Modern Dog Summer 2009 by Modern Dog Magazine

The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions

Brain Boosting Games Increase your

SUMMeR 2009

136 pages

of summer fun, from pupsicles to DIY toys

canine’s IQ

10 “People”

Foods for a Healthier Dog

PublicationsAgreement AgreementNumber Number40743013 40743013 Return ReturnMail MailDept, Dept,202–343 202–343Railway RailwaySt., St.,Vancouver, Vancouver,BC BCV6A V6A1A4 1A4 Publications

Budget Buys Stuff your dog

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vol 8

no 2

pho To Ta n ya Kin g

summer 2009

Features

Picasso’s Dogs Muse and mascot: the artist’s life-long love affair with his canine companions. By Stanley Coren

The Nose Knows Put your dog’s 220 million olfactory receptors to work in this activity that works both canine body and mind. By PatriCia Komar

Personality Tests and the Modern Dog Predicting canine behavioural traits through validating testing. By reBeCCa ledger

The Stoned Angel How one small dog started leaving her mark. By PatriCia Penny

We’ll Always Have Utah Me and Jack and my new Best Friends. By mary-Jo dionne

Rachelle Lefevre: One Soy Latté and a Dash of Honey An exclusive interview with the Twilight actress. By mary-Jo dionne

Brain Boosting Games Sharpen Fido’s cognitive function with these easy to set up games designed to keep your dog mentally quick. By Jennifer meSSer When a Puppy Cries A young girl saves a puppy—and is saved right back. By Carreen maloney

The Modern Dog’s Guide to Toronto Where to shop, eat, stay, and play. By Karin SinKeviCiuS

4 moderndog

summer 2009

phoTo Kharen hill

style 39

Budget Buys Cool dog stuff under $20.

Ruff and Rugged Essential gear for the great outdoors.

Looking for Love PhotograPhed By tanya King

Play! Floating, flying fun.

103 Doggie Styles Fun stuff for feisty pups and their people.

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BODy anD sOul 68

15 Minutes to a Better Bond with your Dog

Heart and Soul: Five Ways to Make a Difference, Now

Probiotics The buzz on bugs.

101

By elizaBeth PaSK and laura SCott

10 “People” Foods for Better Health By elizaBeth PaSK and laura SCott

The Doctor’s In A cure for flaky skin.

pain Tin g D ia n a be TTe riDge

BreeD PrOFile 28

The Portuguese Water Dog Presidential pooch elect. By marian

BueChert

regular Features 8 10 12 16 23 25 121 133

Editor’s Letter Contributors Our Readers Write The Scoop Pup Profiles Calendar of Events Marketplace Giveaways

cOver lOOk Actress Rachelle LeFevre and Honey, her rescued mix-breed puppy. Rachelle wears a BCBG Max Azria dress and Alex and Ani necklace. Honey wears her own sweet fur. Photographed by Kharen Hill. Hair, Marcus Franci; Makeup, Tiffany Johnson; Styling, Clare Mukherjee.

6 moderndog

summer 2009

PH OTO TANyA kING

living

Stuff We Love Modern Dog staffers’ picks of the litter.

D.I.Y. Eat Make your own healthy dog treats.

No Boundaries Interspecies friendships that know no bounds. By Corey van’t haaff

101 Art Attack Profile in style: artist Diana Betteridge. By marni Wedin

105 Connie’s Book Club Hit the beach with a good dog and a good book. Editor-in-Chief Connie Wilson’s summer reading selections. 109 Ask Dog Lady Dog Lady delves into your most dogged dilemmas. 114 20+ Ideas for Summer Fun Good canine fun: super suggestions for making the most of the season. By Karin SinKeviCiuS 117 Help is Here! Ask a Expert Our Fab Five answer your most pressing training questions. 134 Travel Diary The Phu Quoc Dogs of Vietnam. By elizaBeth gardiner

In USA: MODeRN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 8, Issue 2. Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 06111-4003. Periodicals postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices. POSTMASTeR: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402.

PHOTO LINDSey DONOVAN

eD itOr ’s le t t e r

’ve been thinking a lot lately about the bond we share with animals, in part because I’m reading a fascinating book called Made For Each Other: The Biology of the Human-Animal Bond by Meg Olmert. In it, Olmert explains how our interaction with animals affects our very brain chemistry by triggering an uptake in oxytocin, a hormone that acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain and plays a role in social recognition, bonding, trust, anxiety, and maternal behaviours. Our dogs’ tireless enthusiasm, joyful greetings, and playful antics cause us to smile and laugh involuntarily, which also releases oxytocin, creating a sense of calm and increasing social tendencies. It seems the profound emotional bond we share with our dogs as well as the feelings of physical and mental wellbeing they manifest in us go even deeper than many of us may have previously thought; they affect us at a neurological level. Yet Olmert feels that our pets make a still greater contribution to our well-being. She thinks their most important gift is making us more generous, that by caring for them we are less centered on ourselves and more approachable, which is of benefit, not just to ourselves, but to our communities as a whole. I share the belief that as we become more connected to our animals, we also become more connected to others and the world around us. Our relationship with our pets not only fosters greater community-mindedness but also a growing sense of commitment to the myriad species with which we share our world. Perhaps it has something to do with greater awareness and increased empathy, but whichever way she accomplishes it, I thank my dog, Kaya, daily for reminding me to look outside of myself. We have much to thank our furry friends for, so just how do we pay them homage? In this, our fun-in-the-sun summer edition, we give you tons of ideas for dog-approved good times, from the sim-

8 moderndog

summer 2009

ple, mindful steps outlined in “15 minutes to a Better Bond with Your Dog” (page 68) to dog-approved activities like tracking (“The Nose Knows,” page 40) to “20+ Ideas for Summer Fun” (page 114). And if you know of anyone searching for a canine soul mate, check out the adoptable cuties in “Looking for Love” (page 62). Twilight fans (or those of teen heartthrob and tabloid staple Robert Pattison) are, no doubt, familiar with our cover girl Rachelle Lefevre, cast as “Victoria” in the film adaptation of Stephanie Meyer’s first novel, as well as in the soon-to-be-released movie sequel New Moon. In our exclusive interview on page 78, read about how her new rescued puppy, Honey, came into her life and keeps her grounded in hectic Hollywood. Looking for some great suggestions on how to make the most of the season? No worries, we’ve got plenty of canine fun cooked up for you. Challenge Fido with the brain boosting games on page 88, do some guilt-free shopping—check out our awesome budget buys under $20 (page 39)—and add some interest and a nutritional boost to your dog’s dinner with “10 ‘People’ Foods for Better Health” (page 72). And if that’s not enough, get the low-down on dog-friendly Toronto (page 96), meet the Obamas’ newest family member, Bo, learn simple ways to assess personality traits in a puppy or shelter dog, and more! We hope you enjoy this issue… take it along with your furry best friend and go grab some sun—play, laugh, relax, and enjoy every moment of our glorious summer season. Thanks be to dog,

Constance Wilson Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

I’d like to dedicate my editorial column this issue to Callie Louise Wilson-Harfield, a Giant Schnauzer with a giant heart who recently passed away at the age of 14 years. She was truly a great and loving dog who always knew on which side the bread was buttered (in more ways than one!). Your friends and family miss you and will always remember you.

