth about what’s in your dog’s food at www.BlueForDogs.com.

Is your brand as healthy as BLUE? Your Brand

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Deboned Chicken, Fish or Lamb is the FIRST Ingredient Wholesome Whole Grains Garden Veggies & Fruit LifeSource® Bits All Natural* NO ANIMAL BY-PRODUCTS NO CORN, WHEAT OR SOY PROTEIN GLUTEN-FREE *Fortified with vitamins and minerals.

Compare the ingredients of your dog’s food to BLUE™ at www.BlueForDogs.com. ©2008 Blue Buffalo Co., Ltd.

Be TRUE. Feed BLUE.™

PHO TO LI N DS E Y DO N O VA N

ED ITO R ’S LE T T E R

I

n the past several years, there’s been much discussion of the growing popularity of dogs. Almost every major paper’s weekend edition seems to have some canine coverage, much of it devoted to how and why people are pampering their pets, with most, by way of explanation, settling on a fact we can all readily attest to—dogs are cherished members of the family.

It wasn’t until recently, though, that I consciously recognized an even deeper reason we hold our dogs dear: our dogs are assisting us in our spiritual evolution. Though this may, on the surface, cause some to scoff, it is rather easily explained thus: dogs help us see and feel life through our hearts and souls rather than through our “thinking” minds.

In so doing, we feel connected with all life, a spiritual awakening begins, and the pathway of enlightenment starts to unfold before us. If you pause for a moment to reflect upon this, I’m sure you’ll see the truth to these words. As New York Times bestselling Power of Now author Eckhart Tolle said in an interview with MD (Fall 07), “They show us what we have lost and, once we realize that, they can help us in our shift into a deeper state of consciousness.”

What we have lost is the ability to just Be, without judging, which, according to Tolle, is “beyond mind” and is “the innermost core.” We all have a basic need to relate deeply to another being, but many of us in modern society feel alienated from others. Our dogs step in, filling that role.

They don’t judge us, so we can openly show them our love and that love is always reciprocated. If you follow Fido’s example and practice acceptance of the moment, you’ll find yourself celebrating life and experiencing the joy of being centered in the “Now.” Who knows? As this celebration of life spreads, perhaps we’ll be responsible for creating a new and kinder world. [To read the Eckhart Tolle interview, go to moderndogmagazine.com/tolle.]

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SPRING 2008

So how fitting that we should have Ellen DeGeneres, the queen of “nice” comedy, on the cover, embodying the spirit of this issue. To quote our cover girl: animals “are the closest thing to God.” Not only is Ellen a devoted animal guardian and committed to rescue, she is also a brilliant comedian, trail blazer, and good sport—although she was so ill she cancelled shows, she still opened her home to us and trooped through the MD photo shoot, smiling. And, in case you’re wondering, the sincere, kind, quirky, and funny Ellen you see on screen is just as genuine off-screen. I feel truly honoured to have met her, along with partner, Portia, mom, Betty, and their three dogs and three cats, at home in Ellen and Portia’s beautiful and serene hideaway in Beverly Hills.

Just like the season, you’ll find our spring issue bursting with life. With a focus on getting healthy, you can learn how to make an all-natural flea spray and a chemical-free carpet deodorizer and grow nutrient-rich sprouts (p 68); learn to read the labeling on the dog food you purchase; and find out how to reduce your dog’s eco footprint.

If you and your dog are itching (not literally, I hope) to find a sport you can participate in together, turn to “Running Naked” (p 40) for the low-down on agility.

Planning a vacation get-away? Our city guides continue, this time stopping in historic Montréal. We bet it will have both you and Fifi practicing your Français while dreaming of romantic sidewalk cafés and warm croissants (p 82). The pooches in the colourful pictorial “Spring Semester” will no doubt bring back memories of “characters” from your own school days (p 58). Unleash your inner flower child by flipping to page 115 and start planning a party inspired by the sixties (complete with Happy Brownies), then make your own hemp dog collar (p 103), before jolting yourself back into the 21st century by logging some time on Dogbook—the Facebook for dogs (p 31).

From the coolest and trendiest dog products out there to the sound advice of our Fab 5 trainers, we hope you’ll find this spring issue an entertaining and indispensable guide to all things Dog. Peace and Love,

Connie Wilson, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief “I believe that dogs fill a vital function in the collective consciousness of humanity. I would call them: the Guardians of Being.”—Eckhart Tolle, Modern Dog, Fall 07

CO N T R IB UT OR S SPRING 2008 Publisher

Shaina Fishman is a freelance photographer based in New York City.

When not in the studio photographing dogs and cats or donating her time and talents to various animal shelters and organizations, she can be found with her Papillion, Cosmo.

Always ready for adventure, Shaina frequently travels nationally and internationally in search of beautiful locales and animals to photograph. From small towns in Spain to villages in Kenya, she has yet to visit a place where dogs are not present. Shaina’s latest travels brought her to Delhi, New York, to photograph the animals at Angel’s Gate animal hospice for a photo editorial feature for Modern Dog (page 91). For more of Shaina’s work visit shainafishman.com.

Modern Dog Inc. Connie Wilson Jennifer Nosek Marian Buechert Jennifer Nosek

Circulation Manager

Jessica Nosek

Design & Production

Carolyn Howse

Manager, Advertising/Sales

Brielle Morgan

Marketing & Administration Sales & Marketing Subscription Services & Accounting Assistant Controller Web Consultant

Elizabeth Kemp Elizabeth Gardiner Ariel Castillo Cecilia de Roca Chan Dave Egan

Web Design Intern

Maggie Chok

Donations Program Liaison

Jessica Nosek

Okanagan Representative

Jytte Wilson

Subscription inquiries call (800) 417-6289 Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 In Canada: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 7, 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 7, Issue 1. Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at 357 Martin St., Suite C, PO Box 1419, Blaine, WA 98231-1419.

Periodicals postage paid at Blaine, WA and additional offices.

POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402 PHONE

(604) 734-3131

OR TOLL FREE FAX

Writer Mary Jo Dionne has worked as an advertising copywriter on North America’s biggest brands, picking up her fair share of awards along the way. A finalist for Vancouver’s Funniest New Female Comedian and Vancouver’s Funniest Person with a Day Job, Mary-Jo has heard her writing described as “a masterpiece of urban satire that will have you laughing so hard you’ll glow.” On the not-so-funny side, her article “Puppy Hell: A puppy mill exposé” garnered her the 2007 Maxwell Award for Best Feature Article. She is the founder of TheFleasKneesTees.com, a sassy line of tees for human dog-moms, created in an effort to help fund no-kill animal rescue. In this issue, Mary-Jo speaks with her long-time comedic and animal-loving mentor, Ellen DeGeneres (page 70), and learns firsthand that it actually is possible to give mouth-to-mouth to a bird.

(A sparrow, not a hummingbird.)

NO 1

Editor

Creative Director

based in the Vancouver, B.C. area.

Originally from Colorado, she studied the arts in New York, psychology in Chicago, and has made her home on the Pacific coast of Canada, where she combines art and psychology as an expressive arts therapist.

Her canine buddies keep her active in such things as flyball, agility, earthdogging, hiking, and swimming the lakes of Beautiful British Columbia. For the spring issue of Modern Dog, Patricia introduces us to the world of agility (page 40).

VOL 7

Editor-in-Chief

Contributing Editor

Patricia Komar is a freelance writer

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(866) 734-3131

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

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.

Copyright 2008 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. Oneyear subscription prices: Canada $18CAD, U.S.A. $15USD, 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

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10%

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SPRING 2008

Cert no. SW-COC-1506

“Max”-imum Care

Write to us!

Your Fall 2007 issue reminded us of how life is full of ironies. The article “Special Treatment” resonated with us in a very special way. In April this year, our dog, Max, went from well to hanging on to life

Modern Dog welcomes correspondence from all readers.

O U R RE ADE R S W R IT E Warm & Fuzzy Every time I finish reading your magazine, I always feel a little warmer and a little fuzzier inside. This was definitely the case after reading “Guardian Angel” (Winter 07/08). Having two rescue dogs myself, I have always believed that my babies were aware of their plight in the shelter and, in turn, knew that I rescued them from death. They have given me the greatest gift in return: the unconditional love of a dog. Thank you so much for bringing such moving pieces to your magazine. It truly warms my heart.

Jami Croslow, Sinajana, Guam ■ I just received my first issue of your magazine and I love it! The subscription was a gift from my sister. My beloved Goldie, a yellow Lab, passed a few weeks ago and it’s been very difficult living without her. I found comfort in your articles, “Good Grief” and “Guardians of Being” (Fall 07). I miss her so much and I’m lost without her. Thank you for print-

10 moderndog

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PHO TO CO N TE S T WIN N E R! KA S PE R & KA T,

BY RITA VE TS CH, MO N TICE L L O , MN

■ For my birthday, my children bought me four of the most popular dog magazines. I was told to choose the magazine I liked the best and they would buy the subscription. It took me several days to read the four magazines, but your magazine was by far the best choice for me. Today, I received my first issue in the mail and it was like celebrating my birthday all over again. Modern Dog is the best! Thanks Daniel-Taylor, Elly, and Emily for my great birthday present.

Jill Wells, Georgetown, KY

by a thin thread in a matter of hours. He suffered a pancreatic attack that found us making our way from our regular vet to the emergency vet hospital to the Canada West Critical Care Hospital late on a Saturday night. We were scared and confused about how so much could have gone wrong in such a short period of time.

Everyone we dealt with at the hospital was not only professional, but caring.

They were respectful and helped us through a few tough days. Against all odds, our guy made it. No one could have had better treatment than Max received and all delivered with genuine affection and care. There are no words to express our thanks to the entire team.

What makes this article particularly special is that Max, our Miniature Schnauzer, is in the Fall issue. He is one of the dogs included in the “Generation Arf” fashion spread. Without the very special people at Canada West, we would not be the proud companions of our guy shown on page 63. Thanks to everyone who took such good care of Max. Geraldine Vance and Phillip George, by email

ing such a warm and loving magazine dedicated to dogs and the people that love them.

Susan A. Dell’Osso, River Vale, NJ

Address letters to Modern Dog Letters, 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1A4, Canada, or email us at letters@moderndogmagazine.com. If correspondence is by email, please tell us where you are writing from. All letters are subject to editing.

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STUFF WE LOVE

$

Modern Dog staffers’ picks of the litter 1 Meet your new dog-walk companion. YMYL Holster is a clever new accessory that holds pocket paraphernalia or replaces your purse. Think classic suspenders, but super-functioning, with the addition of a holster leaving your hands free. Ergonomically designed to lay flush to your side, even when holding your iPod, cell, dollars, keys, dog cookies, or requisite plastic bags, and cut from Italian leather in brown or black, this just may be your new best friend, but with better fashion sense.—Jennifer ($129, ymylholster.com)

2 Spring is in the air and it’s time for me to emerge from hibernation and get out there—out to the dog park to stare longingly at other people’s pups. To properly stalk the dog park, you need the appropriate gear: a bag of treats, a super-soft tee from Barkology (they also have caps if you want to hide your face) and a trench coat (optional).—Liz ($46, barkology.com)

BM

3 I heart Wild Bite’s Organic Buffalo Minis. The bite-sized, bone-shaped treats are all-natural, super-delicious,

$ %

and just the right size.—Esther, Miniature Dachshund and treat connoisseur ($7, wildbites.com)

4 Hitting the links? Flaunt your love of dog and protect your woods with JP Lann’s dog-themed golf head covers. The longneck head cover sits properly on woods up to 450cc and comes in an assortment of lifelike breeds.

—Connie ($35, jplann.com)

BL

5 Mark Derr’s fascinating book, A Dog’s History of America, tells how our best friends contributed to the exploration, settlement, and social history of North America. Open at any page and you’ll find a nugget of dog trivia good for any social occasion.—Marian ($11, amazon.com) 6 If you’ve made the switch to organic, maybe it’s time your dog joined you. Castor and Pollux makes it easy with their Go Organic Kit. It includes a complete food set, from their organic Adult Canine Formula to their delicious chicken dog treats, in a reusable storage container. Everything your hungry dog needs to start his organic lifestyle!—Ariel ($16, castorpolluxpet.com)

7 I’m loving this wool bag from A Cheerful Pet. The little dog has that “so ugly I’m cute” thing going on.

Moreover, profits from the sale of this bag go towards providing food, shelter, and education for children in the PUMA orphanage of Nepal. And you can thank Patty, one of the orphans, for this bag’s design.—Brielle ($27, acheerfulpet.com)

8 Bark, Yip, Ruff, Bark, Bark. Sometimes it’s hard to find the right words… Sincerely Fido has a great variety of sweet and funny cards that will do the barking for you.—Lisi ($4, sincerelyfido.com)

9 Support indigenous trades. Hand-made by Peruvian craftspeople, this sweet alpaca “Happy Walks” dress from Alqo Wasi makes me smile.—Carolyn ($55, alqowasi.com)

10 My dog, my meat, my artist.—Jessica ($39, kenbailey.com) 11 I love my whale bowl from Melia Luxury Pet. I like knowing that these bowls are made locally in Atlanta, Georgia, each one signed by the artist (mine even came personalized with my name on it). That’s right, I’m a dog with a conscience. Show your support for local business by choosing from over 100 designs in the Signature Line. ($42, melialuxurypet.com). —Olly ($42, melialuxurypet.com).

&

( * 12 moderndog

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^

• ALL-NEW Digital Restoration • ALL-NEW Virtual Dalmatians Game – Adopt, Train And Play With Your Very Own Puppy

• ALL-NEW Pop-Up Trivia Facts • Deleted Songs • And Much, Much More

FIRST TIME OUT OF THE DISNEY VAULT THIS DECADE MARCH 4 • LIMITED TIME 101DALMATIANSDVD.COM Distributed by Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, Burbank, CA 91521.

Disney’s FastPlay. Patent Pending. © Disney

THE SCOOP

CANINE NEWS AND REVIEWS

Fitness tips from the Family Dog The shuttle run. Place two piles of five stuffy toys 6 meters apart whilst conjuring an image of your dog racing up and down the hallway between toys. Now, starting from a racing crouch, shuttle yourself, at maximum speed, between the two piles, picking up a toy from one pile and dropping at the other end, until all toys have switched position. If your dog is a Border Collie, have him work the stop watch.

The morning speed-walk. Lace up your trainers and hit the pavement. Use hand or ankle weights or, taking literal inspiration from your dog, a stick carried by mouth to up the exercise quotient.

What’s that, László? Tamás fell down the well?

Hungarian computer decodes barking

Doga. This is yoga, inspired by and practiced

A computer in Hungary speaks Dog. Yes, it’s true. Scientists at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest have used new software to study acoustic communication among animals. After recording over 6,000 dog barks from 14 Hungarian sheepdogs in six different situations—“stranger,” “fight,” “walk,” “alone,” “ball,” and “play”—they tested the software’s ability to solve problems in a fixed number of steps using a machine learning algorithm to identify and differentiate barks.

In the first experiment, the computer analyzed the dogs’ barks, then sorted them into one of the six potential situations. The software accurately classified just under half of the barks, with “fight” and “stranger” correctly recognized most often and “play” the most incorrectly recognized. These findings suggest that—you may want to take a seat—a dog’s bark will sound different if he is being aggressive, submissive, or playful.

The second experiment went on to prove what is generally assumed in the dog world: that although human ears may not be able to distinguish the “voice” of Poodle A from Poodle B, dogs’ barks do indeed vary from individual to individual.

Had the software been generating answers by chance, it would have been correct only 17 percent of the time, but it vastly outdid itself by coming in at 43 percent and 52 percent correct for the first and second experiment, respectively. So, yes, a computer can now tell you what your dog wants; however, if it came down to pitting Owner against Computer, we’d say the Owner is a far safer bet for recognizing what her dog is trying to tell her, and, in fact, recognizing that, yes, that is her dog speaking. This may be one job a computer can’t do better than a human, so back off, Mac. —Elizabeth Kemp

Even if you have only a few minutes at your disposal, you can make a quick one block circuit. Try and mimic your dog’s joyous steps and you may just forget you’re exercising.

with your dog. Position of Choice? Downward Dog, of course. Namaste.

Jog a Dog (or the Once-Around-the-Block).

Take the stairs. Pretend that you, like your dog, lack the ability to summon the elevator and take the stairs. Stair Master ain’t got nothin’ on the flights up to the office—you can mount those for free!

A computer can now tell you what your dog wants.

SP RING 2008

open the door and say hello when you can make visitors feel really welcome and burn calories by running in circles? Barking and crotch-sniffing optional.

ILLUSTR ATION JESS GOLDEN

14 moderndog

Greet guests with enthusiasm. Why just

© 2008 The Iams Co.

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I have two things on my to-do list:

to play and to play.

I am more than just a dog.

I am an

Iams dog

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THE SCOOP DOG TRICK

Teach your dog to clean house

By Andrea Arden

Solutions for the Dogless Apartment’s too small? Boyfriend’s allergic? Perhaps just not down with de-pooping the backyard? Whatever the reason, if you or someone you know is simply not ready to become a full-time dog parent, peruse the following list of alternatives for people looking to cram some dog-time into an otherwise (sniff) dogless existence.

1. Dog-sit. Got a friend-with-dog? Make his/her day with a homemade coupon book that offers ten free dog-sits. Later, if you wish to expand your client roster and turn this into a paying gig, consider registering with Pet Sitters International, a great resource for would-be petsitters and those seeking sitting alike. petsit.com 2. Get a gard(en) dog. Perfect for green thumbs, grandparents, and backyard and/or Chia Pet enthusiasts, Green Piece Wire Art makes life-sized, moss-filled wire frames in the shape of your favourite dog breed, from Corgis to Collies. greenpiecewireart.com 3. Volunteer at your local shelter.

4. Pick up a cuddle buddy from Perfect Petzzz. In lieu of the real thing, Perfect Petzzz will send you a soft, sleeping, plush pup that “breathes” like a real dog and comes equipped with a bed, brush, carrier, tag, and adoption certificate. Basically a four-legged Cabbage Patch Doll, come to think of it. perfectpetzzz.com

5. Become a foster parent. There are countless dogs out there looking for a warm place to temporarily call home. fosterdogs.com 6. Get woken up by slobbery kisses every time you fall asleep on your keyboard with the help of My Monitor Pets’ “licking” screen savers. For as little as $4.99, you can choose from Cooper, Punky, or Dudley, amongst other kissing canines. You can even order them up as animated screensavers for your cell. mymonitorpets.com 7. Buy a Nintendog. From the genius crew who brought you Mario and Luigi, comes the ultimate real-pet substitute: a digital dog that you can teach tricks, feed, bathe, neglect (if you’re not careful), socialize, and LOVE. Great for parents looking to give their kids a petcare preview. nintendogs.com 8. Start asking random strangers if they’d like a belly scratch and watch your popularity skyrocket. Or not. —Brielle Morgan 16 moderndog

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Sharing household chores can be a great way for a family to bond while getting things done. Include your canine family members by teaching them to pick up and put away their toys. Keep in mind that some dogs love retrieving games, while others aren’t so inclined to pick objects up with their mouths.

Whether your dog is a natural retriever or not, this trick should be broken down into several steps.

Step 1: Fetch. Start by tossing the toy 610 feet away and encouraging her to pick it up. When she does, praise her and take a few quick steps away so she learns how much fun it is to run towards you rather than running off with the toy. If she does try to play “keep away” with the toy, put her on leash until she has learned to bring it back to you. When you’re confident she’ll retrieve the toy, say the chosen cue word such as “fetch.”

Step 2: Drop. Offer a tiny, tasty treat from one hand as you place your other hand directly under her mouth. When she drops the toy to get her treat, the toy lands in your hand. She’ll quickly figure out that retrieving and surrendering a toy to you is a great way to get a reward. When you are confident she’ll drop the toy in your hand, say the chosen cue word, such as “drop,” right before you show her the treat. During 3- to 5-minute play training sessions, gradually fade out the use of the treat by holding it farther away from your dog’s nose until she will drop the toy on cue whether you have a treat or not.

Step 3: In the box. Now you can teach her to put the toy in her toy box. Toss the toy and encourage her back to you. Hold your hand over or partially in the toy box and ask her to “drop.” During 3- to 5-minute sessions, gradually change your hand from being over or in the box to simply pointing closely to it as she is about to drop the toy. Pretty soon you should be able to just gesture towards the box and she’ll drop the toy in. At this point you can say the chosen cue word such as “toy box.”