Callie Louise Wilson-Harfield July 5, 1995 – March 26, 2009

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cO n t r iBut Or s summer 2009 Publisher

Coming from a hardcore dog-loving family made lisi gardiner’s employment at Modern Dog kismet. After two years of dabbling in editorial, selling ads, meeting fascinating characters in the pet industry, and using her influence to get just about every dog in her family featured in the magazine, Lisi has become a Modern Dog convert and enthusiast. For her final collaboration with Modern Dog, Lisi was able to combine her love of dogs and travelling in her article “The Phu Quoc Dogs of Vietnam” (page 134). After spending a couple of days on the island of Phu Quoc, she quickly realized she had to write an article about it, give notice, and move there. She is currently just waiting for the last part to transpire.

Connie Wilson Jennifer Nosek

creative Director

Marian Buechert Jennifer Nosek

circulation manager

Jessica Nosek

Design & Production

Carolyn Howse

Design & Production assistant sales & marketing

Maxine Matishak Annica Tong Tia Mihalj

intern marketing & administration editorial assistant subscription services & accounting assistant controller Web consultant

Donations Program liaison okanagan representative

Lillian Wei Mariella Koc-Spadaro Karin Sinkevicius Ariel Castillo Cecilia de Roca Chan Dave Egan Omar Duran Rojas Jessica Nosek Jytte Wilson

Subscription inquiries call (800) 417-6289 Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 In Canada: MODeRN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 8, Issue 2. 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 8, Issue 2. Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 06111-4003. Periodicals postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices. POSTMASTeR: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402. PHONe

(604) 734-3131

OR TOLL fRee fAX

su mmer 2009

no 2

Modern Dog Inc.

editor contributing editor

rachel gordon is a Toronto-based illustrator whose ideas are fresh, lively, and full of colour. Rachel enjoys using subtle concepts in her work, as seen in her illustration for this issue’s story “The Stoned Angel” (page 52). Amidst the soft, muted colours of her images there is always a hint of bright tones popping up here and there. Rachel’s paintings are a combination of acrylics and a collection of unique papers. Last year, Rachel had the privilege of being the Teaching Assistant for a group of Sheridan College students who were studying art in Florence, Italy. This adventure only increased her love of patterns as she encountered countless examples of breath-taking designs in the galleries, museums, and cathedrals of Italy. To see more of Rachel’s work, go to rachelgordon.ca.

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vol 8

editor-in-chief

administration & circulation assistant

For contributing photographer tanya king (“Looking for Love,” page 62), a dream became a reality when she opened The Dog & Hydrant Boutique + Photography in 2006. “I love dogs and always wanted to open a dog boutique.” says Tanya. Tanya takes her community commitment beyond retail, too. In a heartfelt effort to help shelter dogs find new homes, Tanya photographs adoptable dogs from the Vancouver Animal Shelter and posts the photos on her website, thedogandhydrant.com, and in the front window of her shop. As well, every Saturday she hosts a “Doggie Showcase” that features a visit from one of the shelter dogs. Her endeavours have contributed significantly to more than 150 shelter dogs finding their forever homes. (Yay Tanya!) Tanya’s husband, Andrew, and their two beloved American Bulldogs, Casanova and Tyler, complete The Dog & Hydrant family.

•

(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 2009 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

PRINTeD IN CANADA

www.moderndogmagazine.com Publications Mail Agreement Number 40743013 PAP Registration No. 11049 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Publications Assistance Program and the Canada Magazine fund towards our mailing and editorial costs.

Cert no. SW-COC-000952

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Bark Back! Our

r e aD e rs w ri t e

hugs before Drugs I was deeply saddened to see the article on “Pill Popping Pups” (Spring 09). There are so many other natural modalities to aid in the healing of emotional/anxiety-triggered problems. I have found time and time again in my own practice of canine massage, canine acupressure, Linda Tellington-Jones Pill-Popping Pups “T-Touches,” and animal Reiki, that many of I these types of problems can be solved. I am very sad that Joco’s owner could not have explored some of these modalities before putting Joco on drugs. I cannot imagine my dog being groggy all the time; I love to see the sparkle in his eyes and spring in his step. I would hope that people reading the article would try other methods of healing before drugging up their pets. Angelique Chacon, CMT, Manhattan Beach, CA Mood-altering drugs and our dogs By Stanley Coren

Photographs by Tanya King

t was the early 1980s and Nicholas Dodman of the School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University was standing next to a colleague watching a dog that had been brought into the Animal Behavior Clinic. The dog was panting furiously and pacing around the room. It cringed and trembled when it was approached. Dodman looked up and announced that the dog was clearly feeling anxious. His colleague shook his head and muttered something about the dangers of treating dogs as if they had such human-like feelings. “Dogs don’t experience the same mental states and emotions that people do,” he argued. Dodman’s colleague was really restating a belief that many scientists have held since the 1600s. It began with René Descartes, a French philosopher, mathematician, and biologist who claimed that only humans have feelings and conscious mental processes. Animals were thought to be simply the equivalent of biological machines with no psychological processes worth mentioning. Two hundred years later, Charles Darwin, whose theory of evolution changed our view of the biological world, challenged Descartes. He suggested that animals have much the same mental abilities as people, although these may be more limited in scope. Furthermore, he believed

that the emotional experiences of animals are quite similar to those of humans. Dodman was clearly siding with Darwin when he answered his colleague with “Well, how about this? Let’s give the dog an antianxiety drug and see what happens.” What happened made history: the dog’s behaviour improved dramatically. At the biological level of analysis, this is what should have happened. The brain of the dog is very similar to that of humans in many ways. The limbic system, which controls the major emotions, including fear and anger, exists in both species and operates in a similar manner. Furthermore, the basic neural chemistry of dogs and people is the same. Today, most veterinarians have learned to accept the fact that animals have emotions and can suffer from some of the same emotional problems that people do. These include not only anxiety, but also depression, irrational fears and phobias, anger outbursts, obsessive and compulsive behaviours, and a broad range of neurotic and stress-related problems. Animal behavioural pharmacology is a growing field of research and most veterinarians have been trained how to use psychologically active drugs. Drugs for pets are now big business and the Pfizer Drug Company

ing is also false. Find a butcher and buy your meat in bulk; buy parts that no one else buys, such as chicken backs. I never pay more than $2 per pound for meat; organs are even cheaper. My Dachshund eats approximately seven pounds of raw a month; it works out to be less than $10 a month. Perhaps next time you decide to take on such a controversial subject it should be a collaboration from holistic vets, regular vets, and raw feeders. I’m disappointed that a magazine with such influence would publish such a biased article. Alicia Foord, London, ON

Drugs for pets are now big business.

moderndogmagazine.com

[We wholeheartedly agree. –Ed.]

The raw Debate, indeed The first line of “The Raw Debate” (Spring 09) is bang on, people are extremely passionate about what they feed their dogs, and I’m sure you’re going to be receiving quite a few comments about this article because of that. Why did the article not discuss the hazards of feeding commercial kibble? Why was Prey Model Raw (a basic ratio of 80 percent meat, 10 percent bone, and 10 percent organ) not mentioned? When research is put into how to properly create and feed a raw diet, the statement “Feeding bones can cause choking, intestinal blockage or perforations, and chipped or broken teeth” becomes nearly irrelevant. The statement that raw feeding is expensive and time consum-

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[We received many letters on this subject, both from opponents and proponents of a raw diet. Stay tuned for an in-depth article delving into the intricacies of feeding raw that goes beyond basic pros and cons.—Ed.]

a Case of Mistaken identity I was so excited (and a proud Mommy) to see my little guy featured in the Spring 2009 edition as one of the Modern Dog photo contest winners. Thank you for choosing him! However, I was sad to see that his name was written as Letters instead of Chaucer. On another note, I love your magazine—it’s the only one I seem to read cover to cover and save it to read again later! Thank you, Dorothy Westerman PS In that photo he is wearing the lovely necklace he won from CuddlyRuff through a contest in your magazine. [Oops! Chaucer’s photo was destined for “Our Readers Write,” a.k.a. “Letters.” Our sincere apologies for the mix up, Chaucer. –Ed.]