This practical, fun trick can amuse family and friends as you ask your dog to “Fetch and drop them in your toy box!” ■

THE SCOOP Dog Walk of Fame London’s Dog Walk of Fame is now open in Battersea Park for you to, well, walk your dog.

Spanning 70 years of movie making, the initial 15-dog shortlist was chosen by Sky Movie and the UK Kennel Club, then voted on by the British public to select the first six honourees. Making the final cut were Toto, Lassie, Bullseye from Oliver!, Gromit of Wallace & Gromit, Fang from Harry Potter, Greyfriar’s Bobby, and Homeward Bound’s Chance and Shadow.

The-ever-so-practical British have done away with the pawprints-in-cement bit and instead opted for honouring each of the legendary showbiz hounds with a commemorative plaque and bench near the park’s famous bandstand.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by the who’s who of canine film breeds; Collies, Dogues de Bordeaux, and terriers walked the red carpet while other Blist breeds looked on. New honourees will be selected from all genres and eras of film history and inducted into the walk annually. The park itself, a popular dog walking site, often supports events held by the local Battersea Dogs Home, a charitable home for cats and dogs established in 1860, and, with the creation of the world’s first canine-star Walk of Fame, has become known as a quiet refuge for lovers of the four-legged to escape the hustle of the big city. —Elizabeth Kemp

Green Rrroof California-based innovator Stephanie Rubin of Greenrrroof Animal Homes is bridging the gap between eco-friendly initiatives and architectural declarations of dog-love. Using 100 percent non-toxic materials such as untreated red cedar, beeswax waterproofing, and zero-VOC paint, Rubin custom builds dog homes with a unique feature—green roofs. Aside from the obvious aesthetic appeal, green roofs benefit you and your dog by filtering dust, providing clean air, and serving as insulation against temperature and sound. You can even direct the run-off water through the bamboo piping into your dog’s dish. Hurrah!

But before you go shouting from the green rooftops about this “new” roof treatment, best crack the history books. While Rubin’s design might imply a certain cutting-edge modernity, the history of green roofs dates back thousands of years to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon.

King Nebuchadnezzar was said to have built these gardens to cheer his homesick wife, Amyitis, who loved to wax poetic about her lush homeland. (It’s likely your dog isn’t experiencing these same pangs of nostalgia but that doesn’t mean Wags doesn’t deserve the royal treatment).

Rubin takes the historical appeal of green roofs to the next level with her “Jackson Plantation” model. This particular home is made from 200-year-old cedars felled during a tornado on Andrew Jackson’s estate and even comes with a certificate of authenticity.

So just how much does it cost to transform your backyard into a Babylonianesque utopia? Rubin’s homes start at $1,000 and come in a range of wonderfully creative styles. Visit sustainablepet.com to find the dream home bestsuited to you and your butterfly-chasing, flower-sniffing best friend. sustainablepet.com—Brielle Morgan

New & Improved Modern Dog website unveiled!

Check out moderndogmagazine.com for brand new features such as: the Modern Dog Rescue Forum; Editor-in-chief Connie Wilson’s blog; one-stop shopping (proclaim your love of Dog with an awesome MD tee); archived Breed Profiles and City Travel Guides; the “I’m a modern dog” photo contest (enter online and see the smiling dog-faces of past winners); free subscription to our fun e-newsletter; and awesome dog events in your area! Plus, win cool free stuff with our Giveaways.

Fun abounds so please stop by!

moderndogmagazine.com

moderndogmagazine.com

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THE SCOOP 7 easy things you can do to reduce your dog’s ecological footprint, right now.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Have you heard…? …the best new aviation product of 2007 is actually for the discriminating canine aviator?

Mutt Muffs, the world’s first pair of protective ear-gear created with your dog’s sensitive hearing in mind was singled out for the honour at this year’s AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. As they say, necessity is the mother of all invention. Pilot Michele McGuire worried about her canine copilot’s hearing and set about creating something to protect her dog’s ears.

After a few design missteps pointed out (or thrown off) by her dog, Cooper, the right design was hit upon. The muffs’ inner foam is the exact same material used for human protective gear and results in a 21 to 24 decibel reduction in noise pollutants, an important consideration given that a dog’s hearing range is almost double that of ours. (According to a study done by Louisana State University, dogs can hear a range of 67-45,000 Hz, while humans can usually only hear a range of 64-23,000 Hz.) This means that while you thought it was loud to ride on an airplane, your dog probably thought it was really loud. Thanks to Mutt Muffs, dogs now have a hearing protection option and search and rescue dogs, co-pilots, pups travelling in cargo, or even dogs spooked by fireworks can enjoy protection from harmful noises. muttmuffs.com

*

6.

7.

Make the switch once and for all to biodegradable dog poo bags. What are you waiting for? scoopies.com Order ecologically sound dog beds and organic, pesticide free dog food from olivegreendog.com or greedogpetsupply.com, sites specializing in environmentally friendly pet supplies.

Go natural—make your own natural flea spray and deodorizer (see page 68 for instructions). Goodbye chemicals!

Eat locally. Search out a dog cookie company making and baking locally.

Banish the plastic bag. Buy a reusable canvas shopping bag for trips to the grocer and the pet food store.

Consider durability when purchasing dog toys.

Better to buy one high-priced, puncture-proof toy than dozens of a cheaper variety that won’t last past a few good play sessions.

Put away the plastic wrap and tin foil and instead cover that half-empty can of dog food with a reusable, snap-on plastic lid. torudog.com.

Planet Dog’s durable Orbee ball is made of recyclable, nontoxic material.

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If you and Fifi have been reading bridal mags, this is the contest for you! One lucky reader will win a custom-made, limited-edition cream satin taffeta wedding gown for their (under 35-pounds) dog, as well as a headpiece of faux pearls, sparkle organza, and Swarovski crystal flowers. She’ll be a four-legged vision of loveliness. For more info visit bitchnewyork.com. For contest details, see page 138.

After a ten-year wait, Disney is finally re-releasing every true dog lover’s favourite movie—101 Dalmatians. With an all-new digital restoration, never before heard songs, interactive games, and more puppies than Cruella can shake a fist at, this release truly has it all.

Ten lucky readers will win their very own copy! For details on how to win Disney’s 101 Dalmations: Platinum Edition, turn to page 138.

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that not d chewy texture an e ap sh ue iq Ž chews have a un freshen Greenies dental ar, they also help rt ta d an ue aq pl rol nies.com only helps to cont sample, visit gree ee fr a or F . th your dog’s brea TM

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The Bulldog, one of the most recognizable and iconic purebred dogs, has muscled its way into the 10th spot on the American Kennel Club’s (AKC’s) annual list of the most popular breeds in the United States, according to 2007 AKC registration figures. The Labrador Retriever retains the title of “Top Dog”— a position it has now held for 17 consecutive years.

“This is the first time the Bulldog has Most Popular made it on to the top Breeds in the ten list since 1935,” U.S. said AKC spokesper1. Labrador Retriever son Lisa Peterson.

2. Yorkshire Terrier “This breed appeals to a very wide range of 3. German Shepherd dog lovers so it’s no surprise that it is a favourite amongst 4. Golden Retriever AKC’s 157 breeds.”

5. Beagle The Bulldog was first recognized by the AKC in 1886, just 6. Boxer two years after the organization’s founding, and was most 7. Dachshund popular in 1915, when it peaked in 5th place. The breed’s 8. Poodle popularity ebbed and flowed throughout the mid-20th cen9. Shih Tzu tury, but since hitting a low of 41st place in 1973, its ranking 10. Bulldog has steadily increased.

Modern Dog Poll Results

88% of Modern Dog readers would dump their significant other if he/she didn’t like their dog.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie When I was a young girl, the first thing our family dog would do when my dad left for work was jump onto my dad’s bed. He would sleep all morning long with legs up in the air, tongue hanging out, enjoying the lazy ceiling fan. But as soon as he heard my father’s car return, he would quickly jump down and run off to the yard, leaving my dad completely unaware of who had been occupying his bed in his absence.

What’s in a bed? In addition to memory foam and pocket coils, could be your dog! To prevent Rover from claiming your sleeping spot as his own, make sure you’ve provided him with a rest area that suits his needs. After all, some dog breeds can spend up to 18 hours a day sleeping, though oddly enough, only 10 to 12 percent of this time is actually spent in rapid eye

visit your favorite pet boutique to see & feel the difference As seen on HGTV & Oprah www.melialp.com toll free 888-738-3863 20 moderndog

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movement sleep. In a bid to increase your dog’s comfort (and REM), multifold advancements have been made in the dog-sleep arena, from the addition of the aforementioned mainstays of human bedding, memory foam and pocket coils, to cooling and heating capabilities, magnetic field properties, and beds designed especially for dogs that like to burrow. To find the bed that’s right for your dog, check out the online bed feature at moderndogmagazine.com/beds. –Elizabeth Gardiner

KIRA S E XTO N @ AKC

Bulldog Makes the List for First Time in Nearly 75 Years

THE SCOOP

Modern Dog Pup Profiles

Chloe

Daisy

Omen

Age: Five Breed: Shepherd mix Hometown: Vancouver, BC Nicknames: Ocho Cinco; Chica; Fleasey; Deuce; Thorpedo Likes: Long walks; swimming in the ocean; puppies Dislikes: Moustaches; rain Favourite pastimes: Chasing ducks; afternoon naps with her daddy Favourite foods: Too many to list!

Age: Three Breed: American Pit Bull Terrier Hometown: Ajax, ON Nickname: Bo Bo Bear; Bubby; Oey Likes: His doggie friends; sitting on your lap Dislikes: Being left out; Bill 132 Favourite pastimes: Sleeping in front of the fire Favourite foods: Anything Mommy and Daddy are eating

Avery Age: Six months Breed: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Hometown: Sheboygan, WI Nicknames: The Big A; Button Likes: Eating; chasing leaves; riding in the car Dislikes: Bedtime Favourite pastimes: Stealing toys from his brothers and sister; following Mommy everywhere Favourite foods: Venison; cottage cheese; salmon treats

Age: Four Breed: Jack Russell mix Hometown: Richmond, VA Nicknames: Gadg; Gadgeteer Likes: Meeting people (especially children); learning tricks/agility Dislikes: Car rides; baths Favourite pastimes: Zooming in the big field; getting really dirty; digging; digging some more Favourite foods: Rosebud’s K-9 Kreations; cheese

Want to see your pup profiled in the pages of Modern Dog? Email us at doggieprofile@moderndogmagazine.com with a high-resolution photo (minimum 4 megapixel) and the above doggie data for a shot at stardom!

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Beta

Gadget

Is your dog modern?

Age: Five Breed: Yorkshire Terrier Nicknames: Snowy; Chlo-iss Likes: Eating; playing Dislikes: Being obedient Talents: Dancing Favourite food: Baby carrots

Age: Four months Breed: Miniature Dachshund Hometown: Montreal, QC Nicknames: Beta Bort; Borta; Betamax Likes: Giving kisses; chewing on wood; her stuffed dog, Hotdog; the dog park; meeting new friends; sunshine Dislikes: Rain; her puppy food; bath time Favourite pastimes: Hanging out on the windowsill; watching people outside; exploring; napping Favourite foods: Mommy’s homemade treats; fresh-cut grass; floor fuzz; wood and paper

By submitting photographic images to Modern Dog, you grant Modern Dog a perpetual, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, modify, publish, distribute, and otherwise exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to those photographic images at its sole discretion, including storing it on Modern Dog servers and incorporating it in other works in any media now known or later developed including, without limitation, published books. If you do not wish to grant Modern Dog these rights, it is suggested that you do not submit photographic images. Modern Dog reserves the right to select, edit and arrange submissions, and to remove images from the Modern Dog website at any time at its sole discretion.

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You already insure your other valuables. Now with Petplan your pets will be covered for whatever a full and happy life has to offer. And so are you, for up to 80% of your veterinary costs.

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CALENDARspring

events

March 13 Regardless of whether you’re the no-fat venti or cuppa Joe type, you’re bound to enjoy yourself at the Canine Café, an event benefiting the SPCA in Richmond, VA. With St. Paddy’s Day-themed food, music, and festivities, you and your Irish Setter are sure to smile. richmondspca.org/events

March 21-23 Canada’s largest premier pet showcase, the All About Pets Show in Toronto hosts over 180 vendors and is a true pet-lovers’ paradise, dedicated to promoting the responsible ownership of pets and to spoiling your four-legged friends with the best and latest toys and treats. pets-show.com

Haute Dog Easter Parade

March 6 5 Dust off those tails! Critter Lovers at Work (CLAW) is holding their annual Bark & Whine Ball in support of the San Francisco SPCA. A tail-wagging evening for human guests and their elegantly attired canine companions. barkandwhine.org

1

March

March 23

Bonnets and bunny ears will be parading down Belmont Shore in Long Beach, CA, come Easter Sunday for the Haute Dog Easter Parade. The $10 parade registration fee also gets you into a plethora of “best dressed” contests, a pet adoption fair, and other activities, with proceeds to Operation Santa Paws and Haute Dogs. hautedogs.org

March 28-30 At a stand off with your pup? Need to nip aggressive behaviour in the behind?

Famed dog trainer and the founder of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers Ian Dunbar will be in Vancouver, BC, holding three training seminars for his last multiday session in Canada. Find out more and register at dogsmart.ca.

March 29 Canine Café

1 March 8 Put your paws to the pavement and get out there for the third annual Wiggle Waggle Walk in Maple Ridge, BC. Money raised goes to the BC SPCA’s Biscuit Fund, providing emergency medical treatment for homeless and wild animals. biscuitfund.com

March 28-30 5 Head to Chantilly, VA, for a pet lovers’ shopping extravaganza. The Super Pet Expo is a fun-filled family event with over 200 exhibitors and an incredible line-up of animal entertainment. For more dates and locations, visit superpetexpo.com.

The Genesis Awards, a star-studded tribute to the news and entertainment media for producing outstanding works which raise public awareness and understanding of animal issues, takes place in Beverly Hills, CA. Can’t get a ticket to the live event? The awards are broadcast nationally every year; visit hsus.org/genesis to find out when they air.

March 30 Get aboard this truly unique dog event, sponsored by Pennsylvania’s Lancaster Kennel Club. Departing from Ft. Lauderdale, this 8-day, Southern Caribbean k9 College Cruise will be loaded to the gunwales with expert seminars, meet and greets, a dog-free dog show, and more.

Sorry, two-legged guests only. allcruising.com/k9cruise.htm

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CALENDAR spring April

April 1-30 All day, every day, it’s Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month! Support your local shelter in its efforts to rehabilitate abused animals or just spread the love, baby. aspca.org

April 6

events

May May 3 Take over the park in Lebanon, TN, at this year’s Bark in the Park. Where else can you celebrate Cinqo de Mayo early and help out homeless pets with the Humane Association of Wilson County? hawconline.com

Animals for adopting, dogs a’ dancing, food for feasting: the Bow Wow Meow Pet Expo has it all. Head to Brentwood, CA, to attend this fun event and support the Four Legged Friends Foundation mission to save animals in urgent need. flff.org

Arizona Animal Fair

April 16 Boys and girls four years and older will love the Arden Theater Company’s fresh take on P.D. Eastman’s beloved book, Go, Dog, Go!, opening in Philadelphia, PA, for a six-week run. This musical world of doggie fun will make your kids howl. ardentheater.org

May 4

1

Be part of the country’s largest non-competitive dog walk-a-thon raising money to fight human and canine cancer. The American Cancer Society’s Dogswalk Against Cancer 2008 is being held at Riverside Park in NYC. Come on out and support a great cause! To find out more about participating, visit cancer.org/nydogswalk.

May 17 A little drinking, a little eating, a little shopping, and a whole lot of fundraising— sounds like a perfect night. This year’s Art to the Rescue Soiree, held in Dallas, promises to be a well-spent evening in benefit of Animal Rescue of Texas. animalrescueoftexas.org

April 26

1

If you thought dancing with two left feet was hard, try four! Don’t miss Paws 2 Dance’s “Dancing with Dogs” extravaganza in Surrey, BC. Whether it’s to check out the competition or steal some moves, get your tail down to the Cloverdale Rodeo and Exhibition Park and see what’s shakin’. bcfirst.com/paws

May 18-24 Most dog bites can be prevented. Avoid injuries and a bad rep by learning how during the American Veterinary Medical Association’s National Dog Bite Prevention Week. Education is the answer! avma.org

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moderndog photo contest wÄąnners!

smile!

Fredd & Darla

Marie & Heidi Quincy Stella

Charley

Disney

Jovie Tango

Cooper

Daisy-Mae

Think your dog ought to grace the pages of Modern Dog? Send us photos of your picture-perfect pooch! The winning entries will be published in the Summer 08 issue. Send photos to: Modern Dog Photo Contest, Suite 202, 343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4. Submitted photographs are property of Modern Dog and will not be returned. Please include your name, dog’s name and breed, address and contact info, including telephone number. Please send 4 x 6 print photographs or enter online at moderndogmagazine.com.

By submitting photographic images to Modern Dog, you grant Modern Dog a perpetual, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, modify, publish, distribute, and otherwise exercise all copyright and publicity rights with respect to those photographic images at its sole discretion, including storing it on Modern Dog servers and incorporating it in other works in any media now known or later developed including, without limitation, published books. If you do not wish to grant Modern Dog these rights, it is suggested that you do not submit photographic images. Modern Dog reserves the right to select, edit and arrange submissions, and to remove images from the Modern Dog website at any time at its sole discretion.

moderndogmagazine.com

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Have Your Dog Dogbook Mine Facebook goes to the dogs

BY MARY-JO DIONNE Illustration by Michelle Hayden-Marsan

I

N THE LATE 1980S, NBC’S SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE Last June, with a little help from personal assistants introduced viewers to Toonces. The prototypical Alexandre and Geoffrey Roche, Annabelle launched family cat, Toonces was your everyday domestic Dogbook, an application of the so-addictive-therefeline with one notable exception: Toonces the family should-be-rehab cyber-vortex of Facebook. cat could drive the family car.

While the Facebook mothership links human friends While every skit invariably saw with friends, and friends of friends, New York’s Toonces, and friends of friends of Kevin Bacon, his sojourn conclude Thelma-andthe fictional Louise style over a cliff, it was the canine offshoot links dogs with always fun while it lasted. After driving cat has been friends’ dogs, and friends of friends’ all, a driving cat? That’s almost as replaced by Toronto’s dogs. And friends of friends of Kevin ludicrous as a bowling squirrel, a Bacon’s dog. (“Six Degrees of Kevin Annabelle, the knitting raccoon, or a Commodore Bacon’s Dog” is an oft-played drinking real-life e-networking game at doggie daycares today.)

64-savvy dog. Each one, in 1989, Cockapoo. worthy of a hearty: “As if.”

Whether or not the idea of your dog But it’s not 1989 anymore. accumulating friends online makes Times have changed. And with them, societal norms you scoff, what can’t be disputed is that likes appear have undergone some jaw-dropping shifts. The to be attracting likes. Yorkie owners unsure of how to big perm has given way to the straightening iron. treat an aging dog’s poor dental health can befriend (“Impossible! Teased bangs are hot!” says my 1989other Yorkie owners and engage in some beneficial Q self.) Instant coffee has been pushed aside by the $5 and A, for example. With what is arguably Dogbook’s latte. (“Nonsense! I can get 42 styrofoam cups from most forward-thinking feature, desperately floundering one jar!” she says again.) And New York’s Toonces, owners now have the opportunity to post informathe fictional driving cat has been replaced by Toronto’s tion pertaining to a missing dog—giving Dogbook the Annabelle, the real-life e-networking Cockapoo. (“I just potential to become the canine-kid equivalent to the don’t get it. Now hand me a Tab.”) milk carton.

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Whether or not the idea of your dog accumulating friends online makes you scoff, what can’t be disputed is that likes appear to be attracting likes.

Cuddle up a little closer The latest in German design and technology comes to you in the form of…a dog blanket!

Arwedson’s special design prevents hair from adhering to the blanket. Add in coziness and cute design and you’ve got a doggone irresistible coverall. Ten lucky readers get to try one out for themselves.

For contest details turn to page 138. For more on Arwedson, check out arwedson.de.

“Let me Guess…‘I’m Hungry?’”

Want to know what’s really on Fido’s mind?

Ten lucky dogs will win an easy-to-use Messages From Your Animal Companion 55card animal communication deck, signed by the author. If you’ve been wondering why your dog’s doing crazy things or simply how he’s feeling, these cards can help! For more information, visit angelicascards.com. For contest details, see page 138.

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Just how many members would even see such a posting? The numbers may surprise. While Annabelle might have been the first dog with her furry face on Dogbook, 10 months later, she’s certainly not the only one engaging in virtual bum-sniffing at the Web dogpark.

Dogbook today boasts nearly a million members from doghouses dotting the globe; from countries as expected as Canada to countries as who-knew? as Iraq.

Proving yet again, that the human/dog relationship continues to gain international momentum.

While some might claim that all the hype is nothing more than a passing fad brought on by a frenzy of stick-bug celebutantes toting purebred runts the size of chandelier earrings, Geoffrey Roche disagrees. According to this prolific adman

with a knack for having his finger on the pulse of what’s-what, “Even in the last five years, we’ve seen a shift. We’ve got empty nesters with disposable income, and we’ve got younger couples waiting longer to have children. In both instances, the dog becomes a sort of child to the owner. Dogs have become full-fledged family members.”

There’s no doubt such is the case in the Roche household.

Where, we’re guessing, Annabelle got her paws on some old SNL re-runs. Realizing that if Toonces could drive a stick, surely he could enter a URL, Annabelle and the Roches have now initiated Catbook, which, let’s face it, is an entirely selfless thing for a dog to do. With Catbook now pushing the half-million member mark, Annabelle obviously knew it was time we let cats play with the mouse. ■

ILLUSTRATION MICHE L L E HAYDE N -MARS A N

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B RE E D P R O F IL E

The German Shorthaired Pointer The “Everyuse Dog”

By Marian Buechert • Photographs by Deborah Samuel

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CELEBRATING THE MEDIA...CELEBRATING ANIMALS

A

FEW YEARS BACK, A WELL-KNOWN KENNEL RAN AN

ad with a series of photos showing their dogs pointing birds in the field, doing agility, competing in the show and obedience rings, and, best of all, sitting happily at a child’s birthday party, wearing a silly pointed hat. Their German Shorthaired Pointers, they boasted, could do anything.

GSP owners would likely agree with this claim, although most early fanciers were thinking less about their dogs’ ability to make small talk at social occasions and more about practical skills like pointing, flushing, trailing, and retrieving game.

In 1929, C.R. Thornton, wrote: “As a breed, the German all-purpose dog will do it all and do it well.” Thornton’s article in the American Kennel Gazette was titled “Meet the ‘Everyuse Dog,’” and in it he praised the breed for being willing to take on any challenge and adapt to any situation.

“I have never attempted hunting anything from a mouse to a moose, that they were not ready and willing to assist…Good disposition. Love to be caressed. Take kindly to children, and show almost human intelligence in looking after small tots. As companions and pals, they are next to man…I find them a sensible, intelligent watch dog…they are the greatest all-around dog ever produced.”

EMMA 5©200 8/D EBOR AH SAMUEL

A HANOVERIAN PRINCE MADE THE CREATION OF AN ALL-AROUND DOG HIS PASSION. Not really surprising, since versatility was exactly the characteristic that the developers of the breed were seeking.

In the mid-1800s, there were a number of specialist hunting breeds that excelled at their own particular tasks: pointers and setters to seek out and point birds in open country; retrievers to find and bring back the downed game; hounds to track over distance; and spaniels to hunt in cover and “flush” or drive out the quarry. This specialization was fine as long as the hunter could afford to own a kennel full of different dogs. If you were an ordinary citizen with just one or two dogs, however, you needed those dogs to perform a variety of jobs out in the field and then watch over the home and be a family dog as well.

A Hanoverian prince, Albrecht Zu Solms-Bronfels, in what is now part of Germany, made the creation of such an all-around dog his passion. Exactly which breeds the prince and other early enthusiasts used to create the GSP is not known; most likely a blend of the old German Bird Dog with other sporting breeds and hounds of the time, with a final dash of English

Beyond Green Join us for the 22nd Genesis Awards Saturday, March 29, 2008 International Ballroom, The Beverly Hilton, Beverly Hills, CA

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moderndogmagazine.com

35

DIETER 6©20 08/ DEB ORAH SAMUEL

Pointer for style. By the late nineteenth century, the breed type was more or less set; paintings from this time feature GSPs virtually indistinguishable from the Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show winner in 2005, Ch. Kan-Point’s VJK Autumn Roses.

The GSP’s adaptability serves him well in modern times, when the only pointing and retrieving most dogs are required to do are pointing at the door at potty time and retrieving tennis balls at the park.

While the breed is not a good choice for a couchpotato owner in a small apartment, GSPs can fit into a variety of situations as long as they are given sufficient activity for body and brain. Owners who run, hike, bike, or are involved in agility will find the GSP a perfect companion.

The Shorthair’s low-maintenance coat should be solid liver in colour or a combination of liver and white. Solid black and solid white are not permitted under American Kennel Club rules. A weekly rubdown with a hound glove should be all that is required to keep the coat in good condition.

At 21 to 25 inches, the GSP is a medium-sized dog comparable in height to the Labrador Retriever but of lighter build. In North America, the tail is usually docked to about 40 percent of the original length; in many places around the world, docking is now illegal and GSPs are wagging long, natural tails again.

The breed is generally healthy with few genetic problems and a good life expectancy of up to 15 years.

As with all floppy-eared dogs, ear infections may crop up, so it is important to check ears regularly and keep them clean and dry.

The German Wirehaired, the German Longhaired, and the German Shorthaired Pointers are not varieties of one breed; although they do share part of their names and a Teutonic background, they are three distinct breeds with different personalities.

With its sleek good looks and eager-to-please personality, the GSP is making it onto more and more of the most sought-after invitation lists and is now among the top twenty most popular breeds in the U.S. At the same time, it has maintained its reputation as a top-notch working dog, with more AKC pointing dog championships awarded to Shorthairs than to any other breed.

And that, say lovers of the “everyuse dog,” is something to party about. ■

DIETER 1©2001/DEBORAH SAMUE L

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Dress Your Dog Help! I need a look that says: “I break for rainbows.”

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Running Naked

by Patricia Komar Photographed by Lindsey Donovan

40 moderndog

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“R

EADY!” BRIO, A QUIVERING SNOW

ball of energy, balances on hind legs, front paws pushing up and down, praying, begging to be released. His eyes are fixed on owner Sherrie Shorman.

“Set!” The Bichon flips around.

“Go! Jump!”

At last! Brio flies over the first hurdle with Shorman running to his left. “Tunnel!” He turns a sharp left, disappearing inside what looks like a giant vacuum hose laid on the ground. Shorman meets him at the opposite end with praise— “Yes!”—and points to the next obstacle: “Dance!”

Without missing a beat, the Bichon kicks up ruddy earth as he races to a set of poles planted upright in the ground in a line. Side by side, dog and owner take on the challenge. Brio weaves rapidly in and out through the poles while Shorman does a highstepping, tip-toed tap dance alongside, rolling her tongue in a long-winded RRRRRRRRR that urges Brio through the weaves and across the finish line.

“Good boy!” Shorman rewards Brio with treats and tosses his favourite ball.

Brio is currently one of Canada’s top dogs in agility, a wildly popular canine sport that requires dogs to run a course of jumps, ramps, tunnels, and other special obstacles like the weave poles and the teetertotter. The United States Dog Agility Association, just one of several bodies that organize agility events, represents more than 100 affiliated groups and reports more than 20,000 registered competitors throughout North America, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Bermuda, and places as far-flung as Spain and Japan. Agility competitors are timed and those with the least “faults” such as knockdowns or other errors, combined with the fastest time win “legs” toward agility titles as well as placement ribbons in their class.

Handlers run with the dogs on the course to guide and encourage them, but they may not touch the dogs or the obstacles during a competitive run.

The sport demands physical agility, speed, and skill, but, most of all, teamwork. To succeed, a dog must be fast and keen, but must also accept direction from his human partner. Dogs must work without collars (a rule based on safety considerations),

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Without missing a beat, the Bichon kicks up ruddy earth as he races to a set of poles planted upright in the ground in a line.

leading to many jokes about “naked” dogs, but this perfectly symbolizes the need for partnership: a collarless dog is a dog well beyond the power of a handler to physically intimidate. If your dog can’t run naked and work with voice direction alone, you aren’t ready for agility competition.

At Highrun Dog Sport Facility in Pitt Meadows, British Columbia, owner/ trainer Bev Mattson brings communication between dogs and their owners to a new level. Starting with the Nanaimo Kennel Club on Vancouver Island in 1997, Mattson soon knew she’d found her niche in agility. She attended seminars and training sessions and ultimately began trialing (competing). In a covered barn with no side walls, she trained others. After a move to the mainland, she sensed there was a need for more competition and training opportunities in the area.

Although she first conducted classes outside and in horse arenas, she knew she wanted a purpose-built facility to house the training sessions. “I needed a roof over my head and a facility just for dogs so I wouldn’t have to clean up horse manure anymore,” she explains. She built it and teams of dogs and their owners came to run. “We’ve forgotten to run with our dogs,” she says. “Run! That’s what agility is.”

On this particular evening, Mattson is working with master-level teams of dogs and owners. Tracey Mallinson, 40, horticulturalist/dance teacher, brings Acer, a Poodle sporting decorated French-braided hair. Acer skims through the tire hoop.

Speed is his middle name as he dives after his toy squirrel thrown at the finish line.

Laurie Huston, 31, professional painter, and Fletcher, her Lab cross, move to the starting line. Fletcher circles Huston then waits under her legs. “This way I can line him up with where he’s going to go,” Huston explains. Marian McCormack, 43, food industry, gives commands from 5 metres away to Jessie, her Border Collie/ Blue Heeler cross.

For beginners, a six-week session costs $70. The requirements are minimal: dogand people-friendly, current vaccinations, and basic obedience skills. Beginning level is started on-leash. Eventually dogs run off-leash.

Highrun houses a dog playground equipped with teeter-totters, tunnels, hurdles, dog-walk planks, pause table, weave poles, A-frame, and tire hoops.

Here dogs climb, jump, stretch, and crawl over, under, around and through obstacles with their handlers guiding them in a race against time.

At the beginner level, Mattson combines obedience with foundation agility.

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Obstacles like planks and jumps are at ground level, tunnels are short and straight, and the A-frame is flattened out. Sessions include valuable and fun exercises such as turning your dog into, away from, and around your body.

“In my experience 90 percent of the dogs take to it right away,” Mattson says. She shares a story about the first class Flora, her Bernese Mountain Dog, attended.

“The A-frame was the first obstacle. Flora climbed over and back, then over and back again. And again. Ears flying. Huge smile on her face. Woohoo-Woohoo! She just kept doing it. Seven times. I had no control.

I was so embarrassed. My trainer told me to leave her as she wasn’t being unsafe.

Flora was having so much fun she couldn’t contain herself. I learned a valuable thing: never come down on your dog. It’s about fun.”

The team of Mattson and Flora went on to win a first place at the very first Canadian National Agility Competition in 2001.

Embarrassing first-class moments can chase even the most courageous of the pack straight to their den to lick emotional wounds, but they usually return.

“You get addicted.” Shorman says.

“When I’m three blocks away, my dogs start crying, excited to be going. Brio wags his tail, shakes, and barks. Agility is great exercise. My relationship with Brio is so

close because of agility. It creates a tight bond, more communication, more love.”

Mattson echoes this sentiment with the story of Atsak, an American Eskimo Dog who had lost his sight. “Agility gave him confidence, got him through his later years.

He’d go into our barn, do the old teeter over and over then the tunnels back and forth [even though] he was totally blind.”

As Mattson succinctly puts it, “Fun and the relationship between you and [your dog] are most important. It’s about little things, the look on her face when she comes off the teeter, the silly things the two of you do on the course. It’s about having fun with your dog. That’s what’s important.” ■

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44 moderndog

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what lies beneath When Good Dogs Go Bad

By Corey Van’t Haaff

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A

NYONE WHO KNOWS ME KNOWS I WOULD LAY DOWN MY LIFE FOR ANY OF MY

dogs. I wouldn’t hesitate to put myself between my girls and any threat that came our way.

But last autumn, a threat did come calling: an internal threat. One of my dogs, a gorgeous 18-month-old German Wirehaired Pointer named Matilda, became the threat.

It was Sunday evening. We had just finished a pizza feast and, of course, the dogs got their nibblies. The TV was on, the empty cardboard box still on the coffee table. I had claimed my space on the corner of my very long couch, purchased to accommodate all my canine friends, when my very old Poodle, Stella, walked over.

In a flash, Matilda was on her, attacking her ferociously. It took a long time to pry her teeth from Stella and once that was accomplished, the damage was severe. Stella’s side was ripped open and without the muscle to hold back her internal organs, her intestines had tumbled out, protruding against the skin. I was in full panic mode. I locked up each dog separately and rushed Stella to an emergency clinic, but her injuries proved to be fatal. I was devastated.

What followed—the question of what to do about my baby, Matilda—was heartrending. I thought this could be simply a one-time occurrence. I rationalized that I could not euthanize a perfectly healthy puppy for one mistake. I discussed the situation with my vet and my dog-owning friends. Reaction was mixed.

One friend said to euthanize her immediately.

One of my dogs, Another said not to be hasty—it could be an isolated a gorgeous incident. Maybe it was jealousy, another chimed in.

18-monthAggression in a multi-dog household is a huge old German problem, according to Peni Fitzpatrick, dog behavWirehaired iourist, trainer, and owner of The Dog Company, a dog training facility on Vancouver Island in British Pointer, became Columbia. the threat.

“Aggression is the outcome of an issue not being addressed,” she says. “Aggression is not a natural thing. Wolves are rarely aggressive toward their own kind unless threatened.” In our world of dog/human relationships, aggression develops when a dog issue is not dealt with. “Aggression always accelerates if it’s not dealt with,” she says. “The human must be the pack leader.”

Naturally dominant dogs need to know in no uncertain terms that it’s you in charge, not them. They cannot be allowed to exhibit any unacceptable behaviour, including growling or mounting another dog.

And it’s a 24/7 job.

“The moment you let it slip, instantly the dog will take charge. The leader is the leader around the clock.”

At the same time, says Dr. Stanley Coren, noted psychologist and dog behaviour expert, the top dog needs to know that you recognize and support the pack hierarchy; you may be dominant over the alpha dog, but she or he is dominant over the others. ”Among dogs, the largest and strongest always have higher ranking in the social order,” he explains. “When you are distributing food, praise, affection or anything of value to the dogs, do it by starting with the largest and strongest animal and working downwards to the smallest and weakest animal (regardless of your own sense of honour or justice or preference). If you fail to do this you are setting things up for trouble. For example if you feed the Chihuahua first and the Pointer later, then you have violated natural pack order.

This means that the Pointer must prove that it is higher in the pack and that will be done by attacking those dogs that appear to have usurped [her] rightful rank and so forth. It may not make sense to you as a human, but it does to the dogs.”

Guilty as charged. I had always given any treats, food, love, and affection to the dogs in the order they came into my home.

There were probably many warning signs I didn’t notice, or gave little thought to. Stella only came into my home a few years ago. She was lovable but definitely grumpy and had nipped at almost all the other dogs from time to time. I ignored it because of her age.

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I didn’t know what caused Matilda to attack, but figured if it was even partially my fault, I couldn’t live with myself if I punished her for my shortcoming. She would be given another chance.

But I knew I had to make some changes.

Whenever I left the house, my two little dogs were kept in one half of my home, the two big dogs got the other half. When I was home, I kept Matilda close by my side so I could watch her. When I had my bath every morning, she was in the bathroom with me. When I was working from my home office, again, she was with me. If I ran to the corner store, Matilda was in my car. I was mindful all the time of Matilda’s location in the house and if I wasn’t where the other dogs were, Matilda was with me.

And, of course, my heart froze many times after that terrible night.

When someone knocked and the dogs would run to the front door, I ran with them. My friends used to complain at the total chaos upon entering my home. The dogs all barked, jumped, and vied for attention while I, the pleased-as-punch mom, stood by, so proud of all my girls.

No longer. Now, I would grab Matilda’s collar in an attempt to control her. I tried to make her sit quietly and I tried to maintain some type of control. I was hopeful this would be enough.

On a Saturday several weeks after Stella’s death, I had invited company for dinner. As I opened the door to welcome my guest, my Chihuahua, Clara, barked.

Clara, sweet little Clara, always timid, always the first to bark and the last to stop.

Matilda turned on her, attacking her and holding her to the floor. I pried her off and followed Clara, who was yelping and screaming, to the bedroom where I had to drag her from under the bed. The damage

Stella

was considerable but not life-threatening.

I took her to my vet, who stapled up her wounds and I returned home knowing that Matilda could no longer be trusted. The next day, Matilda was euthanized.

Was the whole tragedy my fault? I’ll never know for sure. As with most things in life, the answer is complex. Possibly, I could have done more to assert my leadership status and support Matilda’s place in the hierarchy, allowing her to feel secure and making her attacks on the other dogs unnecessary. I could have trained my dogs more and perhaps managed the situation better. Probably some of the problem also lay beyond my control—somewhere deep inside poor Matilda’s psyche.

Dr. Ian Dunbar, renowned veterinarian and animal behaviourist, says that it’s normal for dogs to argue, squabble, and fight,

sometimes with good reason and other times without provocation. The key issue is whether they cause damage when they bicker.

“All dogs fight,” he says, “but very few dogs cause damage because they have developed bite inhibition while play-fighting and play-biting other dogs during puppyhood.”

“The simple fact is that, for whatever reasons, [this dog] did not develop bite inhibition during puppyhood and so caused great damage during the attack,” said Dunbar. “We do not know the reasons for this because we cannot turn back the clock.

However, the most likely suggestion is that she did not have sufficient opportunity to play as a puppy.”

Dunbar added that these incidents are so rare that it is virtually impossible to predict them beforehand.

This gives me some wee comfort. I feel I failed Matilda by not foreseeing this situation and by not doing more to have avoided it. Matilda forever changed my life with her big, goofy demeanor and limitless love for me—and mine for her. Ultimately, she paid the price for some cheque I didn’t know had been written.

“As a psychologist who studies human problems as well,” Coren said, “let me assure you that playing ‘blame games’ doesn’t help. Stop thinking about the past and start thinking about establishing order and harmony among the dogs that remain.

Ultimately they will comfort you and provide the social support that you need to get through the hurting.” ■

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SP RING 2008

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spring semester PHOTOGRAPHED BY EYDIS EINARSDOTTIR

the bohemian Keilo, a Puggle, wears dreadlock wig, Wiggles (wigglesdogwigs.com), and plays with Rasta ball, Fab Dog (fabdog.com).

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class president Rags, a Norwich Terrier, wears brown and pink argyle vest, Fab Dog (fabdog.com), and lilac tie, Road Wagz (roadwagz.com).

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Louis, a Shih Tzu, wears a tee with studs, Paris Erotica, and eur-de-lis necktie, Paris Hilton; both at Barking Babies (barkingbabies.com).

the indie rocker

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the punk princess Lucy, a St. Bernard, wears a pink studded collar (barkingbabies.com).

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the metal head Chicken, an Affenpinscher, wears red check hoodie, at Barking Babies (barkingbabies.com)

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Archie Cooper, a Goldendoodle, wears a North Carolina basketball jersey, Sporty K9 (sportyk9.com), and sterling silver chain lead (barkingbabies.com).

the b-baller

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body&soul

DOG MYTHS AND

MAYBES

By Dr. Laurence D. Braun & Dr. Mark Lang of Canada West Veterinary Specialists and Critical Care Hospital Photo by Brooke Jacobs

1. Garlic and onions are bad for dogs.

TRUE. Both in sufficient quantities produce compounds that damage the red cell membranes and cause anemia.

Damage to the red cells leads to red cell breakdown and may show up as much as five days later. Blood transfusions and aggressive care may be necessary.