Write to us! Modern Dog welcomes correspondence from all readers. 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 I heart my new Organic Bumper Bed! Comprised of soft organic cotton stuffed with Westpaw’s trademark IntelliLoft stuffing made from plastic bottles, this rest is perfection—really comfortable and cushy, plus I sleep better knowing my washable, zippered, made-in-the-USA bed choice diverted plastic from the landfill.—Miniature Dachshund Esther ($68, westpawdesign.com)

2 Sized for smaller dogs, this cheery, stainless steel awning-striped “hi” ID tag is perfect for me. My stats are engraved on the back and it comes with a clear rubber ring that glows in the dark for nighttime visibility.—Miniature Dachshund Rose ($22, georgesf.com) 3 Hands free anyone? This soft pet carrier allows your small dog to snuggle with you while you’re strolling around town together. The “it” sling comes in a variety of fabric choices and designs. Make the sling as unique as your precious furball—Tia ($64, kokocouture.com)

4 Dogs who love to swim are at risk for ear infections caused by water in the ear canal. Aquabandit is a stretchy, comfortable wrap that holds your dog’s ears tight against her head, keeping water out while she frolics in the wet. —Marian ($22, aquabandit.com) 5 What’s cookin’, good lookin’? You, in this vintage-inspired pretty pink poodle apron.—Maxine ($29, boojiboo.com) 6 I love to eat, so it’s important for an on-the-go dog like me to have a convenient, airtight storage container to pack my food in. The latched compartment in the base keeps my food securely stowed (important cuz I frequently get snack attacks), plus it raises the inset, removable stainless steel bowl, making it easy for an old dog like me to dine in comfort.—Kaya ($19, molor.com/ezstore.html)

7 Wear it proud and shout it loud: “There is only one earth…it’s in OUR hands!” Made from recycled

materials, these matching earth shirts for humans and pets are a symbol of a new era of lending Mother earth a helping hand and making this planet a better place to live.—Lillian ($22 for human/$16 for pet tees, shopbff.com)

8 Have your dog show pride in your favorite team with a jersey. Woof! —Ariel ($29, doggienation.com) 9 Walk the dog! Handmade rolled english bridle leather leashes and collars are all fash without the flash.—Jessica (collar $55/leash $84, houndcuffs.com)

10 I fell in love with these stylish, well-made dog duvets the moment I saw them. fill them with old

clothes, blankets, or bedding you’ve got lying around the house (a fun, easy way to recycle your old things) or cover an existing dog bed with one. It’s way easier to wash the smaller “stuffing” items than trying to fit a soiled bed or pad into your washing machine.—Connie ($20, mollymutt.com)

11 everyone loves balloons; I remember when I used to play with my balloon dog in the park. This comfortable jacket with its balloon-dog print brings my childhood to my mind. —Omar ($46, zazzle.com) 12 keep your pup warm and cozy on cool summer nights with a beautiful, handcrafted quilt from Boodie

kiss. Not only will it wrap fido in style, but it also lends its rustic charm to your decor as a whimsical couch throw.—Annica ($55 and up, boodiekiss.com)

13 for a stealth excursion or to tote your tired Bff, the Malibu Carrier, part of the luxe Lilly collection by Cece kent, is perfect to pamper your pooch en vogue. —Karin ($300, cecekent.com) 14 It’s festival season! I’m ready for the summer tunes, but don’t want to get dirty. I’ll make sure to pack these stylish Chihuahua wellies to keep that mud off so that I can rock on while still looking good. —Mariella ($78, davrain.com)

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BL 14 moderndog

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Shall iPhone My Dog? Apps for Yaps

You’ve heard an apple a day keeps the doctor away? Well, it looks like an apple today will keep the dog trainer away, too. A recent rash of new applications, including one to help you train your dog while on the go, is keeping dog-loving iPhone users busy—and entertained. iTeach Dogs will help you master six basic commands of come, drop it, sit, down, leave it, and stay. We’re not talking applied science here, but, for those with a new puppy or needing a brush up on the basics, having the resources accessible at all times will help get you started. Other dog-themed iPhone applications include one that uses GPS to locate off-leash dog parks in

Keeping dogloving iPhone users busy.

your area (the Off Leash Dog Park Locator), an app help of some fastidious licking canines (Screen Cleaner), a diary to keep track of your dog’s health, day-to-day information, and photos (Dog Diary), and yet another that helps all those involved in doggie’s daily life stay on the same page with easy shared reporting on pees and poos, walks, feeding, and other activities (DogiDuty). Seems everyone and their dog wants an iPhone. apple.com/iphone/appstore —Jessica Nosek

After months of fierce debate and much speculation in the blogosphere and beyond as to what dog the Obamas would choose, the first family welcomes their eagerly anticipated puppy, promised to the girls, Malia and Sasha, during the presidential campaign. The lucky dog is Bo, a six-month-old male Portuguese Water Dog, a gift from Senator edward kennedy, who has Porties himself and is know for his love of the breed. Malia and Sasha chose the moniker, inspired by their cousin’s cat of the same name. Their parents are said to call the dog “Diddley.” following his election-night puppy promise, Obama had said the family hoped to adopt a hypoallergenic rescue dog because of Malia’s allergies. While the Portuguese Water Dog certainly meets the low-shedding coat requirement, many are disappointed Bo didn’t come from a shelter or breed-specific rescue. However, the president and first lady reportedly plan to donate to the Washington Humane Society to support their original intentions. And that’s a message we can get behind. Welcome to the White House, Bo!

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phoTo r euTer s/ ji M young

Meet the Newest Obama: Bo the Portuguese Water Dog

U.S. President Barack Obama walks with his family and Bo, a six-month-old male Portuguese Water Dog, at the White House in Washington, April 14, 2009.

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On The Fifth Day: Help Build an Ark Most of us are at least somewhat familiar with the parable of the determined Biblical figure Noah and his ark. After all, as the story goes, were it not for he and his big boat, the post-flood world would’ve been devoid of animals. Well, in Rutherford County, Tennessee, in response to the estimated 20,000 unwanted animals captured and the 14,000 euthanized annually, a new Noah is emerging. No bearded man marching zebras and

Nunu, a Maltese/Shih Tzu, of Vancouver, BC Photo by Sandy “Loves milkbone and noodles! She talks with her bright eyes and can understand up to 80 words in two languages.”

Squirrel of Fairfax, CA Photo by Barbara yonkow “Squirrel is very independent. I am not positive but I think this photo was taken when he was in New york City working as a model/escort.”