Certain concentrates or dry mixes will have higher concentrations. There may be enough in some flavoured foods to affect smaller dogs. Some toxicologists suggest that as little as 5 g of garlic per kg of body weight can be toxic. A medium onion (about 250 g) could be toxic to a 50 lb dog.

2. Dogs eat grass when their stomachs are upset.

WE DON’T KNOW. We don’t know whether they deliberately eat grass to make themselves vomit or simply eat enough grass to upset their stomachs.

Many dogs eat grass and do not vomit.

A large number of veterinarians believe that dogs eat grass for behavioural or explorative needs. They may like the taste, as a lot of dogs seem to prefer sweet new growth. Some dogs that vomit regularly after eating grass may have other health issues that need to be examined.

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3. My dog has a warm or dry nose so he must be sick.

FALSE. Your dog’s nose may at times be dry or wet, warm or cool, and this may be completely normal. Other symptoms that are more reliable in indicating that something may be askew are: lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in appetite, changes in water intake, changes in breathing, changes in activity, changes in exercise tolerance, changes in patterns of elimination (urinating/defecating). There are some skin diseases that affect the nose, however. If you see excessive thickening, crusting, loss of pigmentation, ulceration, or an unusual or persistent nasal discharge, have your vet check it out.

4. I can catch a cold from my dog.

FALSE. We do not share human cold viruses with dogs. However, there are growing concerns over other viral diseases that can be carried or shared by pets and other animals. SARS is caused by a corona virus, and is thought to be transferred to people from an animal host. By and large, though, most viruses tend to infect just one species.

5. Rawhide is bad for my dog.

FALSE. However, like any material, a big piece of rawhide could be large enough to lodge in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Nearly every veterinarian has a story about removing a piece of rawhide from a throat or stomach. (We also remove things like panty hose, underwear, socks, cloth, string, rocks, balls, buttons, bones, jewelry, batteries, TV remotes, and—our personal favourite—a rubber ducky, intact and covered in peanut butter.) In most mature healthy dogs, this is rarely an issue. When trying a new treat it is a good idea to observe them and their behaviour with the treat. Don’t use them if your dog consumes them quickly and swallows large pieces.

There have been some concerns with bacterial (such as Salmonella) contamination in rawhide and some related products like pig’s ears. This is very uncommon, but serious when it occurs. Check out the source of the rawhide; it may be prudent to purchase only products made in Canada or the US. There have also been

reports of toxins such as arsenic but they have not been reported for many years.

6. Grapes and raisins are poisonous to dogs.

TRUE. The compound that causes this has not been identified and it is a recently recognized phenomenon. It can cause acute kidney failure leading to death. Many times, ingestion of grapes and raisins is harmless, but other times it can be catastrophic. There is no known pattern as to which raisins or grapes can be toxic and either a large or small amount can cause illness. Symptoms may include vomiting and diarrhea shortly after ingestion, loss of appetite, and depression. Quick treatment can save a dog’s life: if you see your dog eating grapes or raisins, induce vomiting and then rush him or her to the vet.

7. My dog will die if he eats cooked chicken bones.

MAYBE. Many dogs will eat cooked chicken bones and have no problems. The bones dissolve quickly in the stomach’s acid environment. Cooked chicken bones are sharp and brittle, however, and can cause havoc, such as lacerations to the esophagus or gastro-intestinal tract. We have seen a case where a dog’s stomach was full of a compacted mass of turkey bones. This dog got into a lot of turkey bones at Thanksgiving, and ended up needing surgery to remove them. We have also seen perforation of the intestine with chicken bones. In one patient, the bone had migrated out of the intestine and penetrated a kidney. Raw bones, on the other hand, can be contaminated with bacteria and cause illness.

8. My dog gave me warts.

FALSE. Blame your non-furry friends.

9. Dogs that eat rocks, feces, or sand, or lick the sidewalk are suffering from a nutritional deficiency.

MAYBE. Some dogs may just eat odd things because they find it enjoyable.

Puppies use their mouths a lot to explore when they are young, and some never grow out of it. When a dog eats abnormal things to excess (a behaviour called “pica”), it may be related to a nutritional

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imbalance. However, true nutritional deficiencies are uncommon these days; as with humans, we see more excess than deficiency. Pica can also be associated with boredom or attention-seeking behaviour.

10. Chocolate is poisonous to dogs.

TRUE. The theobromine and caffeine in chocolate can cause excitation and lead to elevated heart rate and temperature, ultimately progressing to an abnormal heart rhythm, seizures or cardiac arrest.

The more concentrated or darker the chocolate, the worse it is. Only 1/10 ounce of baking chocolate per pound of a dog’s body weight can be fatal. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include increased thirst, restlessness, vomiting, and diarrhea. If enough chocolate was not eaten to be directly toxic, the ingestion of a large amount of chocolate can cause inflammation of the pancreas, another serious condition. Boxes of chocolates left on counters or coffee tables may be sniffed out by your canine detective and devoured, so keep them out of his or her reach.

11. If I bathe my dog too often, she will lose her hair.

PURE KINDNESS

quently, he or she may experience flaky or itchy skin, rather than hair loss. If your dog experiences hair loss, it is more likely the result of an allergy or a skin infection.

MAYBE, but not likely. They are more

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likely to be responding to nonverbal communication such as eye contact, posture, and hand gestures. Even in humans, most of our communication is nonverbal, with body language carrying most of our information. Avoiding eye contact, looking away, and standing with the body facing away all convey a nonchallenging or submissive expression to a dog. It may be difficult or impossible to get a dominant dog to obey you under those circumstances.

They may not be “smelling” your fear as much as reading your body language.

13. My dog is depressed.

MAYBE. We think that some dogs may indeed be depressed and feel sad at times.

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14. Anything that seems loud to my ears is doing damage to my dog’s sensitive hearing.

MAYBE. Damage to hearing is dependent on the intensity and duration of the noise.

For example, a lot of dogs bark very loudly and this does not seem to cause them distress, though it can hurt our ears!

There have been some reports of dogs going permanently deaf from being in the cargo compartment of planes. Dogs can experience hearing loss through a variety of medical problems affecting the ear canal to middle ear (conductive loss) or affecting the sensi-neural part (nerve loss) of the auditory system. Some dogs are born deaf. Many older dogs have some degree of age-related hearing loss.

FALSE. If you bathe your dog too fre-

12. Dogs can smell fear. green tripe pet food

It may manifest as lethargy, avoiding interactions, and having a reduced appetite. Dogs do seem to pine for missing family members and other pets. They can also have other behavioural problems. We often describe pet behaviours in human terms and emotions, but their motivation and behaviours are wholly canine, not human. However, some quiet, sad dogs are actually physically ill, so it is important to rule out medical issues before assuming a psychological cause.

15. My dog’s mouth is cleaner than my own.

NOT NECESSARILY. Dogs don’t carry human viruses that can be spread through licks or bites, and human mouths can harbour a lot of contagious viruses and some nasty bacteria. Some human physicians feel that infections from human bites or “tooth on fist” trauma can be worse than those from dog bites. On the other hand, many dogs do have significant gum disease/infections with many different kinds of bacteria present, and dogs also lick their…well, you know where, and sometimes they like to eat garbage or youknow-what. You be the judge. ■ Note: In regards to all questions about toxicities in pets, one of the most helpful websites is from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. This is the only animal poison control centre in North America with available veterinary toxicologists 24/7. Their website is www. aspca.org/apcc.

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body&soul

Back to Basics Grow Your Own Sprouts Satisfy both your and Poochie’s urge to graze by introducing alfalfa sprouts into your diets. Pack them into your salads and sandwiches and mix them in with Rover’s dinner and you’ll both reap the health benefits. With a harvest cycle of just seven days from seed to salad, they are indeed a miracle food.

Incredibly, just one pound of alfalfa seeds will yield 10-14 pounds of fresh sprouted salad greens that contain 4 percent protein, more chlorophyll than spinach, kale, cabbage, or parsley, highly active antioxidants, and saponins that are known for reducing bad cholesterol and fat. All this and you can grow them year-round on your countertop!

Here’s what you’ll need: Alfalfa seeds Glass jar (a 1-quart Mason jar works well) Screened sprouting lids (either purchased at your local health food store or homemade from a nylon stocking fastened with a rubber band or metal canning ring).

Step 1 Place two tablespoons of seeds in a clean quart jar. Fill the jar half full of room-temperature water, cover with screened sprouting lid, and let the seeds soak in the water overnight.

Step 2 Drain the water and let the seeds sit. After draining, roll the jar around so the wet seeds stick to the sides of the jar, then lay the jar on its side.

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Step 3 Rinse the seeds with cool water twice every 24 hours. Simply run the water through the screening lid, swirl, drain, and repeat Step 2. Once the jar is filled with half-grown sprouts, transfer half of them to another quart-sized jar.

Continue twice-daily rinsing of both jars.

Step 4 Enjoy! By the fifth or sixth day the sprouts are usually big enough to eat. Spread them out in the sunlight to activate their enzymes and green up their leaves, then store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy delicious, healthy sprouts.

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All-natural Carpet Deodorizer 1 cup baking soda 1 cup (4oz) dried lavender flowers Lavender essential oil Mix baking soda and flowers in a large jar. Add 5-6 drops of lavender essential oil. Close the jar and shake well. It is now ready to be sprinkled on the carpet. The deodorizer will work best if allowed to sit in the carpet for about an hour before vacuuming.

For a “woodsy” scent, replace the lavender with sage and cedarwood essential oil. For a lighter, more floral scent, try rose petals and geranium essential oil.

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Peppermint oil Cinnamon oil Lemon grass oil Clove oil Thyme oil Combine equal amounts of the above essential oils in a small jar fitted with an eye-dropper lid. Shake well before applying drops along the spine of your dog, starting between the shoulder blades and finishing at the base of the tail, parting your dog’s hair so that the solution is applied to the skin. For a dog of 40 pounds, about 4 ml should be used; adjust amount for dogs of greater or lesser weight. Do not apply to puppies under 12 weeks of age. If you have a multi-dog household, don’t allow the dogs to groom one another until the solution has dried.

Apply as frequently as every two weeks. moderndogmagazine.com

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body&soul ask the animal psychic

by Joy Turner

Q:

Goldie was our yellow Lab and best friend. Goldie and I shared a very special bond. When she had cancer and was having chemo, the chemo weakened her so she couldn’t jump up on the bed any more. It was the saddest time in my life, seeing her in pain and uncomfortable. I decided I’d never let her suffer like that again.

One evening, my husband found Goldie on the floor having a seizure. My husband took her to the vet so they could keep her and watch her in case of another attack. I called them in the morning to find that she’d been having cluster seizures constantly. When we went to see her, our hearts broke. My angel lay in the crate shaking uncontrollably. We let the doctor put her to sleep and stayed to the end.

I worry who met her when she passed on. Was she frightened?

Was she angry with me that I let her go? Does she know I love her and miss her? Is she safe and happy in heaven? Will I ever be with her again? Is there a relative of mine taking care of her? Does she miss me too? Can you contact her and see how she is and tell her my heart died when she left? And that I’m so sorry for everything.

—Susan, River Vale, NJ

A:

Susan, my heart aches for you. I know how terrible this type of thing can be.

I found Goldie on the other side being ministered to by a number of angels. These angels, along with many others who know and love her and you, met her. There were several animals and humans that looked like they could be in the position of grandparents. Because of her confusion at crossing and before, there was a special team of angels to make sure she crossed smoothly and got completely to the other side. Her Spiritual Guides were also there. The angels and guides made sure she was comforted and extremely well taken care of. There was no trauma as she met them and they carried her to the other side. There was so much love, she felt no fear or even sadness at that time. Only love. They explained what happened and why and made sure she was at peace.

She is not angry at you at all. And knows that you, in fact, were there to the end. She knows how hard it was for you to keep your word and stay with her and protect her when the things she was experiencing were so terrible to watch and participate in. She feels very blessed because you loved her so much that you would do this for her. Her guides want me to tell you

that you had no other choice but to let her go or watch her suffer.

She is safe and at peace. And, you will be with her either when you pass or if she chooses to reincarnate. She would love to have you not be sorry for the bad part and instead be happy for all the good. She is very sad your heart died. She came to keep it open and would love it if you could find a way to keep it open and loving.

Goldie loves you more than there are words to say and wants me to tell you she is still connected in your heart. She is alive and well in spirit and will always be. Whenever you think about her or talk to her, she hears you. She also feels your love. She would like to visit you in your dreams soon, if that is alright with you.

Please accept our love and support at this time.

Q:

Punkin is a Cairn Terrier, six years old, who was rescued from a puppy mill. She is terrified of walking and has to be carried off the property and then encouraged to walk. She will flatten to the ground, or pull the other way in terror. I’ve tried everything I can think of, but she won’t walk.

Can you help me figure out why she is behaving like this and what I can do to help her overcome her fears? —Jude, Kearny, NJ

A:

Jude, when I asked Punkin about this, she showed me how scary such a very huge area is to her. Apparently she isn’t so much afraid of walking as she is of being outside.

What she showed me is that pretty much everything is alien to her. The only thing she really knows about is very small spaces and not moving about very much. This would make sense coming from a puppy mill where dogs are usually kept in small cages with no real room. She showed me that the house even was big for her to start with. This can be remedied with a great deal of patience and just letting her sit outside on a porch, for instance, and loving her so she gets to feel safe being outside.

Then you will have to move very slowly farther outside. You will know when you went too far too fast because she will freak again. It depends on how well she integrates this and how patient you can be to determine how long it may take her to actually go for a walk. ■

Do you have a question for the Animal Psychic? Submit your question and a recent photo of your dog to animalpsychic@moderndogmagazine.com.

Please also include your background information (ages, history, names, and where you live) to enable the psychic to make a connection.

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body&soul

Dr. Dog’s Dinnertime Dictionary

by Elizabeth Kemp

Note: Before making any changes in your dog’s diet, consult your vet and do your own research.

Vegetarian: A person who does not eat, or believe in eating, meat, fish, or fowl. A vegetarian diet for humans or animals will consist mostly of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and grains.

Vegan: A vegetarian who omits all animal products from their diet, including dairy, honey, and eggs. A vegan diet will consist wholly of plant products.

Raw food diet: A diet that focuses on uncooked meat and vegetables.

Supporters of raw feeding believe that this diet mimics that of an animal in the wild and is therefore more natural for the dog. Opponents worry about the risk of food-borne illnesses posed by the handling and feeding of raw meat.

BARF (Bones and Raw Food) Diet: A diet similar to the raw food diet, but with uncooked bones and supplements added to the mix. The theory behind the BARF diet is that raw bones give an animal nutrients and minerals it may not get from eating dry dog food.

Organic: Refers to the conditions under which plants were grown or animals were raised. Organic farming involves the use of renewable resources and conservative use of soil and water throughout the farming process. Produce is treated with naturally-occurring pesticides while meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products are free of antibiotics or growth hormones. Before a product can be labeled “organic” the farm at which it is produced must meet stringent government-set standards. ams.usda.gov/nop/Consumers/brochure.html

Order online at www.doggiepawdelites.com moderndogmagazine.com

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body&soul Holistic or holism: A philosophy

Protein: In reference to food, protein

that emphasizes the importance of looking at the whole as opposed to separate parts. Holistic veterinary medicine will consider all aspects of an animal’s life in making a diagnosis, including both a physical examination and observation of the animal’s behaviour, diet, emotional stresses, home environment, and other factors. Holistic medical techniques are generally minimally invasive and focus on the animal’s total well-being and reduction of stress.

is considered plant tissue or animal tissue (meat) that is rich in essential amino acids.

Omega fatty acids or essential fatty acids: Carbon compounds that are necessary for health but that cannot be made by the body. There are two types: omega-3 fatty acids, found most commonly in fish oil, canola, flaxseed and walnut oil, and nuts, and omega-6 fatty acids, found in seeds, legumes, and unsaturated vegetable oils (borage, grape seed, sesame, primrose, and soybean).

Both types of fatty acids are used by the body to produce hormones, are important to a healthy coat (or healthy hair for the two-legged) and skin, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol, prevent arthritis and inflammation, protect the body from cardiovascular disease, and play a crucial role in brain development.

Amino acid: Biological compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen (sometimes sulfur) that are the building blocks of proteins. Amino acids are absorbed by the body when meat or plant tissue is eaten, and are used by the body’s cells for growth, maintenance, and repairs.

Human-grade (as in: “human-grade

Chondroitin: A chain of sugars attached to a protein (in its solitary form) that is an important structural component of cartilage and helps prevent the joints from pressing down on each other. Along with glucosamine, it is widely used as a dietary supplement for treatment of osteoarthritis. ■

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Ellen DeGeneres on rescuing coyotes, blazing trails, and mouthto-mouth on a sparrow.

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Ellen

BY MARY-JO DIONNE

Photographed by Andrew Eccles Makeup, Agostina for Cloutieragency.com. Hair, Robert Lopez. Styling, Kellen Richards.

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“Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.”

—Helen Keller

T

HROUGH MUCH OF THE MID-

to late nineties, my friends knew not to call me on Wednesday evenings during a particular half hour.

For 30 minutes, I had a date with Ellen Morgan, the fictional funny lady brought to life in comedian Ellen DeGeneres’ series Ellen. But my sacred Wednesdays were about more than just channel surfing for a laugh. Wednesdays with Ellen, for me, became something of a young writer’s church. I was learning my first invaluable professional lessons: Comedy can equal kindness. Hollywood can equal humanity.

After multiple episodes of build-up—including innuendo that had Morgan stepping out of her hall closet—the world heard words never before uttered by a leading character on TV: “I’m gay.” While supporters cheered, not everyone was in favour of her landmark announcement, and ultimately, in 1998, Ellen Morgan took her final bow.

If the late nineties were about coming out, the new millennium was about coming back. After surviving her own brand of both personal and professional hurdles, a stronger, wiser, more into-her-own Ellen emerged in true phoenix-from-the-ashes style. She shone as host of a post-9/11 Emmy Awards. Her ability to captivate a crowd with a mesmerizing blend of comedy and compassion was a sign of things to come: specifically, the September, 2003, launch of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which debuted on the heels of her uber-success as the voice of Dory in the Oscar-winning animated hit Finding Nemo. With more prestigious award-show wins to her credit than you can count on your fingers, toes, and elbows, not to mention accolades that include a stellar performance hosting the 79th Academy Awards, here is an Ellen who has found her groove. Both figuratively and literally.

As I pull my car into the lot of NBC’s Studio 11 in Burbank for our noon-time chat about her love for all things animal-esque, the vibe that this is the scene of a heck of a lot of DeGeneres-spawned dancing is palpable. The irony is not lost on me when I am told that today’s taping is for Wednesday’s show. After all, Ellen and I—and Wednesdays—go back a long way.

MD: I don’t want to get too personal, but what’s your favourite line in Salt-n-Pepa’s “Shoop”?

Ellen: I’ll have to sing the whole song…

MD: Feel free.

Ellen: Here I go, here I go, here I go again. Girls, what’s my weakness? Men. Okay then, chillin’, chillin’, mindin’ my business… Yo, Salt, I took a look around and I couldn’t believe this, I swear, I stared, my niece, my witness... I think “My niece, my witness.” To rhyme with: “I couldn’t believe this.” The brother had it goin’ on with somethin’ kinda – uh – wicked, wicked… I’m not shy so I axed for the digits.

And it’s I “axed” for the digits. She “axed” for them.

MD: She took out a sharp object and axed for them.

Ellen: Yeah.

MD: You’ve achieved a lot of firsts. First woman comic to be invited to sit down with Johnny Carson.

First openly gay leading role in a sitcom. First show to win the Emmy for Outstanding Talk Show in its first three years. Do you feel comfortable calling yourself a trailblazer?

Ellen: The thing I focus on is my path, and if it somehow impacts other people, good. I don’t do it to be a first. I do it for my challenges. So when I do something, I don’t ever think: Wow, nobody’s done this before! My life is my journey, and mine alone. I either feel good about something, or if I don’t, I know I made a mistake [and I] learn from it.

MD: So the trail you are blazing is your own?

Ellen: Yeah. Which I think we all should be doing.

There are so many people that get to the end of their lives and have never fully done what they wanted to because they’re scared. And people get so comfortable with the uncomfortable. No matter how bad their life is, their job is, whatever the situa-

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tion, they do what it is they think they’re “supposed” to because they’re scared and [anything else] is the unknown. But the unknown is exciting.

MD: Helen Keller said “Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.”

Ellen: Helen Keller was brilliant. Like, look at that. Look at who she was.

MD: In your mom’s book Love, Ellen she talks about how you always had a houseful of rescues. Birds and a chipmunk and a dog called Happy.

Ellen: Ironic in our family. Our family’s dog was named Happy. We had to label something. “No, no. We are happy!”

MD: What is it about animals that always made you gravitate towards helping them?

Ellen: I cannot imagine not going home to animals. They are the closest thing to God. They don’t harbour resentment.

Somebody put it really well: If you hurt a dog, the dog may, years later, remember you hurt him if he sees you. But he’s not going to spend all those years planning how to hurt you the next time he sees you.

The compassion I have for animals is from the earliest memories I have. I kept files and copied things out of encyclopedias for what was going to be my office, because I was going to be a veterinarian.

MD: Right. The American Express ad.

Your childhood ambition: To work with animals.

Ellen: My entire childhood was spent copying things out of encyclopedias and rescuing. And doing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on birds that flew into windows.

MD: Did you attempt this?

Ellen: I did. And it actually worked.

My father was humiliated. It was at a car dealership. It was a bird that went into the window and everybody just looked at it. I’m a kid and everybody’s going on with just looking at cars and I ran out and grabbed it.

MD: Not true!

Ellen: Yeah. I have a million bird res-

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cue stories. I rescued a hummingbird that had drowned. A hummingbird! Which is the weirdest thing. It was not at all responding. Its eyes were closed. It was just laying in the palm of my hand, soaking wet, and I took it and put its beak from flower to flower, and all of a sudden I saw its tongue come out of its mouth. I couldn’t believe what was happening—to go from being a lump in my hand, to its eyes opening, to literally taking off.

“I cannot imagine not going home to animals.

They are the closest thing to God.” It was at a horrible point in my life where I was so depressed and it saved me. I realized that you never know when a hand is going to scoop you up and put you from flower to flower. To me, animals are an amazing example of who we can be and what the connection is.

Whether it’s a dog or a cat or….I rescue things I shouldn’t. I almost had a coyote in my car once that I thought was a dog. I almost had it. People were honking at me and it was in the middle of the street and I had the car door open and I was calling it. Everybody was screaming and honking, and I’m like: “You shut up! Why aren’t you saving this dog?!” And then as it got closer, I was like: “I think that’s a coyote.”

MD: So what have you got at home now? Dogs, cats, cows…?

Ellen: Portia and I have three cats and two dogs. Wolf is a Maltese-Poodle mix and Mabel is a Standard Poodle.

MD: So you’re a Poodle gal?

Ellen: Well, not necessarily. I’m an anything. If I could, I would have 15 cats

and 20 dogs. We have the space and we continue to try to rescue everything we can, which is why we had the whole [Iggy] situation. But I believe in a harmonious dynamic. You don’t force animals to get along. That’s like forcing a roommate to live with you and go “Oh, you’ll get along with that person!”

MD: Have you recovered from the heartache of Iggy?

Ellen: I think I felt like a victim. For me to have been on any kind of attack for an animal issue felt like “This is crazy.”

I thought I was saving an animal. The way I read it was that if you cannot provide a good home for the animal, it comes back to the shelter. And so I provided a good home.

I’ve learned a whole lot. I had no idea it really meant making a phone call and saying “Is this okay?”

I’m the most honest person you will ever meet—to a fault. I will show you exactly how I feel. I happen to have a talk show. So, I talk about whatever is going on in my life. I had spent all night trying to save this family from losing their dog. It was a dog that I knew was in a good home and I couldn’t just do a show without talking about it. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to completely contain it and I lost it.

MD: I don’t think that’s unfortunate, Ellen. It was a genuine moment.

Ellen: Well, it was a moment that people aren’t used to seeing on TV. MD: But this is an industry that needs to learn that seeing something real is lovely.

Ellen: Well, thank you. I mean, believe me. It wasn’t pretty. I didn’t walk away going: “That made me look good.”

MD: Crying usually does make people look good though. Bawling especially. I like to look bloated and puffy.

Ellen: Yeah. I like to do that ugly cry, where people can play it over and over again.

Anyway, I’ve gotten over it to the extent that I know it was an interesting

Antum, a Greyhound, wears a pearl necklace with rhinestone heart, Fancy Lulu (fancylulu. com); pearl and Swarovski necklace, Le Prissy Pets (leprissypetsjewelryinc.com); rhinestone crown charm, Chloe’s Canine (chloescanine.com); mesh necklace with crystals, Buddy G’s and double strand rhinestone necklace, Dorothy Bauer, both at barkingbabies. com, and “Doll Face” pink wig, Wiggles (wigglesdogwigs.com).

Lucy, an Italian Greyhound, wears a steel dupioni silk ball gown, Studio PetLuxe (studiopetluxe.ca) and pearl and Swarovski crystal necklace, Le Prissy Pets (leprissypets.com)

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“I’m the most honest person you will ever meet—to a fault.” moment in time that I had to go through for whatever reason. For me, it raised a lot of issues. As long as an animal is protected and safe, that’s the most important thing. There are too many dogs that need homes. Our Standard Poodle was a show dog done with her career, and the guy wanted a better life for her because she was living in a kennel, [so] we got a seven-year-old dog that’s fantastic and loves the cats.

Then we have Wolf, who is a rescue.

We got [him] off the street from a guy

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who—this is a horrible situation—walks up and down Sunset Boulevard in front of expensive restaurants with puppies, knowing full well someone is going to say “How much?” He smuggles them in from Mexico. Most of them don’t make it.

MD: So are Mabel and Wolf the inspiration behind your decision to buy into Halo, Purely for Pets pet food?

Ellen: You know everybody does different things. A lot of celebrities do perfumes and clothing lines and certainly those things have been offered to me. And I do

wear perfume and I do wear clothes….

MD: Oh, you do wear clothes? I wasn’t sure what I was going to find when I came in here.

Ellen: Yes, I do wear clothes. Describe that I am wearing clothes right now.

MD: A bikini and high-cut sneakers.

Ellen: And a tube top. Yup, that’s what I’m being interviewed in.

We were approached and this was the dog food I was already using, coincidentally enough.

MD: You were using it or your dogs were?

Ellen: The dogs were using it. We weren’t. But you can eat it if you want to.

It’s delicious. We used this dog food and loved it and it was just a beautiful meeting. I’m really excited about it all. It’s just a great quality of food.

MD: Okay, quick gear-shift. Why do so many comedians abandon kindness when they step onto stage?

Ellen: Number one, most comedians, I would say, are angry inside—angry or sad or not dealing with things, and that’s their way of coping.

Number two, is just conditioning.

Which is why to me it’s so important to show people there is another way to make people laugh. That you don’t have to get a laugh at someone else’s expense. Because it happened to me for a while after I came out, I was more sensitive to it. And it doesn’t feel good. I think it’s a lot smarter and harder to be funny without being mean. It makes you think in a different way.

MD: Recently you did your dance to Kanye West’s “Stronger”. (Th-th-that won’t kill me, can only make me stronger.)

Do you think that’s a philosophy for you, personally or professionally?

Ellen: I don’t think you have to take that approach to it. I think that everything you attempt makes you stronger. It’s up to us to look at every single thing as a learning experience.

It goes back to animals. They wake up in the morning and the first thing they do is stretch. They eat and they exercise and

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“My life is my journey, and mine alone.” they sleep and they want love and they give love unconditionally and they don’t judge you. They are just pure love. They require all that we require. But we try to push it. We act like if we don’t have this and don’t have that. They don’t look at another dog and go: Look at the ass on that dog, I should have an ass like that.

MD: They just sniff it.

Ellen: Exactly, they just sniff it. Which is what we should do. That’s my point.

Finally, we’re getting to the point of this interview. If we would just sniff one another’s butts....

MD: Next elevator ride, just lean in to whoever is there for a quick sniff.

Ellen: Yup, and then pee right against the corner of the wall.

A life to me with animals, watching them and being with them, is all I need.

I don’t care about getting any stronger. I

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just care about being a good person and a kind person and trying to help animals have a voice. One thing I want to do at some point in my life is try to make the laws a lot harsher for people who abuse animals.

I just want to love animals and be around them all the time.

MD: And if that means rescuing a coyote and giving a hummingbird mouthto-mouth, all the better.

Ellen: No, it wasn’t the hummingbird I gave mouth-to-mouth to. Don’t mix your birds. Someone is going to read this and try to give a hummingbird mouthto-mouth and scrape the roof of their mouth. I never said give a hummingbird mouth-to-mouth. Don’t make me look crazy. It’s a sparrow that you give mouth-to-mouth to. ■

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THE COOLEST FINDS FOR YOUR CANINE CUTIE.

doggie styles With funny names like Bad Boy Astor, Cheeky Squeaky Pets toys are a must-have for sassy bitches and hipster hounds alike. reddoghouse.com

Hug a bug. Turn “Eww” to “Aww” with a fun, handcrocheted, washable, durable caterpillar toy. oomaloo.com

Frogger. Let it rain, let it rain, let it rain! Stay dry and cute in this froggy doggie raincoat. abone-to-pick.com

Modern and minimal,

timeless yet trendy, this

Beaded beauty.

For those days when you want to show off those perfectly toned shoulders, these handbeaded tanks from Oscar Newman say “I do pilates.” oscarnewman.com

hand-braided leather collar and lead is the dog’s bark (infinitely better than the cat’s meow, don’t you think?) dogsdepartment.com

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the modern dog’s guide to

montreal >where to shop, eat, stay, and play.

By Laura Potter

•

Illustration by Keith Warren Greiman

Sniffed out: the city’s best ideas for a full day of doggie nirvana.

Herewith, Montreal’s top dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, shops, and outdoor spots.

Loews Hotel Vogue

>st a y Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth 900 Rene Levesque Blvd. W. (514) 861-3511 Famous for hosting John and Yoko’s 1969 “Bed-in for Peace,” this stately, storied hotel welcomes classy pooches under 20 pounds. Truly the grande dame of Montreal hotels, the Queen Elizabeth was recently recognized by Travel + Leisure as one of the 500 greatest hotels in the world. From the grand lobby and helpful staff to the well-appointed, luxurious rooms and suites, both you and Fluffy will be staying in style. Situated above the underground train station, in the middle of Montreal’s commercial and cultural districts, you’ll be close to thousands of boutiques and restaurants as well as the business center, making it a perfect choice, whether your stay is business or pleasure. A $25 daily fee applies and dogs should remain in their kennel and not be left unattended in the room. fairmont.com/queenelizabeth

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The Opus

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10 Sherbrooke Ouest (514) 843 6000 A mere stroll (or stagger) from the bars, restaurants, and shops of happening Saint Laurent and the cultural delights of the Latin Quarter, yet less than a kilometre from Montreal’s Convention Center and business district, this hip boutique hotel never fails to please. The stellar location and combination of luxury and sleek minimalism of modern design make for a most memorable stay. Gracious service, a terribly chic lobby and rooms, atmospheric lighting, low beds, slate showers: the little details are not overlooked, not even when it comes to your dog.

Greeting your furry traveling companion are a comfy bed, bowls, and a delightful Howlistic International Doggie Jet Set Kit containing treats, toys, and necessities like the tiny-purse-sized “poo adieu” containing a solitary bag, a temporary ID tag, and a Greenie, in case Rex forgot his toothbrush. There’s also an (edible) stogie to be enjoyed post-dinner, a lead, and therapeutic paw massage cream to be used after a long day of exploring the city streets. There is no additional charge for dogs and, best of all, no sizism, Big dogs are welcome, too; they only ask you don’t leave Rex—big or little—unattended in the guestroom. opushotel.com/montreal

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1425 De La Montagne (514) 285-5555 Fashionable hounds and their owners will delight in the plush luxury (think canopy beds and flat-screen TVs by the Jacuzzi tub) of the Hotel Vogue, located wonderfully near the shopping mecca of Ste. Catherine’s Street. The “Loews loves pets” policy means star service for canines, with special bedding, food and water bowls, even a placemat awaiting them. Plus, they’ll be greeted by treats and a toy upon their arrival, along with a welcome note including information

on local walking routes and petfriendly restaurants. The petspecific “do not disturb” sign is particularly charming. Your best friend isn’t even neglected when it comes to ordering room service; the menu includes entrées especially for Fido, such as grilled chicken or lamb on rice, designed in conjunction with a veterinarian to help pets deal with travel stress. For health-conscious dogs, Loews also offers a vegetarian meal and for late-night munchies, you’ll find gourmet dog biscuits in the minibar. To help your dog work off all these snacks, the concierge is happy to arrange for a dog walking service or dogsitting, if that is required. But best of all, there are no extra fees or size restrictions. loewshotels.com moderndogmagazine.com

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later, he still sticks to tradition, producing only the same sesame and poppy seed bagels as in 1962. Open 24 hours!

Want to take a taste? They’ll ship across Canada. stviateurbagel.com

Schwartz’s Montreal Hebrew Delicatessen 3895 Saint-Laurent Boulevard (514) 842-4813 Since 1928, Montrealers have been loyal disciples of this world famous deli’s mouth-watering meats. Now it’s your turn. Grab a smoked sandwich to go and enjoy the sights on a stroll down Boulevard Saint Laurent. If you’re nice, you’ll share with Poochie. schwartzsdeli.com

L’Hotel XIXe Siecle

Bark & Fitz 4868 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest (514) 483-3555 Whether Fido needs a stylish new outfit or the best health food available, this adorable Westmount boutique has it all.

Friendly staff, shelves of toys grouped by colour, and luxe grooming services round out the experience. barkandfitz.com

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262 rue St-Jacques Ouest (877) 553-0019 Old world charm, Louis-Philippe design, and unparalleled service distinguish this boutique hotel. Built in 1870, its rooms boast high ceilings and classic appointments. Walk out the door and into the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, one of North America’s oldest communities, and soak in the blend of French Ancien Régime and British Colonial architecture that make up this neighbourhood. Canine guests of any size or stature are warmly welcomed, though a canine party is not— there is a maximum of one dog per room.

A cleaning fee of $50 per night is levied. hotelxixsiecle.com

>eat

200 Rue Saint-Paul Ouest (514) 845-6611 You’ll find the city’s best borscht, perogies, and cabbage rolls at this family-run Polish restaurant nestled in the heart of picturesque Old Montreal. stashcafe.com

Patati Patata 4177 Saint-Laurent Boulevard (514) 844-0216 This tiny, charming, and friendly spot offers excellent, everything-made-on-thespot burgers, fries, tofu stir-fries, and salads at very affordable prices. A delicious, cooked-in-front-of-you mini burger is just $2.25 and the must-have Montreal-classic poutine is amazing.

>shop

Le Doggie Bag Café 5976 Avenue Monkland (514) 313-6140 On a frigid winter day, four-legged and two-legged friends will rejoice in this welcoming canine café, which brings the community of the dog park indoors. No human food but lots of homemade meals for Fido. doggiebagcafe.ca

St. Viateur Bagel Shop 263 St. Viateur West or 1127 Mont. Royal East (514) 276-8044 This 50-year-old bagel factory is why, when you think Montreal, you think bagel. Current owner Joe Morena began working here at 14 and, nearly 50 years

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Little Bear Animalerie 4205 Ste-Catherine Ouest (514) 935-3425 This popular pet supply store has been Westmount’s hot spot for dogs since 1994. Chuck Altman and four-legged coowner Doobie provide a wide selection of high-quality and premium pet products, from the latest and trendiest fashions to an excellent variety of dog food sure to please even the pickiest eaters. All this, plus knowledgeable and friendly service. littlebear.ca

Urban Pet 122A Westminster Nord (514) 488-9099 High-end booties, jackets, and bling are all in stock at this pet boutique/grooming center/bakery. The warm service from owners Michelle Sturino and Lydia Moore delights, plus they offer hotel pick-up and drop-off grooming service with all-natural products for canine travellers in need of a coiffure. urbanpet.ca

Le Réveil du Maître 5377 Boul. Saint-Laurent (514) 490-0202 Themselves pet owners, the staff at this health boutique will match your dog with a holistic and natural diet specifically catered to his needs. Choices abound with Eaglepack, Urban Carnivore, Old Mother Hubbard, and more in stock. lereveildumaitre.com

Haute Pet Couture Made in Italy with Love Milano

FOR CUSTOM AND WHOLESALE ORDERS CONTACT OUR SHOW-ROOM AND OFFICES: For Pets Only Srl Via Atto Vannucci, 3- 20135 Milano (Italy) tel. +390258430558 fax +390258326796 info@forpetsonly.it For Pets Shop & Spa Via St. Pietro All’Orto 3 20122 Milano (Italy) tel/fax +3902795694 shop@forpetsonly.it For Pets Only NYC 87 Mercer Street 10012 New York City (USA) tel. 212-925-5264 info@forpetsonlynyc.com

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Bella Pella

Parc La Fontaine

1201A Rue Mont-Royal Est or 3933 Saint-Denis (514) 904.1074 Multitask! Treat you and your pet to the delicious spa products at this smart boutique. Fresh, hand-crafted bath and body products for you, Woof Cosmétiques’ wonderful Coconut and Lime Shampoo for your best friend, naturalment. bellapella.com

Sherbrooke at Papineau (514) 872-2644 Corner of Sherbrooke and Avenue du Parc Lafontaine Nestled on the eastern edge of the Bohemian Plateau Mont-Royal community, this 100-acre urban oasis offers idyllic strolls around two man-made ponds and an off-leash dog park near the tennis courts. Note that Rottweilers, Pits, and Dobermans must be on leash at all times, even in the off-leash area.

Monique Simone Photography 1900 Augustin catin suite 302 (512) 924-4357 Pamper your pooch with a one-hour photo session at this renowned photo studio.

Price includes an online web gallery and one 5x7 print. moniquephoto studio.com

Parc Mont-Royal 1260 Chemin Remembrance (514) 280-8989 Dogs (and you) will love this mountain park’s variety as forested areas give way to picturesque cemeteries and panoramic views of the city. Dogs must be leashed and cleaned up after at all times.

Let sleeping dogs lie Draper Knitting’s Canine Therapy beds are made with Holofiber, a revolutionary material which helps increase the blood flow and raises the percentage of oxygen in your dog’s body.

Three lucky readers will ease their canine’s stiffness by winning a bed! For contest details, see page 138. For more info, go to drapercaninetherapy.com.

Botanical Beauty

Muzo Pet Hotel

>pl a y

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FREE STUFF

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5525 Chemin de la Côte-Saint-Paul (514) 931-1117 This top-quality pet hotel doubles as a club where active pups can enjoy the gym or customized entertainment programs for a day. With its focus on your pup’s well-being and health, it offers a fun social setting for urban pups and peace of mind for pet parents. muzohotel.com ■

The Gordon MacIntyre line of beautiful botanical dog cleansers might just inspire you to do some spring cleaning—on your dirty dog!

Five hairy readers will win a deluxe gift set containing all four of their luxurious lathering cleansers and a super-absorbent towel that adds sheen to the coat when used dry. For contest details, turn to page 138. For more info, go to gordonmacintyre.com.

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Angel’s Gate PHOTOGRAPHS AND TEXT BY SHAINA FISHMAN

A

Angel’s Gate Hospice and Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit haven for physically challenged, terminally ill, and disabled animals; a place where they are allowed to live out their lives in peace, dignity, and comfort.

Susan Marino and Victor LaBruna opened their residential home in 1992 to take in these special-needs animals; animals that have run out of options, with no other place to go. They welcome those that have been surrendered by their human companions or from shelters that would otherwise euthanize the so-called unadoptable animals. Many of their residents were abandoned, having ceased to be “useful” to their guardians or having become too much of a burden upon entering old age or becoming ill. Some animals arrive after a lifetime of abuse and are given a peaceful and loving environment, if only for a few days, before they pass away. Others that come in paralyzed or critically ill are cared for using a holistic approach with a focus on physical, emotional, and spiritual care. At any one time there are several hundred animals of all kinds receiving loving care at Angel’s Gate. Indeed, there are angels at work at here.

Angel’s Gate is currently in the process of moving from Long Island to Delhi, NY in the Catskill Mountains.

Donations are desperately needed during this time for construction, a therapy pool, animal transportation, and everyday expenses. For more information on Angel’s Gate or to make a donation, visit angelsgate.org.