Are you constantly hounded by the puparazzi? Is your pooch a poser for the camera? If so, go to moderndogmagazine.com/photocontest and upload the cutest, funniest, or simply the best snapshot of your furry friend for a chance for your dog’s photo to appear in an upcoming issue of Modern Dog. Wage a publicity campaign and garner votes for your pup or, if you’re blessed with the discerning eye to choose which Fido really is the fairest of them all, stroll through the online entries and vote for your favourites. Then, keep on the lookout to see if your picks make the pack. On a weekly basis, the dog with the most votes will be awarded Dog of the Week, have his or her photo featured on the homepage, and will be considered for inclusion in Modern Dog magazine. Get snapping!

giraffes two-by-two, this Noah is the endlessly optimistic Jen Flatt Hilsher, founder of On The Fifth Day and its Animal Rescue Keystone (A.R.K.). Jen’s undertaking is set to be one of the largest no-kill animal sanctuaries in America. The fundraising is well underway and the future respite for abused domestic, farm, and wild animals will consist of a five-acre park, aqua therapy for seniors, multiple dog colonies, a cat house, full-scale vet services, and, of course, The Sit ‘n Stay vegan café. While Jen and her team have been working tirelessly to raise the initial $100,000 required, she readily admits: “No goal of this magnitude is completed alone.” And so now it’s our turn to pick up a figurative hammer and help build her ark. After all, we’d hate to think how the story would end otherwise. To make a tax-deductible donation, visit onthefifthday.org. – Mary-Jo Dionne

18 moderndog

Pay homage to your best friend with a tree Our dog’s appreciation of nature is unthinking—they simply revel in it. So what better way to commemorate milestones in the life of your dog than by planting a tree in her honour? The Arbor Day foundation is offering Trees for Pets, a perfect gift for nature lovers, animal lovers and, well, anyone who lives on planet Earth. Celebrate an adoption or graduation from puppy training classes with a Tree for Celebration or plant a tree for a dog whose memory you want to live on. Not only will you have a constant reminder of the bond you shared with your friend in a gift that will grow year by year, you’ll also be replenishing our forests’ trees, creating new homes for wildlife, and helping us all breathe a little easier. Now that’s something to bark about. arborday.org/treesforpets—Jessica Nosek

su mmer 2009

THE SCOOP WATCH

An American

Opera, a heartrending but ultimately uplifting documentary on the pet evacuation mission following Hurricane Katrina, hits the streets this summer for a year-long film tour across the United States. Following the disaster, director Tom McPhee headed out to help. The resultant acclaimed feature-length documentary explores the aftermath of the tragedy and the displacement of New Orlean’s house pets. Both wrenching and inspirational, this film explores the human/animal bond in light of a catastrophic situation and highlights the extraordinary individuals involved in the rescue mission, as well as those that stood in the way. For dates and cities or to watch the trailer, go to anamericanopera.com.

R E A D One Nation Under Dog:

Adventures in the New World of Prozacpopping Puppies, Dog-park Politics, and

Organic Pet Food by Michael Schaffer explores

Canine Castaway Mystery When Sophie Tucker, an Australian Cattle Dog, set sail with her owners on a cruise

the cultural phenomenon that has seen dogs

through tropical waters last November,

move out of the backyard and into a place of

likely her only worry was what to wear to

unprecedented privilege, and in the process

dinner with the captain. But somewhere

reveals just how much our devotion to our

off the coast of Queensland, Australia,

pets says about us and society at large. Well

the weather turned

written, thoroughly researched, and filled with

rough and Sophie

funny anecdotes and astounding facts you’ll

fell overboard.

want to read aloud to whoever happens to be

Her frantic family

sitting next to you.

Her frantic family searched for her in vain.

searched for her in vain and finally gave her up for lost, be-

D O Are snarky online gossip

lieving her drowned or taken by sharks. Fast forward four months and a feral

sites your guilty pleasure? Cross the

dog is trapped by rangers on St. Bee’s

guilty out of the equation and still get

Island, having drawn attention to herself

your dose of Hollywood—and cute dogs!—with peoplepets.com. From news bites to a fashion file, you can do more than just catch up on famous canines and their celeb parents. Join the PeoplePets online community to chat with other pet parents, watch cute clips, or peruse the best in amateur pet-ography.

by chowing down on baby goats. Sophie’s owners hear of the hunt and, against all hope, meet the rangers’ boat carrying the captive. Upon seeing her family, the wary, snarling dog in the cage morphs back into a wiggling tail-wagger and the reunion is complete. How she swam for miles through

Move over, Ty Pennington Every week the Doggie Wonder Team on Underdog to Wonderdog saves a shelter stray and gives the dog a makeover from head to tail. The pup is trained, primped, and placed in her new forever home, Cinderella-style. The team even includes a canine carpenter to design the dog her very own dream house. Tune in Saturdays at 8pm e/p on Animal Planet TV.

turbulent and shark-infested seas and learned to look after herself on the mostly uninhabited island, no one will ever know, but the grin on Sophie’s face and the twinkle in her eye hint that it’s a salty tale well worth hearing—if only we understood Dog. —Marian Buechert

moderndogmagazine.com

Do l l a ra rTis T. Co M

THE SCOOP

5 Canine-Approved Money Saving Tips

Get down with DIY and whip up a new dog toy instead of buying one. Simply remove the squeaker from an old, torn-up toy, stuff it in a sports sock that has lost its mate in the laundry, fill with cotton batting or old, holey socks, then stitch shut. And, voila, it’s playtime.

Mr. and Mrs. Canine Cruise 2008

Prolong the time between visits to the groomer by giving your dog a waterless bath at home. Sprinkling on a dry shampoo absorb oils and keep your dog fresh smelling, without the hassle of the hose. We like Bobbi’s Gorgeous Dry Dog & Cat, a spray on/wipe off, natural, no-rinse shampoo (bobbipanter.com).

Or, better yet... Groom your own dog. you may not be able to duplicate the fancy cuts done by trained professionals but if you have a calm dog and a steady hand you can perform basic grooming at home. for complete at-home grooming how-to, pick up a copy of Guide To Home Pet Grooming by Chris C. Pinney, D.V.M. (Barron’s, 2005).

Make your own tasty dog treats. fast, simple, healthy, and cheap recipe options abound. Take dehydrated liver treats—there’s just one ingredient: liver. See recipe below.

Cancel your gym membership and hit the dog park, the pavement, the agility club....the options are endless and your dog will be thrilled.

Adventure on the Canine Seas New Yorkers set sail September 12 on the 4th annual Canine Cruise. The highly anticipated three-hour sightseeing cruise for pet owners and their small pooches benefits a different canine charity each year and features adoptable dogs for those “on the cruise” for a new family member. Enjoy a doggie fashion show, have a canine caricature made, or get professional advice from the onboard groomers, trainers, and veterinarians; plus, it’s all hands on deck for the crowning of Mr. and Mrs. Canine Cruise. But most importantly, enjoy a breezy afternoon in New York’s inner harbour in benefit of a good cause while mingling with your mutt and other owners just as crazy for their canine as you are. caninecruise.com –Karin Sinkevicius

Recipe

Oven-Dried Liver Treats Cut liver into strips about 1/2“ wide and 1/4” thick and place on a wire tray in an oven set at the lowest possible temperature setting. Let cook/dry out for five or six hours or until the liver appears dry. Remove from the oven and leave out for a day to dry further, then place in a container. Will keep for several weeks; refrigeration not necessary.

Modern Dog Poll Results 93% believe the formal standards for purebred dogs should be changed to focus on health rather than appearance.

Modern Dog Poll Do you think dogs experience emotions similar to those humans feel, such as grief, guilt, anxiety, and love? Go to moderndogmagazine.com to vote.