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(bwlow) Angel’s Gate is not a sad place. The animals receive plenty of attention, love, and necessary healthcare from Susan, Victor, and dedicated volunteers.

(below) The heated pool is used for playtime and canine hydrotherapy. Susan works with the dogs doing gentle isometric movements, TTouch, and massage therapy.

(above) Many of the animals are rehabilitated and healthy and could be adopted; however Susan has made a lifetime commitment to keep all the animals in her care to ensure that they live a life with love and safety

(above) Toby, a Shih Tzu mix, was born without eyes. Many dogs that are paralyzed, blind or deaf, or have neurological or seizure disorders are given up by owners who do not want to deal with these issues. Toby was saved from a New York City shelter where he was scheduled to be euthanized.

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Why isn’t this working?

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Your dog won't want to leave our new dog bed made with the revolutionary smartfiber Holofiber. Holofiber has been clinically proven to increase circulation, combat stiffness and soreness and accelerate muscle recovery. Visit us at our new website drapercaninetherapy.com to shop on-line, or call 1-800-808-7707 to request a catalog.

DRAPER CANINE THERAPY F E A T U R I N G H O L O F I B E R®

©2008 Draper Knitting Company, Inc | 28 Draper Lane | Canton, MA 02021 | (781) 828.0029 | draperknitting.com

A shopping experience like never before.

From all natural foods and baked treats to dog gear, Bark & Fitz has scoured the globe for what we believe are the most durable, entertaining, stylish and nutritious products you will find for you and your dog.

For a store location nearest you or on-line shopping please visit www.barkandfitz.com If you are interested in franchise opportunities across North America please email us at: franchise@barkandfitz.com

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(below) Sampson has congenital deformations of all four limbs. He is a lively and affectionate dog not held back by his disability. All the animals, handicapped or not, get plenty of outdoor and inside playtime.

(below) After a satisfying raw-food lunch, dogs cuddle together on blankets for a nap. Even with over 60 dogs in the home, squabbles rarely erupt, not even during feeding time.

Dogs are welcome almost everywhere in the home and cages are never used. Baby cribs are often employed when isolation is required for an animal. The hospice, inside and out, appears like any other residential home.

Animals come in with critical or chronic health problems, or a serious disability, such as ponies with calcified ankles and dogs that cannot walk, while others come in with easily fixable problems like cherry eye.

(above) Angel’s Gate is a certified wildlife rehabilitation center. They continually take in squirrels, pigeons, geese, and ducks to nurse back to health in order to eventually release them back into their natural habitat.

(above) Cats come to Angel’s Gate with a variety of problems including feline aids positive and feline leukemia. The cats live active social lives divided into separate rooms depending on their conditions.

(above) Susan with Priscilla. Priscilla suffers the effects of Shaken Baby Syndrome, including severe brain damage and cannot stand without the use of her wheelchair. moderndogmagazine.com

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Jewelry

Winner Editor’s Choice Award Cat Fancy Magazine

Pa s s i o n s W o r n with Pride many more styles online

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www.andrealevinejewelry.com Toll Free: 866.91.BREED (866.912.7333)

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Meals fit for a king are lost without a regal placemat to drool over. colettapetmats.com

Dreaming of sunny climes?

Slip on this turquoise leather collar with coral-colored stones and transport yourself—in spirit anyways— to the Costa Brava. phyllismorgancollection.com

Upholstered in sleek white vinyl, with silver nail heads, alder legs, and even a bolster and white silk monogrammed throw pillow, this is a bed fit for Hollywood royalty. poochieofbeverlyhills.com

SANDE R M ULDE R & DAVE K E UNE , BUR O VO R MK R IJG E R S

Woofers. For those times you wish your dog made sweet noise.

Half sound-system/half fourlegged friend, these speakers may just be the pinnacle of functional kitsch. sandermulder.com

chienchic Classic Sexy Beast scent in limited edition Swarovski crystal-encrusted bottles is the last word in chic. sexybeaststyle.com

What do I sleep on? Why nothing short of cashmere, dahhhling. Revel in classic luxury on a Windsor Castle Friends of Cashmere bed. friendsofcashmere.com

This lace pom-pom collar is equal amounts sugar and spice. forpetsonly.it

Pastel-cupcake hued raincoats are perfect for a spring afternoon stroll to the patisserie. mollyandjune.com

Dosha Dog’s hand-crafted collars may just be the

With a canine-inspired, not to mention paparazziworthy, handbag you can carry your dog (or a breed representative, anyways) everywhere. fuzzynation.com

Sweetheart. A sterling silver heart-shaped clasp, cherry quartz heart, and cut crystal and glass beads make this necklace the perfect embodiment of spring—pretty and feminine. lisaconfetti.com

perfect accessory. doshadog.com

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Not Just For Pets!

Bling up any existing dog/cat collar with our wide variety of lobster clasp charms or create a new personalized collar with our rhinestone buckled collars, slide charms, and letters.

Our lobster clasp charms work well as zipper pulls on backpacks, purses, wallets, and even key rings.

All of our products are made with genuine preciosa crystals and are rhodium plated.

Customized charms are available.

To order contact: 100% Natural For Pets www.natural4pets.com

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art attack T

HE LOVE STORY OF DOGS AND THEIR PEOPLE IS AN OLD

one, an embrace of unconditional love that has spanned centuries. Mae Mackenzie immortalizes this bond with brushes and paint. Her specialty is dog portraiture and capturing the precious relationship owners have with their dogs.

When you look at her work, there’s no denying the warmth it evokes; you can’t help but smile. Mackenzie admits that she has “an uncontrollable tendency to empathize” and that she “gets right into people’s love because that is what is always behind a portrait.”

Mackenzie has been experimenting with the arts since she was a child but it wasn’t until she moved to Paris that her work evolved from craftier endeavours like jewelry-making into the fine art of painting.

Although Paris has been Mackenzie’s home for almost twenty years, she still finds the city inspiring, whether she’s looking out her kitchen window at “the North Star in the early morning dark blue sky” or walking her daughter to school at dawn. For Mackenzie, it’s the beauty of France that has brought her painting to new levels. She never intended to live in Paris, but while vacationing there, she met her husband and never looked back.

by Marni Wedin

Years later, when her daughter was only three years old, she lost her husband to cancer. Instead of moving back home to Washington, DC, she decided to stay in Paris.

Before pursuing painting, Mackenzie honed her drawing technique at the prestigious Beaux Arts and La Grande Chaumiere. Her drawing prowess and her fascination with light and colour emanate from each piece. Working strictly with oils, she conjures a hybrid of impressionism and photorealism.

Mackenzie works primarily through photos and when possible will take the photo herself. With each portrait, before her brush even hits the canvas, she establishes a connection between herself, her furry subjects, and the humans commissioning the piece. After getting to know clients through phone conversations, email correspondence, or face-to-face meetings (an avid traveller, Mackenzie is sometimes able to meet with owners and their dogs in their own city), she is ready to portray on canvas the essence of that timeless love affair between canine and human. maemackenzie.info; prices start at $700 ■

She conjures a hybrid of impressionism and photorealism.

Clockwise from top left: photo of artist; Billy; Nelson; and Socrates Wants to Play

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Astromutts

By Stanley Coren Illustration by Jess Golden

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F

EW NORTH AMERICANS REMEMBER THAT THE FIRST LIVING EARTHLING TO ORBIT THE

earth had four legs and a tail, and answered to the name of Laika.

We are so accustomed to the idea of men in space stations and even walking on the moon, that it is hard to believe that there once was a time when there were grave doubts about whether humans could survive outside of the Earth’s atmosphere. There was a long list of potential problems that scientists were concerned about. Many forms of radiation that might be harmful to living things are filtered out by the miles of air that cover our planet. There were fears that the absence of gravity might wreak havoc on our vestibular system, which is responsible for our sense of balance, and the resulting nausea and vomiting might completely incapacitate an individual. Furthermore, the stresses of being launched into space, with high gravity forces and extreme vibration, might be harmful.

There were other concerns as well, plus a simple fear of the unknown that worried space scientists and kept them awake at night.

After World War II, the exploration of space became a worldwide passion and a great political issue. America began by using captured German rocket technology, specifically the V2 rocket, which was originally designed to be a ballistic missile and carry explosives.

However, the Soviet Union had also captured German scientists and had the same technology.

Both the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. were striving to be accepted as the greatest superpower in the world, and part of this involved demonstrating their advanced scientific and technological accomplishments. It soon became clear that the symbolic winner would be the first nation to conquer space, to place a man in orbit, and to walk on the moon. The great “space race” was on, with the reputations of both nations and their national pride hanging in the balance.

Because of fears that space might be lethal to living things, the first living organisms that were intentionally launched into space were some fruit flies and kernels of corn.

These took a suborbital jaunt on an American V2 rocket in 1947.

However, on July 22, 1951, the Soviets astounded the world when they sent two dogs, Dezik and Tsyganka, up to the edge of the atmosphere—a distance of around 100 kilometres—then had them leave the rocket in ejection seats and float safely back to earth. Both dogs were healthy and unharmed.

Tsyganka (Russian for Gypsy) was retired from the program and adopted by the Soviet space scientist Anatoli Blagonravov, who would later become well known for his efforts toward achieving peaceful international cooperation in space research. Dezik was not so lucky. Some two months later, he took another suborbital flight with a dog named Lisa, and neither survived.

The Soviets eventually used 21 dogs in suborbital flights, reaching heights of nearly 500 kilometres. The Russians next shocked their U.S. counterparts by placing the first satellite in Earth orbit, Sputnik 1. While the world was still buzzing about that accomplishment, they topped that triumph by managing to put the first living creature from Earth into orbit. Sputnik 2, launched on November 3, 1957 carried a dog—the Samoyed/terrier mixed breed, Laika.

There were a number of reasons why dogs were chosen for these experimental

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They were placed in simulators that provided noise and shaking much like that of a rocket during take-off. In addition, they were given rides in centrifuges to simulate the increased gravitational force associated with a high-acceleration rocket launch.

They also learned to eat from a dispenser that provided them with a nutritious jellylike protein and to drink from a special fluid dispenser.

Laika had some additional training. Remember, hers was an image-building political mission, as well as a scientific one.

So she had to learn her new name, Laika (meaning Barker), because the foreign press was having difficulty pronouncing her real name Kudryavka (Little Curly).

Laika’s trip was meant to be one way.

According to Russian reports at the time, she survived for four days in good health, and was euthanized by a poison in her last portion of food so that she would not suffer.

In 2002, 45 years after her flight, the truth came out when the Russians admitted that there was a malfunction in the spacecraft. In reality, Laika died after only five hours in orbit, presumably due to overheating, fear, and stress. The false reports were part of the publicity aspect of the flight. This was an attempt to minimize the unexpectedly bad press that the Soviets were getting for deliberately sending a dog out to die in space. Oleg Gazenko, one of the scientists responsible for Laika’s death, has said, “The more time passes, the more I’m sorry about it….We did not learn enough from this mission to justify the death of the dog.”

A space physiologist who worked with NASA once explained to me why the Americans never used dogs in their space program.

“We told the public that we were using monkeys because they were closer to humans in their physiology and behaviour. We even broadcasted films of Ham, a chimp, pulling levers for treats in a spacecraft in 1961. We said that this demonstrated the ability to perform tasks in space, which was why we chose primates.

ILLUSTR ATIO N JE SS G O LDE N

flights into space. Dogs are well suited to endure long periods of inactivity and they are intelligent and adaptable. Their physiology is closer to humans than that of many other species, including rats.

Also, the Russians felt that there had to be lots of publicity around each new accomplishment in order to convince the world that they had the most technologically advanced space program in the world. A dog is a more impressive spacecraft passenger than rats or mice.

Furthermore, they can be placed in front of television cameras and made to bark into microphones, which was what Laika was called upon to do prior to her flight.

In truth, Laika’s publicity activities and the timing of her mission were personally orchestrated by the Prime Minister Nikita S. Khrushchev. He wanted her flight into space to be part of a gala celebration for the 40th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution.

Only mixed-breed dogs were used in the flight program, because the Russian scientists felt that purebred dogs might suffer from certain genetically related health problems. All of the dogs in the programs were actually stray dogs, rescued from the streets of Moscow, rather than animals accustomed to living in a house. This was preferred because the researchers felt that these dogs would be able to tolerate the rigours and extreme stresses of space flight better than other animals that may have lived a more comfortable life. Only female dogs were used since they do not lift their legs to urinate, and it is easier to design equipment to collect urine and feces from them.

Like the human cosmonauts that would follow them, all of the dogs in the program were trained for the rigours of orbital flight. As part of their training, they were confined in progressively smaller box-like containers, and the confinement times were increased until durations of around three weeks were reached. They were trained to remain motionless for long periods of time while wearing space suits.

Actually, we could have had a dog doing tasks in space just as well. The real reason that we didn’t use dogs was because of the kind of public response that resulted when Laika died in orbit. There was real public outrage over the death of that dog. People don’t like it when a monkey is killed in an experiment, but nobody lives with a monkey, so their response is kind of bland and academic. When it comes to dogs, however, there is a real emotional response. People can imagine the ‘victim’ being their own pet. We needed public support and letting a dog die in space seemed like a sure way to damage NASA’s reputation.”

The Russians did manage to pursue their advantage in the space race and, at the same time, regain some favour in the hearts of the people when Sputnik 5 was launched on August 19, 1960. The passengers this time were two dogs, Belka (Squirrel) and Strelka (Little Arrow), plus forty mice, two rats, some flies, and a selection of plants. These animals spent a full day in orbit and then the spacecraft’s retrorocket was fired. The landing capsule and the dogs were safely and speedily recovered and the passengers became the first Earth-born living animals to survive orbital flight. To the delight of the world, the dogs were paraded in front of television cameras and shown to be happy dogs in obvious good health.

Strelka would provide further good press for the Soviets. In June, 1961, there was a summit meeting between President John F. Kennedy and Prime Minister Khrushchev in Vienna. At dinner one evening, Khrushchev was seated next to the president’s wife, Jacqueline, and he was bragging about the flight of Strelka and Belka. He went on to announce that Strelka had just given birth to six healthy puppies, proving that space flight was safe. Mrs. Kennedy laughed and said “Oh, I bet that our daughter, Caroline, would love to have one of those pups.” Two months later, the Soviet Ambassador Mikhail Menshikov showed up at the White House with a little white puppy named Pushinka (Fluffy) from Strelka’s litter.

When Pushinka arrived, the Kennedy children wanted to play with her. The Cold War mentality pervading the White House, however, prevented that from

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happening immediately. The Secret Service was certain that the dog had been implanted with some sort of transmitting device to spy on the president’s activities or, even worse, some sort of lethal biological implant which might ultimately spread infection through the First Family and the White House staff. So they turned the dog over to the CIA who were going to kill and autopsy the dog.

EACH DEATH OF A DOG BROUGHT A STORM OF RESENTMENT TOWARD RUSSIA AND THEIR SPACE PROGRAM. The president was horrified. Killing a dog with such a famous mother and which had been given as peace offering from the Russians to his children, would have been a public relations disaster. Instead, the dog was sent to Walter Reed Hospital for examination. She was poked, prodded, scanned with a magnetometer, tested with thermography, had X-rays taken, and even subjected to an early version of a sonogram. All they found inside of Pushinka was the usual “doggie stuff,” so she was returned to the White House. Around a year later, she gave birth to a litter of what the president called “pupniks.”

The last Russian dogs to fly in space were Veterok (Breeze) and Ugolyok (Little Piece of Coal). They were passengers on the biosatellite, Cosmos 110, which was launched on February 22, 1966. The dogs were observed in orbit for 22 days via video transmissions and biomedical telemetry. The spacecraft then returned to Earth safely with the dogs in good health.

This still stands as the canine spaceflight duration record and was not surpassed by humans until the flight of Skylab 2 in June 1973.

After Cosmos 110, dogs were removed from flight status in the Russian space program. There were several reasons.

The one that was issued to the media was that enough had been learned, and it was now established that mammals could live and work safely in space conditions for long durations. The other reason simply had to do with publicity. Of the 13 dogs that had been sent into space in

the Soviet orbital program, five had died.

Each death of a dog brought a storm of resentment toward Russia and their space program.

There was one last publicity effort to minimize any damage to Russia’s reputation caused by the use of dogs in their space program and the loss of a significant number of them. It is probably also an indication that the average Russian citizen has strong sentiments about the use of dogs in space but also has a real sense of pride in those that survived.

Today, the Memorial Museum of Space Exploration in Moscow features a permanent exhibit celebrating the “canine cosmonauts.” The bodies of Belka and Strelka were preserved and Belka can be seen in a glass case at the museum. Strelka still gets the chance to go on long journeys and is often on tour as part of the museum’s traveling exhibition. The names of all of the dogs that flew in the Soviet space program are listed as part of the display and the heading proudly designates them as “national heroes.” ■

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It's Spring! And your best friend wants to go out and play....

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*D.I.Y.

Make a totally radical hemp collar and leash

By Elizabeth Kemp ude, my Sheppy and I were surfing these gnarly waves out at Seven Mile Beach when we totally scored an invite to this awesome party (see page 115). Only prob, my salty four-legged sister is more “Don’t tie me down, man,” than she is “Look at my bling.” So I took a lesson from my hemp-wearing brahs and macraméd Ciara a festy piece of her own. For a 5-foot (1.5m) leash, you’ll need at least 50 ft (15m) of natural/polished hemp cord or twine depending on desired thickness. This is twice the intended length of the lead plus filler cord to knot around and thicken the final product.

D

5. When you reach desired length, add hardware as you wish, or be a true hippie and just tie the collar on. (If tying, use a bowline with a back-up knot, this will be the easiest and most secure knot.)

1. Cut five 10-ft pieces of twine as your filler cords; these will make up the core of the lead.

Pretty sweet, right dawg?

2. Cut one 20- to 30-ft, piece of twine; this will be your “working twine,” that you knot around the center cords. Should this piece not be long enough, you can extend it by simply tying another piece to it.

Diagram 1

3. Find the center of the 10-ft pieces and mark 4 inches from the center in both directions (A and B). Find the center of the 20-ft piece and mark it.

4. Starting at A, and using the center of the 20-ft piece of twine, tie square knots (Diagram 1) around all five pieces of 10-ft twine.

Work from A towards the center, past the center, until you reach B. You now have 10 ft of cord with 8 inches in the center covered by square knots.

5. Fold the knotted part over so you have an upside down U of knots and five stands of cord hanging down on either side (Diagram 2).

The knotted part will be your handle.

I. Use the left working twine to make a number 4 over the filler cords.

II. Take the right working twine and cross over the horizontal bar of the 4, behind the center cords and through the inner corner of the 4.

Tighten to complete your first knot!

III. Now use the right working twine to make a backwards 4.

IV. Take the left working twine and cross it over the backwards 4, behind the middle cords and through the inner corner. Tighten to complete your second knot. Continue knotting by alternating steps I and II with III and IV. This will ensure that your collar and lead stay flat and don’t twist around the filler cords. ■

Diagram 1: Square Knot

6. Take your working twine and continue tying square knots around both sets of hanging twine (ten strands).

7. Once you reach 5 ft, either attach hardware with a sturdy knot that will handle some heavy pulling, or leave ends free to be tied to the collar.

I

II

III

IV

For the collar: 1. Cut five pieces of twine for the filler cords. These should be your dog’s neck size plus an inch or two for ease. Add extra length to allow for overlap (if you’re using a buckle), for ties, or for attaching hardware.

Diagram 2: Handle B

A

2. Cut one 10-ft cord for your working twine. Find the center and mark it.

3. Using the center of your working twine, start tying square knots a few inches from the end of your filler cord.

4. Add beads along the way for an extra kick. To add beads, thread all your filler cords through the bead and tie your square knot around it.

B

A

B

A

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Connie’s Book Club EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CONNIE WILSON’S SELECTIONS FOR SOME GREAT SPRING READING.

PupSnacks: 35 Delicious and Healthy Recipes to Bark Home About (TFH; 2007) Stephanie Mehanna If you’re considering cooking for your dog, this handy book will inspire with cute photos of dogs eyeing tasty (and healthy) offerings any dog would sit up and beg for. At-a-glance information on canine nutrition, dietary allergies, ingredient no-no’s, and portion control is provided and most of the recipes are fast and easy, using ingredients from your local grocery store. Divided into sections such as Afternoon Tea and Tails, Training Tidbits, Hearty Hound Mains, Doggie Desserts, Paw-Lickin’ Parties and Gift Ideas, and Healthy Hounds, the recipes and presentation make whipping up some doggie entrées rewarding and fun.

Dogs in the Louvre (Flammarion; 2008) François Nourissier and Élisabeth Foucart-Walter For lovers of dogs and art history, Dogs in the Louvre is a most satisfying read.

Through the Louvre’s long history of artistic and historic conservation, the museum has amassed a magnificent body of works featuring our canine friends in sculptures, tapestries, pendants, vessels, paintings, and sketches. This treasure trove of riches is displayed in the pages of this beautiful book, guaranteed to delight anyone with an appreciation of the canine form and fine arts.

(top left) Image 2305565; Copyright line – © Reserved; Studio Lisa, Princess Elizabeth with Dookie, 1936 (top right) School of Fontainebleau (mid-sixteenth century), Diane the Huntress, c. 1550-1560. Oil on canvas (originally on panel), 6 ft. 3/4 in. x 4 ft. 4 in. (1.91 x 1.32 m), (originally 5 ft 8-3/4 in. x 3 ft. 7-1/4 in. [1.8 x 1 m]) © Musée du Louvre / Erich Lessing, from Dogs in the Louvre, by François Nourissier and Elisabeth Foucart-Walter, Paris: Flammarion/Musée du Louvre, 2007.

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Spirit Dogs: Heroes in Heaven (Owl of Athene; 1998) Susan Kelleher; illustrations by Rod Lawrence If you or someone you know has experienced the heartbreaking loss of a dog, Spirit Dogs will afford comfort. This beautifully illustrated little book provides the consoling promise of a hereafter, a doggie heaven from which our friends continue to send us their love. This book would make an excellent condolence gift.

(Crown; 2008) Justine A. Lee, DVM, DACVECC Hailed as the “veterinary equivalent of the phenomenally successful Why Do Men Have Nipples? the humourous yet educational reference book It’s a Dog’s Life… but It’s Your Carpet will scientifically answer those common, off-beat, and sometimes downright embarrassing questions you’ve always wanted to ask about dogs. Here’s a small sampling: Is a Dog’s Nose a Good Indicator of His Health? What’s the Smartest Breed? Can Dogs See Color? Why Does My Dog Drag His Butt on the Ground? What Breed is Best For Me? When Can I Start Running With My Puppy? Can I Make My Dog a Vegetarian?

Do Dogs Mourn? Why Does My Dog Roll Around in Rotting Feces? Whether you are seeking sound advice or merely wanting to be Queen of Trivia On All Things Dog, this book is an excellent resource. The author is an emergency critical-care veterinarian, so you’re in good hands.

Noble Hounds and Dear Companions: The Royal Photograph Collection (Royal Collection; 2007) Sophie Gordon Containing over a century of photographs selected from the Royal Photograph Collection, many of which have never before been published, this delightful book gives us a glimpse into the private lives of the Royal Family via the dogs they loved. The book features over 150 affectionate, amusing, and often poignant images of privileged pups playing their parts in both the private and public lives of the Royal Family from Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth II. You’ll see Pomeranians, Pugs, Dachshunds, Greyhounds, spaniels, Labradors, and more, out for a carriage ride, snuggled on a Royal lap, enjoying a picnic outing, doing guard duty at Windsor Castle, or simply doing what dogs do best—completing a family. To name just a few, there’s Noble, Queen Victoria’s faithful (and favourite) Collie; Eos, Prince Albert’s regal Greyhound, and HM Queen Elizabeth’s renowned Corgis. This book will captivate any dog lover and thrill those that are also Royal watchers.

Dump Dog (Dogsense Communications; 2007)

By Sylvia Jay Sylvia Jay is a dog trainer who learns of a five-month-old feral pup scheduled for euthanasia because it is deemed too wild to be adoptable. She brings the dog into her own interspecies pack (husband, daughter, and two dogs) and patiently guides the timid, fearful dog’s transformation into a well-behaved, loving member of the family. Written in diary fashion, Dump Dog offers more than a dry recounting of Jay’s methods, as her intelligent and respectful anthropomorphizing of her dogs’ thoughts and actions brings this book to life. As you witness Jay’s gentle and mindful training methods, you come to understand vital elements in the process of gaining trust and love, and, ultimately, in forging strong human-dog relationships. ■

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Civer UnageL The Royal Collection © 2008 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II; Unknown photographer, The Duke of York with pug, c. 1895

It’s a Dog’s Life…but It’s Your Carpet

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

ask dog lady Dear Dog Lady, I work hard as a mutual fund manager and must hire a dog walker to take care of my dog, Swiffer, during the day and sometimes at night when I work late.

Swiffer is really easy-going and seems to like whoever gives him a walk and feeds him. But I’m having a hard time holding on to a reliable dog walker. Seems whenever I find somebody who is good and shows up, he or she quits. What’s the deal with dog walkers? How can I find a reliable one? It seems a shiftless profession.

—Scott, Santa Monica, CA

Q

Scott, dog babysitting is more thankless than shiftless— unless somebody really does it for love, not money. Dog Lady has had a terrible time holding on to dependable dog walkers. The problem? It’s one of those jobs that looks good from afar but doesn’t deliver up close.

For a recent graduate or a laid-off middle manager who likes animals, the thought of opening a dog walking service conjures images of owning a small business, getting out into nature, and snuggling up to warm-fuzzies instead of battling the coldhearted pinheads of Dilbert’s world. Alas, the fantasy is much rosier than the reality.

A

To make money, a walker must walk a lot of dogs, either as a pack or one by one.

Walkers on city streets hold tightly onto leashes like chariot drivers from Ben Hur as they wrangle a herd of dogs. Unless these multi-mutt walkers are supremely skilled in maintaining control, the dogs can become skittish or aggressive and the small dogs can get lost in a thicket of legs. If the dogs are walked one by one, the minder inevitably cuts corners to squeeze in more clients.

Often, the center does not hold and burnout occurs. Dogs pay for the impatience.

Human patrons become disgruntled, fearing for the safety of their beloved animals.

Dog Lady employed Korean sisters to take Darling out for his afternoon walk.

In the beginning, they ferried him to his favourite park. They left behind charming haiku-ish notes with exclamation points: “He went into water today and ran a lot! He was like little hunter without gun!” The sisters charged very little and always seemed so cheerful.

In the Dog Lady household, we wagered such a walking wonderland probably wouldn’t last. And it hasn’t. The haiku dropped off to simple “yes” or “no” if Darling pooped and peed. Finally, one sister got a full-time job; the other sister announced she could only walk the dog once a week.

It’s a pain to keep hiring dog sitters but there will always be a fresh supply, advertising their services on bulletin boards at the vet’s office, neighbourhood pet stores or in the “pets” section on Craigslist.com.

Remember to do thorough interviews.

Have each candidate meet your dog. Ask for references. Do not hire anyone over the phone. Each time a new dog walker makes a fresh start, you can enjoy a few weeks of enthusiastic work, which means Swiffer will get his money’s worth.

Dear Dog Lady, My husband and I recently brought home a three-year-old Pomeranian, Wrigley, from a rescue shelter. She is a sweet girl and loves people, yet we have a burning question. Sometimes our Pom will get up next to us on the couch and just stare at us with her ears down. We pet her and kiss her but she just continues to stare. What’s wrong? Are we doing something to make her nervous?—Kerry, Chicago, IL Kerry, you exist. This makes Wrigley nervous. But don’t take it personally.

Dogs’ stares can sometimes be eerie and unsettling. It’s as if they peer into our souls and illuminate insecurities and doubts—as Wrigley sets you and your husband on edge.

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ask dog lady Dogs stare at us when they want something. Try chewing filet mignon with a dog in your face. They also stare to tell us what they need: “Take me out!” Or, “I’m gonna be sick!” In all likelihood, Wrigley stares at you because she’s getting to know you and still figuring out the relationship. She flattens her ears in submission or insecurity because she’s confused and humbled. Imagine she’s thinking: “Who are these people and what do they want from me?”

The best thing you can do is have a staring contest with her. Stare back and hold your gaze until Wrigley averts her eyes. This is the silent sign of respect your dog gives you, which means she accepts you as her leader. Once she looks away, rub her tummy to let her know you’re a very nice boss. (Kisses really don’t do it for dogs. It’s all about the belly rub).

Dear Dog Lady, About a year and a half before I moved to San Francisco, I adopted Maltball, a short, squat, brown-haired mix from a shelter in Nevada. All I knew about her was that she’d been surrendered by someone who had moved out of state and she’d probably do best in a home without children. Maltball has turned out to be a total sweetheart. She’s very well behaved and friendly.

When I recently went back to Nevada to visit my sister, I dropped by the shelter where I got Maltball. We were chatting and one of the staffers dropped the bomb that Maltball had been given to the shelter by an attorney after the owner was convicted of murder.

My Maltball was raised and named by a murderer. I wonder if she witnessed the crime itself. This shouldn’t make a difference, right? I can’t help being shaken by the news.

—Mary, San Francisco, CA

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Mary: nope, shouldn’t make a difference at all, although Dog Lady completely understands your tremors. Silent, sad-eyed dogs are not transparent. They reflect back to us all our fears and joys.

Looking into Maltball’s face and wondering what she knows has probably become more laden with mystery. Please understand your dog is not tainted. She’s Mary’s angel with a sugary name.

And who knows? The murderer’s softest spot might have been his or her care for Maltball.

Dog Lady chides the gossipy shelter worker who spilled this juicy but irrelevant tidbit. Ideally, shelter staffers should relay only cogent behavioural information from the history of an adoptee animal to better guide a new caretaker. Forget about your dog’s past. You’ve saved Maltball from death row and given her a new life sentence.

This satisfaction alone should overwhelm any creepiness.

Dear Dog Lady, My eight-month-old Border Terrier, Fenway, has recently taken to short bursts of extreme energy, running frantically around my house and chasing his tail. The rest of the day he lounges and sleeps. He gets a three-mile walk four times a week, and spends 30 to 45 minutes of play time outside on the other days, in addition

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ask dog lady

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Rebecca, should Dog Lady be concerned about her dear dog’s mental state when he runs frantically around the house grappling a tattered stuffed animal before attempting to bury the rag baby in the couch cushion? Probably—if he had two legs. But he’s of the four-legged variety and this crazy stuff is what they do. Fenway’s tail chasing is harmless provided he doesn’t display any aggression such as snarling or tail biting. If he exhibits such ferocities, you should take him to a veterinarian.

Congratulations on giving Fenway such a rich outdoor life. Threemile walks and lots of play time are a puppy’s delight. You tire him out enough so he sleeps contentedly through most of the day, except, of course, for that frantic tail chase. Chalk it up to exuberant puppy loopiness.

Dear Dog Lady, I have a nine-year-old son. We have had our dog for 18 months. I am going through a divorce and my soon-to-be ex hates the dog. I have him at my new house but we are never home. I hate leaving the dog, Blue, kenneled up all day and sometimes till late in the evening. I have tried to get my son to give up the dog but he loves the dog. My son is only with me every other week. I am losing an income with the divorce and don’t feel I can handle the expense. I also don’t have the time for the dog. How do I break the news to my son without him hating me? Do I say the dog ran away?

—Jenni, Vancouver, BC Jenni, please do your research and find a very good home for Blue. Put an ad in the local newspaper, post on petfinder.com, and/or contact your local no-kill (important) animal shelter for assistance.

You are not providing a good life for this dog, even if your son is attached to it every other week. Dog Lady gives you this advice reluctantly because she knows the dog may represent the only warm and stable creature in your son’s life right now since you and his father (who hates the dog) are divorcing. However, for the dog’s health and future happiness, separation from your unstable family is probably the best course.

Blue is young and will be fine. Your son is young and he will be fine too—as long as you talk over this situation with him as sensitively as you can. Lead him to the conclusion that a constantly caged-up dog—one who only has fun with your son every other week—is not a happy animal. Involve your son in finding a new good home for Blue.

Telling him the dog ran away or was sent to the proverbial “farm in the country” is too easy. If your child finds out the truth, he could be even more traumatized. You want him to learn how to care responsibly for dependent creatures, not sleaze out of situations. Deal with this situation soon so as not to prolong the pain. ■ Visit askdoglady.com to ask a question or make a comment.

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Beau oil on canvas

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KayKlotzbach.com 114 moderndog

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The Party

Hippie Hound Spend a 60s-inspired afternoon with your dog. Whip up some Happy Brownies, throw on a gather up some herbs and flowers—it’s project time! Far out.

I LLU ST R A T IO N JE SS G O LDE N

Jefferson Airplane album, and

Happy Brownies

Did you know?

2 1/2 cups unbleached flour

Anise has a particular effect on some dogs

2 tsp baking soda

that parallels that of catnip on cats.

2 tsp carob powder 1 cup carob chips 1 Tbsp ground anise (Pimpinella anisum, not to be confused with star anise) --------------------------------------------------------1 cup ripe mashed banana 1/2 cup peanut butter 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce 3 large eggs 1/2 cup water --------------------------------------------------------Preheat oven to 250˚F. Combine dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, carob powder, carob chips, and anise) in mixing bowl. In a separate mixing bowl, beat together mashed banana and applesauce until creamy. Add eggs and water. Beat well. Stir in dry ingredients. Add peanut butter and mix together. Pour batter into non-stick baking dish. Bake for 30 - 45 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool

PROJECT Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair Herbal infusions make wonderful

Boil 2 cups of water and pour over

rinses and spritzes for canine coats.

the tea bag and loose herbs of your

Use this mixture as a final rinse in

choice. Cover and steep for 10-15

your dog’s bath ritual. Or wipe messy

minutes. Remove tea bag. Cool, then

food face with it—it’s mildly scented

strain to remove loose herbs. Add

so will not bother sensitive noses.

organic vinegar and glycerin. To use

You can also decant it to a spray

as a bath-time rinse, dilute this solu-

bottle and lightly mist your dog’s

tion with one or two cups of water;

coat when grooming. Peppermint and

for a grooming spritz, leave undiluted.

chamomile are great year round—

Make sure to label (date, ingredients

they keep your dog smelling fresh

used) and refrigerate leftover infu-

and help with any post-hike or swim

sion. Note: If you are using roots,

itchiness.

seeds, or barks such as ginger, fennel, or valerian root, soak them in

in baking dish for one hour. Cut into bite-size squares and watch Woofer drool.

Recipe courtesy of K9 Biscuit company, a Vancouver-based bakery where nutrition is paramount. Too lazy to cook? Order goodies online at k9biscuit.com.

You’ll need:

cool water overnight and then boil for

1 Tbsp organic cider vinegar

10-15 minutes before following the

1 chamomile, rosemary, or pepper-

above steps.

■

mint herbal tea bag Loose herbs such as nettle, comfrey leaf and/or calendula leaf A few drops of glycerin (optional) moderndogmagazine.com

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Pup your Ride Dog is our co-pilot. Modern Dog test drives rides for you and your four-legged pal.

Honda Element The unique, boxy styling of this vehicle makes for an aesthetic bumping up somewhere between fashionable and uber-capable, go-anywhere utility. Although its shape may not be for everyone, both you and your dog will agree on the versatility of the Element.

This is an excellent vehicle for those with an eye for style and an active lifestyle, easily transforming from business workhorse to an outdoor enthusiast’s 4-wheel-drive dream machine. It’s fun to drive (especially the manual transmission models) with a great sound system, lots of cool storage space in doors and dash, and a powerful yet surprisingly fuel-efficient 2.4-litre i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine. Plus, its low emissions (Tier 2 Bin 5 rating) make every getaway a cleaner one, assuaging the consciences of the ecologically-minded. The sixty different seating configurations are very impressive; to house your canine companion(s), extra cargo space is gained by flipping up and clipping the rear seats to the sides of the cabin, or they can simply be removed altogether. Gain easy access to the cargo area by folding down the clamshell tailgate.

Plus the flat-folding driver and front passenger seats allow you to totally stretch out and relax or sleep. And no need to worry about pet ramps with the Element, because dogs can step into the car from the sidewalk at grade. With its washable urethane-coated utility floor and available waterproof Fabric for Extreme Conditions seat material, dog lovers will especially appreciate the ease in keeping this vehicle clean.

HON D A C AN A D A , H O N D A . C A

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Honda Pilot Honda lives up to its reputation for quality and performance with the Honda Pilot V6-engine SUV. Luxurious and roomy with an excellent sound system, good ergonomics, straightforward controls, and abundant 12V power outlets throughout, it comfortably accommodates up to eight people. The upgrade to leather seats and satellite-linked navigation with rearview camera (no chance of accidentally running over Rover!) and off-road tracking are definitely worth considering.

The middle and back seats can be folded down to provide maximum stowage so bigger dogs have plenty of room to stretch out in the back; however, without a pet ramp, some will need help with the hop up. The optional roll-out cargo liner protects the bumper from scratches, which could really save on wear and tear, especially where Rover’s concerned. The available Variable Torque Management 4wheel drive system provides peace of mind in poor driving conditions while the Vehicle Stability Assist enhances cornering and handling stability. The 3.5L VTEC engine is powerful yet surprisingly fuel-efficient, making “getting there” fun and affordable.

Powerful yet surprisingly fuel-efficient, the Pilot makes “getting there” fun and affordable.

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Subaru Forester

With Subaru’s outstanding safety record, you’ll have peace of mind should Tippy take the car out for a spin.

Chances are, you won’t realize just how many Subaru Foresters are on the road until you test drive this compact SUV; although their rugged, unassuming style can make them easy to overlook, you shouldn’t, as Subaru’s popularity is based on a strong reputation for well-engineered cars that stand the test of time.

The Forester’s peppy 2.5L Subaru Boxer engine gives all the power needed to negotiate steep mountain passes, while still being extremely fuel efficient. If going green is your scene, some models are certified Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle which means they have 90 percent cleaner emissions than the average new vehicle. Standard on the Forester is symmetrical full-time all-wheel-drive, which you’ll appreciate on snowy roads—no slipping, sliding, or loss of traction. Both you and your dog will love the roomy, easily accessible cargo area, coated and rubberized for easy maintenance (comes with handy cargo cover and tray) and rear seats that fold down so you’ll have plenty of room and flexibility to arrange the space as you need it. The compact size makes it a breeze to drive in the city as well as to park. The well-equipped and nicely laid-out interior is pleasing and functional and has no blind spots. And with Subaru’s outstanding safety record—they have the highest possible crash test rating on every car they build—you’ll have peace of mind should Tippy take the car out for a spin without your permission. moderndogmagazine.com

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There seems to be a competition on how to build the most embarrassing-looking CUV. Luckily, the Santa Fe opted out of this, instead offering clean, contemporary lines that make it one of the best-looking CUVs out there. Its modern and sexy dashboard has every button you’ve ever wanted to press, with dash lights, gauges, and displays that glow blue, and popular features such as seat heaters and passenger-side heat control. With a smooth 5-speed automatic transmission and rear and front disc brakes, the drive is sharp, accurate, and powerful, offering up 3.3 litres and 242 hp at 226lbs of torque.

The multi-link rear suspension keeps you glued to the road.

When driving the Santa Fe, you feel like you are in a sporty sedan (especially when you fill ‘er up) but the spacious interior with back seats that fold down still lets you help your roommate move out. Rover will be happy because you can plug accessories like his heated/air conditioned pet bed into the convenient electrical and AC outlets and everyone will appreciate the safety features: dual front, side, and curtain airbags, electronic stability control, traction control system, front/rear disc brakes with anti-lock braking, electronic brake force distribution, and brake assist. The doorways are wide, making it easy to load up the spacious interior and the leather seats are easy to wipe clean of any dirt or debris Rover should track in. A pet ramp or step may be required for older or less-mobile dogs to enter the rear cargo area.