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su mmer 2009

THE SCOOP Calling all witty writers or writers at heart: create a caption for this cartoon and submit your entry at moderndogmagazine.com/cartooncaption.

DOG TRICK: BACK TO BASICS

Four Easy Steps to Teach Your Dog to Fetch

The top four most comic captions will be published in the next issue and will each win a one-year subscription to Modern Dog!

By Andrea Arden

Teaching your dog to fetch is more than just fun and games. Aside from being a wonderful outlet for mental and physical energy, it is also a terrific way to strengthen a cooperative canine-human bond. Most dogs are CarToon © 2009 b y Da viD ja Co bs o n

inclined to chase objects due to their instinctual prey drive; however, many require schooling to bring that object back to you and release it. you can teach your dog to fetch reliably and happily using the following simple steps in play training sessions of no more than five minutes in duration.

1. Right before your dog’s meal time, have her on leash and hold an appropriate retrieve object (such as a light plastic or wooden dumbbell) in your hand. As you present the object to your dog, she is likely to investi-

And the winner from the Spring issue:

gate it with her nose or mouth. Mark that moment with a clicker or a marker word such as “yes” and then give her a bit of her meal. The marker sound followed by a treat gives your dog specific feedback and reinforcement that touching the object is what gets her the food.

those times when she begins to open her mouth and

The Langnickel’s were relieved to see Ted no longer had a monkey on his back. Submitted by Melanie Anne Allen

take hold of the object. This may start with a small step in the right direction, so be sure to watch her carefully so you can mark and reward for each attempt that gets closer to the final goal of taking the object in her mouth.

3. When she is reliably placing her mouth around the object, begin to hold it closer to the ground as you present it. Brief, short sessions with lots of rewards for tiny steps in the right direction are the fastest route to success. you are ready to move onto step four when you are able to place the object on the ground and have her take hold of it.

Runner-up Captions: Yep, still single... Submitted by Jordin Dunsmuir

The dropped jaws and awkward silence led Martin to the realization that Rover’s separation anxiety was utterly out of control. Submitted by karen Six

Rosco is pleased at how well his People Sitting business is going. Submitted by Linda Miranda

22 moderndog

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4. Now you’re ready to toss the object a foot or two away. When she picks it up, calmly encourage her to bring it back and mark and reward when she does. The mark and reward will act as a strong reinforcement for going to the object, picking it up, and giving it back to you so the game of fetch can continue! for most dogs who have mastered the pick up and return, you can now play the game with numerous objects—even your car keys!

pup profiles

“I’m a modern dog! dog!”

Mango

Age: 18 months Breed: Australian Shepherd Hometown: Mead, WA Nicknames: Mango-pup; Puppers; Mango-mang Likes: Snuggles; chewing on everything she sees; belly rub time Dislikes: Baths; not getting attention; being told to sit Favourite pastimes: Being loved on; eating Favourite foods: Anything edible!

Gucci

Age: 2 Breed: Chihuahua Nickname: Gooch; Noodle; Baby Love; Noodler Likes: Being the center of attention; playing with her friends, Chewy, Princess, and Pebbles Dislikes: Temperatures under 24 degrees Favourite pastime: Sunbathing and napping in your lap Favourite foods: Dad’s roasted chicken; carrots and chicken jerky treats

Is your dog modern?

Leahla

Age: 6 Breed: Miniature Schnauzer Hometown: kelowna, BC Nicknames: My girl; Nose; Princess Likes: food; cuddles with Mom; naptime; long walks Dislikes: Visiting wildlife in her yard; car rides; being alone; bathtime Favourite pastimes: Tug-of-War; deer watching Favourite foods: Whatever Mom and Dad are eating

Libby

Age: 1 Breed: Cavalier king Charles Spaniel Hometown: Ottawa, ON Nicknames: Libbyloo; Paris; Dibs Likes: Squeaky toys; snuggling; tummy rubs Dislikes: Car rides; her retractable leash; the snow plow Favourite pastime: long walks; playing fetch and tug of war; meeting friends at puppy class; hanging with her grandparents Favourite foods: Carrots; milk; liver treats; anything Mommy’s eating

Moose

Age: 13 months Breed: Golden Retriever/ Great Pyrenees Nickname: Moosey girl; Mooser; Baby girl; Lil chicken Likes: The fish tank; Grandma’s homemade slippers; when mummy grooms her; swimming after birds; eating apples off the tree; puddles!; playing tug-a-war with daddy! Dislikes: Surfboards; pooping in public; lemon juice; guitars Favourite pastimes: Dog park; hiking; lazing in the sunshine; rolling in the snow; play dates with Bella Favourite foods: Pigs’ ears; beef knuckles; cat food; all-natural carrot cookies

Pixel

Age: 3 months Breed: Manchester Terrier Nicknames: Pix flix; Pixie Likes: Trips to the dog park; cuddling with anyone Dislikes: Baths; her crate Favourite pastimes: Playing with her toys and napping

Want to see your pup profiled in the pages of Modern Dog? email us at doggieprofile@moderndogmagazine.com with a high-resolution photo and the above doggie data for a shot at stardom! Assignment of rights applies; see full details at moderndogmagazine.com/photosubmission.

CALENDAR

summer waggin’ More events online at moderndogmagazine.com/events

JuNe

AuGusT

July

Wag the flag, it’s Canada

It’s all about free dog-love in Toronto, ON, at Woofstock, the largest outdoor festival for dogs in North America. woofstock.ca

Bring Fido to work for Take Your Dog to Work Day and celebrate your dog companion while helping make your office a little more canine-friendly. Your dog’s new job title? Canine ambassador. takeyourdog.com

See the best of the best compete at the

Day! pho T o by lin D s e y Do n o va n

Celebrate Yorkie Day to help Save a Yorkie Rescue organization raise awareness. Or, better yet, adopt a homeless Yorkie today! saveayorkierescue.org

13 + 14

By Mariella Koc-Spadaro

For a different kind of dog event, celebrate Independence Day this year with the 50,000 other spectators gathered at Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY to watch internationally renowned (or infamous, depending on how one looks at things)

2009 Agility Association of Canada National Championships in Ottawa, ON. July 30th through

August 2nd. aacnationals.ca

Because Your Dog is Worth It Too! Over 5,000 dogs and their human

companions will gather in Cranbury, NJ, for this fun, dog-focused L’Oreal event in support of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. yourdogisworthittoo.com

phoTo by Deb hiTChins

Nathan’s Famous Hotdog Eating Contest. nathansfamous.com

High flying fun.You’ll flip for the largest disc-dog competition in the world, happening in Marysville, WA, at Poochapalooza, a fun-filled canine country fair. poochapalooza.org

14-18

26-28

Take the plunge. Check out the Ontario Dock Dogs at this year’s International Food Festival in London, ON. Watch as daring dogs compete in events like Big Air Wave and Extreme Vertical. ontariodockdogs.com

Help support the Humane Society and have a little fun while you’re at it, during the 17th annual Pets in the Park in Edmonton, AB. From sheep herding to flyball, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. edmontonhumanesociety.com

Love is golden…retriever? Then head to the Golden Retriever Club of Canada National Specialty, in Chilliwack, BC. Test your canine’s ability through conformation, agility, obedience, and much more to see if they can advance to the top. grcbc.org

22+23

Fashion week goes to the dogs. The most cutting-edge canine couture and avant garde grooming can be found only at Pet Fashion Week New York, an industry-only trade show and symposium. petfashionweek.com

28-30 Get ready for some island fun at this year’s “Tropical Pooch Paradise”-themed Fido’s Festival USA in Woodstown, NJ. Don’t forget your lei. fidosfestivalusa.com

moderndogmagazine.com

moderndog photo contest wÄąnners!

smile!