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Jeep Commander—Limited Whether in snow, ice, or treacherous mountain terrain, the Jeep Commander lives up to its makers’ promise to take you “confidently where others may fear to tread.” With headlights that automatically adjust brightness, a 4WD system equipped with no-slip technology and rain-sensing automatic wipers, it’s so effortless to maneuver, your dog could almost drive it. And best of all, it’s fun. It accelerates quickly thanks to a powerful engine (4.7L V8 power) that’s still good on gas—the engine transforms to an efficient 4-cylinder when cruising at higher speeds—and the smooth-shifting, multi-speed automatic transmission provides fully automated shifting or manual gear selection through Electronic Range Select. The Flex Fuel engine runs on both unleaded gasoline and E85 (85 percent ethanol, 15 percent gasoline), a fuel derived from corn that allows for cleaner burning emissions.

Although pricier than the Sport model, the Limited’s heated leather seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable pedals, 6-speaker sound system (including satellite radio), key-fob rear cargo door controls, and a power sunroof with twin skylights for your aft-seated passengers, will likely convince you the upgrade is worth it. Jeep’s typical good looks, highlighting a boxy, utilitarian design, exude both capability and luxuriousness, while its spacious interior offers maximum room and optimal seating arrangements for the comfort of your fur kids or up to seven human passengers (there are 15 different seating/cargo configurations creating ample cargo space—for a big dog kennel, for example.). Last but not least, there are numerous cubbies and bins to store Chipper’s toys, treats, and gear. As with most SUVs, unless your dog is spry, she’ll need some help from you or a pet ramp to get aboard. ■

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TheFabFive >Top Trainers

Answer Your Questions

Ask Jennifer Messer

Q:

I recently heard that dogs don’t reach maturity until age two. Is this why Lola, my terrier mix, a formerly quiet dog, became a barking terror upon entering her terrible twos?—Vanessa, Brooklyn, NY

A:

Just as our perception of the world we live in changes as we mature and accumulate life experience, so does that of our canine companions. Two dogs may perceive the same smells, sights, and sounds, but the meaningfulness of this information is affected by their level of maturity and respective life experiences.

Imagine the phone ringing at 3 am in a household with a young child and an adult. To the child, it is simply an unusual time for the phone to ring; to an adult, it signals the possibility of an emergency— most would be jarred from the depths of sleep and answer the phone with some degree of trepidation. This response is due in part to life experience and in part to maturity.

Dogs go through a series of developmental stages early in life, the last of which is social maturity, usually reached between about one and three years of age. This is the transition to adulthood, when their relationships with other dogs and people become more fixed, and their role in the group they live in reflects this.

As socially mature animals, adult dogs will sometimes react to things differently from the way they did as young puppies or juveniles. Social maturity is a time when dogs may begin to behave fearfully or aggressively in certain situations, both because these situations are more meaningful to the mature, more experienced

dog and because the dog is now taking on the role of an adult.

Both life experience AND social development can lead a formerly quiet dog to begin barking. For instance, if Lola has started to bark only when people arrive at your home, it is probably due to both: she has learned from life experience that a knock at the door means a stranger is arriving and she is mature enough to respond appropriately with an alarm bark.

Social maturity is a time when dogs may begin to behave fearfully or aggressively in certain situations.

When a dog is on the cusp of a new developmental stage, it can be hard to discern the cause of a change in behaviour—how do we know whether Lola is being a loudmouth as a result of life experience, being on the brink of adulthood, or a combination of both? The truth is, we can’t know for certain. However, a thorough inventory of her experiences surrounding the new barking incidents may give us clues.

If she started barking in your apartment, could there be a new tenant?

Construction? A sneaky cat terrorizing her through the window? If she is barking at other dogs, is it all dogs or just large dogs that resemble the bully that taunted her recently at the park? If she has started barking at your boyfriend, could he have done something that frightened her? Or does barking get her good butler service?

If you come up empty looking for life experiences that explain the change in behaviour and she is not suffering from any medical problems that might cause her to bark more, then social maturity is a safe second bet.

The good news is that you can set about training her to quiet down without even being certain of the cause of her newfound noisiness. If she seems worried when she is barking, your job is to figure out what is worrying her and build her confidence back up. If she doesn’t seem at all distressed when she is barking, you must figure out what she is trying to manipulate with her bark request, and make sure she no longer succeeds!

Diligent observation and gentle training will usually work well to hush a noisemaker, especially if you address the problem early on. ■ Jennifer Messer is a veterinarian working in Ottawa, Ontario. She has an honours BA in psychology from McGill University and a DVM from the Ontario Veterinary College, and is curriculum consultant for Montessaurus Puppy School. She is owned by her Pit Bull, Charlotte, and her Beagle, Mr. F. Bender.

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TheFabFive

>Top Trainers

Answer Your Questions

Ask Teoti Anderson

Ask Pamela Reid

Q:

Q:

In choosing a puppy from a litter, is it best to go with the most playful puppy in hopes of a friendly disposition or to choose a more laid back, shy, and quiet pup in hope that the puppy will have an even disposition and will not be a holy terror?—Alessa, Athens, GA

A:

What an excellent question!

This is important information you should always get before you choose a puppy. Because let’s face it, once you see that litter of cute fluffballs, what once was a logical human being will turn into a quivering mass only able to produce gooey vowel sounds. If you’re ready to fall in love with a new puppy, let’s make sure you bring home a puppy that’ll be a love.

When choosing from a litter of puppies, you don’t want the boldest, most outgoing puppy. You also don’t want the shy, timid puppy. You actually want the puppy in the middle.

The puppy that bowls everyone over to get to you and won’t let the other puppies get near you isn’t “choosing you for his special someone.” He’s guarding you from the rest of the pack. There’s a difference. This is a pushy puppy, and one that could end up being a pushy adult dog.

The shy puppy that stays back from the litter and doesn’t readily approach you is not a good choice, either. This is a shy and potentially fearful puppy.

You want the puppy that: • approaches you happily when you call and gesture to him; • seems to enjoy the company of people; • enjoys being handled all over his body. Touch the puppy’s feet, tail and ears. It’s okay if he gets fidgety or tries to mouth you a little bit, but if he’s really getting agitated and starts growling, this is not the puppy for you.

• plays nicely with the other puppies. Think about it as a puppy playground. Is there a puppy that’s always on top of the others and doesn’t let go when his brother or sister yelps? This is not the puppy to bring home; this is the playground bully.

It may not seem exciting to bring home an “average” puppy, but the truth is that average puppies are well-balanced puppies.

Remember the words of Goldilocks from the Three Bears story as you look at that adorable litter of puppies: some will be too pushy, some will be too timid. But one will be juuust right for you. ■ Teoti Anderson, CPDT, owns Pawsitive Results, LLC (getpawsitiveresults.com), and is the past president of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. She is the author of Your Outta Control Puppy, Super Simple Guide to Housetraining, Quick and Easy Crate Training, and Puppy Care and Training.

My dog is more than happy to go out for walks with me, regardless of the weather, but when co-workers she knows and loves attempt to take her out for a walk at work, she puts on the brakes and doesn’t want to go. I want her to go out and get some exercise!

Why is she being such a weirdo? Dogs are supposed to love walks, aren’t they?—Andrew, Las Cruces, NM

A:

Yes, dogs do love their walks, but for many, there is something they love even more and that’s their people. For your dog to go for a walk with someone else means she’s leaving you behind and that’s not appealing to her.

She’s not being a weirdo at all.

Dogs are highly social animals that prefer to live in stable social groups. And they are “doggedly” determined to keep the members of their group together.

There are times when I would like my husband to walk our eldest dog while I ride my bike with the two younger pups, but it never works out. The dogs, including the old guy, keep running back and forth between us, becoming more and more frantic as we get farther apart. It’s clearly tortuous for them; it’s in their nature to want to keep us together.

However, there is a way that I think you can teach your dog to go for walks with your coworkers. You need to fool her into thinking she’s going out to search for you. Leave your office and arrange for a colleague to go collect your dog. When she puts on the brakes, try bribing her with treats or, if she’s small enough, carry her out the first couple of times. You should be waiting for them just outside the front door. She will rejoice, having found you, and the three of you can go for a short walk together.

Do this a few times until your dog is willingly going with your coworkers to search for you. Then wait at various points along a predetermined route so your dog begins to view these walks as opportunities to find you. You’ll have to invest a bit of time in the beginning, but eventually your dog should be comfortable going for walks, as she’s thinking you’ve gone and got yourself lost again and she has to get out there to find you! ■

Pamela Reid, PhD, is a certified applied animal behaviourist and author of Excelerated Learning: Explaining (in Plain English) How Dogs Learn and How Best to Teach Them. She heads the Animal Behavior Center at the ASPCA and lives in New Jersey with her dogs Eejit, Fidget, and Grifter.

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TheFabFive

>Top Trainers

Answer Your Questions

Ask Ian Dunbar

Q:

Cocoa is very loving and jumps on everyone when she’s excited. She also has this annoying habit of trying to lick our faces A LOT! One kiss would be fine, but this is too much. She is a Lab mix, about six years old. She loves people. Any suggestions?—Karen, by email

A:

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Yes, it is pretty obvious that Cocoa loves people and that, of course, is truly wonderful.

However, maybe she expresses her love a little too vigorously and at inopportune moments. But before we get frustrated or angry with Cocoa simply because of her overexuberance, let’s think of an appropriate way that she can greet you and express her excitement.

I would teach her to sit as the default setting when greeting people using “all-or-none” reward training techniques.

Invite a bunch of people to your house for a dog training party.

Instruct each guest to take a number of pieces of kibble from a container by your front door before ringing the doorbell. Today, Cocoa is going to be hand fed by guests for sitting to say hello.

Once invited indoors, each guest should stand still and wait for She expresses her Cocoa to sit. The visitor must ignore love a little too everything else that Cocoa may do, vigorously and including jumping up and licking.

Cocoa will soon learn that these are at inopportune activities that go unrewarded and, moments. eventually, she will sit.

When she does, the guest should praise her and give her kibble while she remains sitting. If Cocoa resumes jumping at any point, everyone should simply ignore her and wait for her to sit again. Have each guest leave through your back door and re-enter through your front door to greet Cocoa at least half a dozen times.

Once Cocoa greets people in a mannerly fashion, I would then consider teaching her that it is acceptable to jump up and hug, but only when requested. Similarly, I would teach her that one lick is acceptable but again, only when requested. Also, you might consider having her lick the back of your hand rather than your face.

Please bear in mind all the other things that dogs lick—like, for example, their rear ends! ■ Dr. Ian Dunbar is a veterinarian, animal behaviourist, dog trainer, and author of several books and DVDs. He is the Founder of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (apdt.com) and co-creator of dogSTARdaily.com—a daily magazine for dog owners.

TheFabFive

>Top Trainers

Answer Your Questions

Ask Nicole Wilde

Q:

I feed both my dogs—one a larger and older Lab, the other a tiny, younger Pug—at the same time, but Chooch, the Pug, always waits until Kyla has gobbled her dinner before slowly deigning to eat her meal, lording it over the larger dog, who looks on salivating. Is this a problem? Or just a power struggle playing out?

Occasionally Kyla will lunge at the food but we pull her back lest Chooch go hungry. Should we stop refereeing and just leave them to their own devices?

—Karla, Los Angeles, CA

A:

Females can be so manipulative! And in this case, I mean that as a compliment.

You’ve got to admire how much intelligence and will power it takes for hungry little Chooch to restrain herself as Kyla eats, and only then, to take her time with her own meal. If only she could handle your in-laws for you.

While Chooch is obviously enjoying herself, this situation is an accident waiting to happen.

Kyla has already demonstrated a willingness to lunge at Chooch’s food and confrontations can only This situation is an worsen from here. Regardless accident waiting of which dog thinks she’s in to happen. charge, you are ultimately the one who rules the roost. Just as you wouldn’t tolerate bickering and power plays between your children, you shouldn’t tolerate this type of behaviour from your dogs.

The easiest solution is to separate Chooch and Kyla at mealtimes. Place one indoors and one out, put them in separate rooms, or put them in their crates. I have no doubt that Kyla, a credit to her breed, will eat right away. If Chooch still hasn’t eaten hers after ten minutes, even in her own space without Kyla nearby, remove the food. You’ll no doubt have one perplexed Pug on your hands. But with repetition, Chooch will quickly learn that not eating right away means not eating, period. And being the smart girl that she is, she’ll soon focus on eating instead of playing games. ■ Nicole Wilde holds a B.A. Degree with a heavy emphasis on psychology. She is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) who specializes in behaviour issues, and a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). Nicole is the author of six canine-related books including Help for Your Fearful Dog and So You Want to be a Dog Trainer.

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We Support Rescue Organizations!

Modern Dog believes in supporting the efforts of rescue organizations and their volunteers. We do not accept advertising dollars from known puppy mills and our Donation Program was designed solely to help raise rescue dollars. We believe that When it comes to providing consistent, competitive, and quality end-to-end print services, we’ve discovered that distance is irrelevant. Our investment in technology, adherence to strict processes, and competitive pricing have proven time and time again to be exactly what our out-of-town

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• PET ADOPTION - Adoption specialists will be on hand to help you find that perfect family pet in need of a new home.

ADMISSION PRICES: Adults: $12 Seniors (60+): $8 Youths (10-17) $8 Children Under 5: Free Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Youths): $35 SHOW HOURS: Friday: 10 am – 6 pm Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm

Regrettably, visitors are not permitted to bring their pets to the show.

• Exotic sounds and beautiful colors await you in the WORLD OF BIRDS. • Shop from over 170 exhibitors with GREAT SHOW SPECIALS on pet products and services.

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2008 Show Sponsors:

For more information contact us at 1-877-340-PETS (7387) or visit our website www.allaboutpetsshow.com

Horoscopes

By Esther Louisa Rose, Psychic of the Stars • Illustrations by Kathy Weller

Aries (March 21 to Apr 19) You are in need of an attitude adjustment. Bum rushing the mailman and “greeting” the neighbour in a frenzy is not earning you new friends. Try offering a thoughtful introduction, such as, “Woofer, this is Diane. Diane enjoys horseback riding and romance novels. Woofer enjoys liver and rolling in stink.” Much more civilized.

Taurus (Apr 20 to May 20) Warm hearts and cold noses collide at the dog park this spring. So wear your best smile and your heart on your collar, for between “in like a lion” and “out like a lamb,” it’s totally “in, like, puppy love.”

Gemini (May 21 to June 20) Big changes are afoot, both at home and at work. You could be up for a big promotion or a change of employment. On the home front, the addition of a child or a cat could put some strain on an already tenuous relationship. Try not to pick fights. And stay out of the litter box.

Cancer (June 21 to July 22) Existential question: If poop is scooped in the forest and there’s no one around to see it, does that still mean it was scooped?

Cancer, you crave recognition for your virtue but remember that a good deed is its own reward.

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Leo (July 23 to Aug 22) Love and a whiff of unwashed dog is in the air. Get yourself to the groomers so you can say “yes, please do come in” when opportunity comes knocking (as opposed to “RaghRaghRaghRagh” or, worse yet, silently generating the undesired response of “P.U.”).

Virgo (Aug 23 to Sept 22) Mouthy Virgo, you have obviously never heard the words “silence is golden.” There is a time for alarm barking, joy barking, and, yes, even pointless barking, but this round-the-clock yapping is doing you no favours. Like the boy who cried wolf, you may be soon known as the dog who cried woof.

And no good can come of that.

Libra (Sept 23 to Oct 22) At heart, you’re a dogooder. So why not do your heart some good with some old-fashioned volunteer work? Foster a dog. Offer to take the neighbour’s under-socialized offspring on a play date. Or at least volunteer to lay off the cat a while. Consider yourself a shining example of selflessness.

Scorpio (Oct 23 to Nov 21) Your overzealous nature has gotten you in trouble in the past but this spring your enthusiasm is earning you nothing but props. Your tail knocks over that ugly vase from the in-laws? No harm, no foul. Those unattended leftovers you scarfed down? You’re a diet saviour. For once your god-given exuberance seems to be appreciated by all. Amen!

Sagittarius (Nov 22 to Dec 21) Even you, the social-est of butterflies, will be daunted by spring’s frenetic social schedule.

Barkmitzvahs abound. Bark and whines follow up muttrimonials. It’s exhausting just thinking about it. Good thing you’re a party animal; a mere mutt would be unprepared for this kind of party commitment.

Capricorn (Dec 22 to Jan 19) Food-obsessive Capricorn, take a lesson from Fifi (darned French Poodle can eat whatever she wants): practice moderation. So pass on the whole box of diet biscuits and instead enjoy just one full-fat, super-tasty treat. Wearing a beret can’t hurt, either, when attempting to deflect attention from one’s midsection.

Aquarius (Jan 20 to Feb 18) Publishing, children, and travel are all favoured this season.

That shelved autobarkography? Get on it! A game of fetch with the neighbour kid? No time like the present! That long overdue visit to the Louvre? Start working on a disguise. This is a golden time, so enjoy it.

Pisces (Feb 19 to March 20) You may be stepping on some toes at work in the months to come. Keep in mind there’s a reason your boss calls herself Top Dog and tread carefully.

Be prepared for her to claim your ideas as her own (like she thought of the all-canine roller derby staff appreciation night) or prepare to part ways.

Perfect Balance for Optimum

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lastlick

PHOTOGRAPHED

BY EYDIS EINARSDOTTIR

(clockwise from top left) Louis, a Shih Tzu, wears a tee with studs, Paris Erotica, and fleur-de-lis necktie, Paris Hilton; both at Barking Babies (barkingbabies.com).

Chicken, an Affenpinscher, wears red check hoodie, at Barking Babies (barkingbabies.com) Primo, a Toy Poodle, wears a goth Hello Kitty dress, Little Lily (littlelily.com); charm necklaces with glow-in-the-dark skulls, Tarina Tarantino; and skull-and-crossbones choker with black rhinestones, Buddy G’s, all at Barking Babies (barkingbabies.com).

Cinderella, a Yorkshire Terrier, wears “Spark” cheerleader suit; at Barking babies (barkingbabies.com).

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144 moderndog

PHOTOGRAPHED

BY EYDIS EINARSDOTTIR

S PR ING 2008

(clockwise from top left) Archie Cooper, a Goldendoodle, wears a North Carolina basketball jersey, Sporty K9 (sportyk9.com), and sterling silver chain lead (barkingbabies.com).

Keilo, a Puggle, wears dreadlock wig, Wiggles (wigglesdogwigs.com), and plays with Rasta ball, Fab Dog (fabdog.com).

Chicken, an Affenpinscher, wears red check hoodie, at Barking Babies (barkingbabies.com) Gizmo, a Chihuahua, wears “Spark� tracksuit; at Barking Babies (barkingbabies.com).

Frame: Marilyn Muttroe (large) with Pooch Diddy Bada Bling Bones Swarovski ® Finish: Asphalt Cushion: Leopard Combo Model: Lulabell (rescue dog)

Why shouldn’t their furniture make a statement like yours?

CANINE & KITTY COUTURE FOR THE

HOME WWW

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A Breed Apart

Golden Retrievers are known for their long golden coat, but among vets, they are known for “hot spots”, lesions that can develop on the skin. Golden Retriever 25 diet is specifically formulated with a synergistic complex of B vitamins and amino acids, along with biotin, folic acid, selenium and high levels of vitamins A & E to strengthen and protect the skin.

Antioxidants for Mental Alertness Golden Retrievers are extremely intelligent and learn easily. Feeding Golden Retriever 25 diet, which contains optimal levels of antioxidants like lutein, taurine, green tea polyphenols and vitamins E & C, will help to keep your Golden Retriever’s mind sharp as it ages.

L-carnitine and Antioxidants Golden Retrievers are big-hearted dogs - that’s part of what makes them the ideal family dog. But those ”big hearts“ are prone to hereditary heart conditions like cardiomyopathy. Omega essential fatty acids and amino acids, like taurine, L-carnitine and arginine in Golden Retriever 25 diet work together to protect the heart.

Specially engineered kibble to curb overeating.

Plus, sodium tripolyphosphate promotes dental health by helping to reduce the formation of plaque and tartar.

Actual Size

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Questions? Contact Royal Canin consumeraffairscanada@royalcanin.ca

Learn about your Golden Retriever!

Join PetFirst today for information and customized offers. It’s free. www.petfirst.ca

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1-800-527-2673

www.moderndogmagazine.com

Tailor-made health nutrition for your Golden Retriever

How to reduce your dog’s eco footprint

Ellen!

“I’m the most honest person you will ever meet— to a fault.”

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The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions SPRING 2008

Coat of gold, heart of gold

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