Tashi

Rolo

Jake Chica

Monkey Face

Kelso

Wondergirl Koda

Louie

Minnie & Jack

Sweet Pea

Scratch

Rocky

Tucker

Maximus

Winnie Hurley

Beau & Adrian The Johnson Dogs

Oliver

Oakley Koal

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 fall 09 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, dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name and breed, address and contact info, including telephone number. Please send 4 x 6 print photographs, email your entry to photo contest@moderndogmagazine.com, or enter online at moderndogmagazine.com. Assignment of rights applies; see full details at moderndogmagazine.com/ photosubmission.

moderndogmagazine.com

BRE E D P RO F IL E

The Portuguese Water Dog Presidential Pooch Elect by Marian buechert photographs by Deborah samuel

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su mmer 2009

DOG & CAT

foundational essentials

boCa 3 ©200 9/D eborah saMuel

If the new presidential pooch rates his own Secret Service man for protective purposes, it would only be in keeping with the breed’s historic status as a highly valued companion. The Portuguese Water Dog Club of America website states: “the ‘water dog’ was held to be nearly sacred” and “severe penalties” were meted out to those who killed one. Used as working dogs from ancient times by fisherman along the coast of Portugal, PWDs spent their days in and around the water, retrieving gear dropped into the sea, hauling nets, carrying items between ship and shore, and even herding fish into nets. Being such excellent swimmers and divers, the dogs were also quite capable of water rescues; one of the earliest written descriptions of the breed, dating from 1297, is a monk’s account of a sailor pulled from the sea by a PWD. As fishing modernized in the early twentieth century, the water dogs became less of a necessity and their numbers declined dramatically to the point that only a handful remained.

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moderndogmagazine.com

Advertisement: BiologicVET - “Supplement the love: Fats & Vites” Publication: Modern Dog Magazine, Summer 2009 Size: 1/2 vert (3.25" x 9.625")

ove over, Miss Beazley, and pack your bags, Barney. With a new US president in Washington, the Bush Scotties have stepped down from their post as First Dogs and a different bark is now echoing through the White House. Speculation about the arrival date, name, and breed of the promised pup has been intense, with several blogs devoted solely to this topic and lobbyists campaigning vigorously for their chosen breeds, from Labradoodle to Obamutt, but, as pundits predicted following hints from Michelle Obama, the president has now established diplomatic ties with a representative from Portugal: the Cao de Agua, as it is called in its native land, aka the Portuguese Water Dog (PWD). In an interview this spring, Ms. Obama waxed enthusiastic about the PWD’s moderate size of 17 to 23 inches as well as its spirited temperament, and was quoted as saying “The folks that we know who own them have raved about them.” Of course, when you’re the First Family, “the folks that you know” include Senator Ted Kennedy, whose canine running mates are PWDs Sunny and Splash, and who gave the Obamas the new puppy, Bo.

Portuguese Water Dog AKC Ranking: #62 in popularity Size: Medium—17-23 inches Grooming: High Activity level: High Heritage: fisherman’s helper US Rescue: Portuguese Water Dog Club of America pwdca.org/breed/rescue/ Canadian Rescue: Portuguese Water Dog Club of Canada under “Rescue” on pwdcc.org

30 moderndog

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boCa 1 ©200 9 /Deborah saMuel

Profile:

Fortunately, through the efforts of a few dedicated fanciers, the breed survived and is no longer considered a rare breed in North America. Breed enthusiasts, however, are rightly concerned that a PWD in the First Family may create a frenzy for these dogs, encouraging uncontrolled breeding to supply a demand for high-priced celebrity pups. Such “overproduction” of any breed can only exacerbate existing genetic health problems, which, in the Portie can include hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. New owners who simply must have the dog du jour may also find the breed’s high energy level, daily grooming needs, and nimble brain more of a challenge than they can handle. Nonetheless, presidential preference for the PWD will almost certainly see a significant jump in the breed’s popularity ranking, currently 62nd in American Kennel Club registration standings. One major factor in the Obamas’ choice of pet was daughter Malia’s allergy; like many other families living with allergies, the Obamas are hoping they have found a dog that won’t trigger sniffles. While it is true that the PWD doesn’t have an undercoat, which is often the source of problems, and doesn’t shed as much as some breeds, many people are still allergic to PWDs and an allergy sufferer should spend some time with adult Porties to determine his or her particular sensitivity before getting one. The water dog’s coat comes in two textures, wavy and curly, and may be black or brown, with or without white markings. Solid white and parti-coloured dogs—white with black or brown markings—are also acceptable. On pets and working dogs, the coat is usually clipped short, while show dogs display longer coats in one of two specific styles: the lion clip or the retriever clip. The breed’s high intelligence and people-oriented personality are big pluses for owners who can spend significant amounts of time with their dogs, but can make a PWD a handful if he is left alone or unworked too long. The authors of The Complete Portuguese Water Dog (Howell; 1986) write: “He comes often to his humans for their love because he wants to be near them. He needs to be noticed. He’s a very demanding and affectionate dog. You simply can’t put him in a corner and not expect him to protest. He will.” The same authors, however, also praise the PWD’s adapability, which could be a valuable trait in a First Dog. Now that the Obamas have their new pup, it is certain that he will live the life of a star, with the immaculately groomed South Lawn to squat on and paparazzi documenting every puppy puddle. With his oceanic origins, Bo will surely make excellent use of the White House’s private swimming pool, and go down in the annals of presidential pets as the “Washington Water Dog.” n

5 Questions for Martha Stewart

Q: Did you have pets growing up?

Martha with francesca and Sharkey.

Martha, Martha, Martha

By Rose Froesek

ur favourite doyenne of domesticity, the queen of craft, Martha Stewart, is not only known for her impeccable taste but also for her love of French Bulldogs, in particular, her two Frenchies, Francesca and Sharkey. To dog lovers who watch The Martha Stewart Show, the pair are recognizable stars in their own right, frequently appearing on her show to taste test dog biscuits and give their paws-up approval for dogthemed projects. Now, with the introduction of Martha Stewart’s new pet-keeping website, marthastewart.com/pets, we dog people finally have one-stop access to Martha’s wonderful pet projects, as well as a place to check out the musings of Francesca and Sharkey, written in their very own blog, The Daily Wag. Step-by-step instructions for over 30 projects are already posted on the site and a new craft will be introduced monthly. There are also pet-related videos from The Martha Stewart Show, hundreds of articles pulled from Martha Stewart Living, pet quizzes, advice, and photo contests for pets wearing holiday-related costumes. With Martha’s love for pets apparent in this venture, we asked her a few questions about her own menagerie.

32 moderndog

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phoTography by anDers Krusberg / The MarT ha sTeWarT shoW

A: Yes, but only a couple. We had a dog named Shiner for a few months but my mother could not cope with six children and a dog. We also had a pet crow. I think that’s why I have so many pets now!

Q: How many pets do you have now? A: I share my home with two dogs, five cats, and 25 red canaries. That’s not to overlook my three donkeys, five horses, and more than 100 chickens.

Q: How long have you had your two dogs? Were they adopted or rescued? A: Francesca and Sharkey are four years old. They came from JustUs Frenchies in Maryland. Some of my cats have been purchased, some adopted. Four of my horses have been purchased and one is adopted.

Q: Do you subscribe to a particular training method? A: I treat my dogs like little children—I talk to them, reprimand them gently, and spoil them. They want to please, which makes training very easy.

Q: What activities do you like to do with your dogs? A: I often go for long walks with Francesca and Sharkey. They are very active dogs who enjoy outdoor activities as much as I do. They also like to run after the horses and the four-wheeler. They are constantly with me and they especially like to visit town, go window shopping, watch movies, and drive in the car.

phoTography by j ohnny Miller

Make Martha’s Pet ID Tags Use Martha’s downloadable template and easy-to-find materials to create a cute customized ID tag for your dog. Instructions

* Shrinky Dinks printable plastic sheets (available at craft stores or online at goestores.com) * Regular or decorative-edge scissors * Hole punch

1. Download Martha’s Pet ID tag template to your computer’s desktop. marthastewart.com/images/ content/web/pdfs/2009Q1/ pet_tags_blanks.pdf Open the file and type your dog’s name and your phone number.

phoTography by johnny M iller

Tools and Materials

2. Print tags on a Shrinky Dinks printable plastic sheet. Cut out with regular or decorative-edge scissors and punch a hole where indicated. Bake according to package instructions; let cool. Seal both sides with matte clear-coat spray before attaching to collar.

Highly Targeted Relief for your Itchy Dog Our unique "nozzler" spray gets this soothing formula through the fur directly to itchy and irritated skin. No muss, no fuss, no wet dog or wasted product. Every drop of this all-natural formula by-passes even the thickest coat and attacks the irritation at the source. Itchin’ for Relief contains a blend of Neem, Oat Extract, Litchi and Aloe to soothe irritated skin while Boswellia Serrata & Calendula help to reduce inflammation. We’ve also included Grapefruit Seed Extract to help reduce both bacterial and fungal infections.

To place an order call toll free 1-866-HAPPY-20 e-mail sales@happytailsspa.com www.happytailsspa.com

moderndogmagazine.com

Pablo Picasso and his wife, Jacqueline, at home

pho To hu l To n a rChiv e /s Ta ff

Picasso’s Dogs

Muse and mascot: the artist’s life-long love affair with his canine companions By Stanley Coren

ablo Picasso was born in Málaga, Spain, and was the son of a Basque drawing teacher named Blasco Ruiz and an Italian mother, Maria Picasso. According to Spanish naming traditions, his name was Pablo Picasso y Ruiz, and so he signed his earliest pictures. Before he died at the age of 91, he would sign over 45,000 works. One professor of fine arts told me that Picasso had five passions: “his art, his ego, his image, his women, and his dogs, in that order.” In fact, Picasso’s life was full of dogs. He had many, of many different breeds, including terriers, Poodles, a Boxer, Dachshunds, a German Shepherd, Afghan Hounds, and numerous “random bred” dogs. Many of these were “borrowed” or “stolen” from friends and associates in the same way that many of his women were. The dogs were as much a part of his life as his female companions, and they went everywhere with him. He also gave dogs to his friends as gifts, in part to ensure that he would never be in their company without a dog. When his various relationships broke up, Picasso would often leave all of his goods behind him and go off to live in a new place with a new woman. Usually, he would only arrange to have a few things returned to him, including some of his recent paintings, some of his brushes and paint, and his dog or dogs. The rest was all left to friends or to the woman whom he was leaving. One of the most important of Picasso’s “stolen” dogs came from David Douglas Duncan, a photographer for Life magazine. Picasso liked Duncan and, for nine months, the

photographer was drawn into the world of La Californie, Picasso’s villa near Cannes. He was given carte blanche to photograph whatever and whomever he liked. When Duncan came to visit he brought along one of his own dogs, a Dachshund named Lump. The dog took a liking to Picasso, and the feeling was mutual. “He jumped ship,” remembers Duncan. “He was a very engaging dog, and as soon as he arrived at Picasso’s house he decided this was heaven and this was where he was going to stay.” Picasso played with the dog, gave him bits from his breakfast, and sat Lump on his lap to caress him while talking and being photographed by Duncan. When Duncan was about to leave, Picasso held Lump and said to Duncan something like, “You will leave him, of course?” In his book on Picasso and Lump, Duncan suggests that, although he was fond of the dog, Lump was getting along badly with a larger dog that he owned. In addition, his nomadic lifestyle made travelling with the small dog difficult. Actually, the likelihood is that Duncan, like most other people who interacted with Picasso, simply found it difficult to refuse any request that the artist made, whether for money, services, or the companionship of women or canines. Picasso’s dogs often worked their way into his art. One of his first pieces was a paper cutout of a boyhood terrier. Lump was drawn into several of Picasso’s interpretations of Velásquez’s painting Las Meninas. The artist replaced the massive hound in the foreground of the original with abstract renderings of Lump. Freaky, a mixed-breed, is the subject of many drawings as well, while Kabul, his

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Picasso’s Las Meninas; Doña Isabel de Velasco, the dwarf and the dog (after detail of Velazquez’ 1656 portrait of family of Philip IV of Spain), 1957

“There was Lump, my Dachshund. I used to put him in my paintings when they needed something to make them lighter and more amusing.” Afghan Hound, appears in several paintings with one of his wives, Jacqueline. I got to meet Picasso once. The occasion was a reception held in honor of the unveiling of a large piece of public sculpture that was commissioned by a New York University. The reception was one of those large formal affairs. I no longer remember why I was invited; however, I was there with a few other academics, mostly from fine arts departments. Picasso was already well into his eighties. I remember being surprised by how small and wiry he looked. What I remember most were his eyes—they were enormous in relation to his head and, at first glance, they seemed almost black in color. He was surrounded by a number of dignitaries who were controlling the flow of people who wanted to meet him. One of my colleagues leaned over to me and said “We can

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go up and try to say hello, but he really only talks to important people or people who can do something for him.” “Well, I’d like to try,” I said, “I wanted to ask him a question.” I had recently read that, despite the fact that he had lived in France for around 50 years, Picasso remained very proud of his Spanish heritage and since I spoke that language reasonably well I hoped that might gain me a moment of his time. Once I was in front of him, I quickly asked him in Spanish “Excuse me. I know that this occasion has to do with your art, but might I ask you a quick question about your dogs?” On hearing his native tongue being spoken, he looked directly at me with the barest hint of a smile. “Certainly,” he said. “I have seen photographs of you with so many different breeds of dogs. Is there any one breed, or any one dog, that was your favourite?” Now he did smile. “I have had so many,” he said and as he started speaking his dark eyes drifted upward, “Some were gifts, some I found. Breeds... I do not usually get the same breed of dog again. I want each to be an individual and I do not want to live with the ghosts of the other dogs. Of course there was Lump, my Dachshund. I used to put him in my paintings when they needed something to make them lighter and more amusing. I suppose that I am fickle in my affections, but after a dog has left my life I try to quickly fill its place with another. Right now I have an Afghan Hound named Kabul. He is elegant, with graceful proportions, and I love the way he moves. I put a representation of his head on a statue that I created for Daley Plaza in Chicago and I do think of him sometimes while I am in my studio.” He looked directly at me, and as he continued speaking, his right hand was making lines and curves in the air, as if he were drawing something on an invisible canvas in front of us. “Often, if he comes into my mind when I am working, it alters what I do. The nose on the face I am drawing gets longer and sharper. The hair of the woman I am sketching gets longer and fluffy, resting against her cheeks like his ears rest against his head. Yes, if I have a favourite, for now at least, it is my Afghan Hound, Kabul.” He smiled at me in a way that told me that my audience was over. Since that meeting, I have looked at Picasso’s art in a different way. Now, I always look at the noses and hair and wonder if the picture I am looking at has a bit of Afghan Hound in it. n

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moderndogmagazine.com

dogsport

The Nose Knows On the trail of tracking dogs By Patricia Komar Photographed by Angie Wojciechowska

Nothing is ever really lost. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always somewhereâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;so trust your dog to find it.

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abu, my Cairn Terrier, was missing. I clipped on Bruno’s leash and commanded, “Search! Find Tabu!” Bruno sniffed. His nose went to the ground. He zigzagged left, then right. He headed down the ravine, pulling me behind. Blackberry thorns tore at my clothes. My boots sank into decaying cedar. Bears, coyotes, and cougars inhabit the wilds of our area and my little Tabu was in danger. We traversed a stream rumbling with spring runoff. I trusted Bruno, my obsessive Border Collie-Lab cross, as he began an ascent. It was hot and muggy and the hike up was tough, an angle that had me close to the ground, nearly crawling. Bruno was tenacious. A tug: he had found her! Bruno lurched toward Tabu, nearly knocking her over with a nose nudge. Bruno did his job. Hot on Tabu’s scent trail, Bruno had been tracking, relying primarily on his sense of smell, possibly a thousand times more sensitive than that of humans. Dogs possess more than 220 million olfactory receptors, humans only 5 million. When a scent can’t be recogDogs possess more nized right away, a dog will sniff a series of than 220 million rapid short inhalations and exhalations. This can be startling to see for the first time. The scent olfactory receptors, isn’t washed out as the sniffing actually forces humans only air into a pocket in the dog’s nose where the 5 million. unrecognizable molecules can accumulate and be deciphered. This allows the dog to distinguish scents and follow trails. Tracking dogs are used for search and rescue in urban disaster (911) and avalanche operations, as well as for police work. Dogs and handlers involved in these operations are highly dedicated and intensely trained, and must be ready to tackle life-or-death situations 24/7 in all kinds of weather and dangerous conditions. On the lighter side, the nose is put to the test in the non-competitive sport of tracking, where dogs decipher scents along a trail in order to locate “indicate” articles and find humans. Through the Canadian and the American Kennel Clubs, dogs can earn titles such as Tracking Dog (TD) or Urban Tracking Dog (UTD). To achieve a TD, a dog must follow a stranger’s track approximately 450 meters long with two to four turns, “aged” for at least 30 minutes, and with a glove at the end. In Urban Tracking, dogs are tested on varying terrain: a grassy baseball park, non-vegetated areas, parking lots, schools, and office sites. To learn more about tracking, I traveled out to Canine Harmony Dog Training Academy in Surrey, British Columbia, just a trail away from the boundary that divides the United States and Canada. I arrive to find a gathering of trackers readying their dogs with body harnesses and long leashes. Blackberry brambles, fruit trees, and weathered barns border the training fields. The smell of burning cherry wood fills the air. Smoke billows out of a rusty barrel that provides heat to onlookers on this crisp March morning. This is where tracking comes alive, where human scent trails are made and tracking dogs lead their handlers in search of humans, squeaky toys, and favourite treats.

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“Every weekend the club will be out in the fields learning and practicing,” says Chanone Sanders, master dog trainer. “To get started, you need the desire to learn tracking and a dog you’d like to track with.” Sanders holds a seminar once a month to help people learn the theory and “book work” behind tracking. Today, she leads new and experienced trackers to the fields insisting everyone stay to the right of the orange cones, out of the working field. “We want a clean slate so the dogs can focus on the tracks.” She asks for a volunteer, “Who wants to go get soggy in the grass?” Monika Mallow, courageous in her sturdy boots, steps forward. Sanders tells her how to lay a track: “Stand for just a second, line up two objects with something in the distance. Walk that line, stop, turn 90 degrees, walk, and hide in the grass. Sit quietly.” Mallow lays a track for Arlo, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and hides. She has the dog’s favourite ball stuffed inside a glove. Arlo leads owner Samantha Andress as he “air scents”: testing the odours that float above the ground. “Find it!” Samantha commands. Arlo’s nose goes down. He circles and begins sweeping big arcs, “coursing” across the scent track. “There’s a strong breeze taking the scent south,” Sanders reports. Arlo’s on the “fringe” but keeps on tracking. He nears the weeds. With a sudden jump, he’s found her. Mallow cheers and tosses his ball. Next up is long-lashes Maggie, a Labrador-Golden Retriever mix. She gets a good sniff of her favourite treats. Once again, Mallow braves the soggy field taking Maggie’s treats with her. Sanders turns Maggie around and instructs owner, Marion Hewko, “We don’t want Maggie to see, we want her to use her nose. They know how to smell. We

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“It’s an activity that bonds us with our dogs in a way that no other event can” teach them the only way to do it is by scent—then the nose kicks in.” As Hewko walks Maggie to the line, Sanders continues: “Okay, bring Maggie to start then out—slow, slow, slow. Let her go ahead of you. Find it!” Maggie takes off, showing a “deep nose”— a nose close to the ground and buried in the grass. She stops. Sanders calls, “She stops, you stop. Let her pull you.” Maggie backtracks, air scenting, high nose, picks up the scent. Off she goes again. She discovers Mallow lying in the grass. Maggie jumps around, tail wagging, celebrating. Lilly the Australian Shepherd is next. It’s her first time. Owners Shawn Gerenski and Sharon Warren watch as Sanders puts a harness on Lilly. “This way she won’t hurt herself. Collars pull.” she explains. The trainer tells Gerenski, who is going to lay the track, that he should talk to Lilly before he goes out. Gerenski walks a straight line into the field. Sanders covers Lilly’s eyes. Gerenski hides. Search time. Warren commands Lilly, not with “Find it,” but instead calling: “Where’s Daddy? Find Daddy!” Lilly searches. Air scenting. Nose goes to the ground. Big sniff. Aha! Daddy’s scent. She’s off and galloping an absolutely straight line to Gerenski, who cheers and tosses Lilly’s favourite red squeaky toy. Tracking is a fun way for dogs and handlers to exercise, challenge themselves, and enjoy social time with other teams. Cindy O’Neil says it has helped her big mixedbreed dog, Brooke, to overcome her fear. “Brooke’s a rescue dog,” says O’Neil. “When we brought her home, she was very afraid. I signed her up for tracking to build confidence. It made her more outgoing.” Brooke is now one of the “diehard trackers” who just can’t get enough of the sport. “It’s an activity that bonds us with our dogs in a way that no other event can,” says Sanders. “It’s a quiet walk in a field on a misty morning with a purpose and a goal. It’s the joy of finding the goal at the end of the track and the desire to do it again. It’s a balance, a trust and a harmony that we forge together with our dogs.” n

moderndogmagazine.com

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Summertime strolls. Stop your lunging pup from pulling with the Canny Collar, a soft yet effective head harness. cannyco.us

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Personality Tests and the Modern Dog By Rebecca Ledger Illustration by Jess Golden

sk any dog owner about his or her dog’s personality, and you will hear expressions much like those used to describe people. Take my nine-year-old Springer Spaniel, Pippa. She is gentle, active, smart, and occasionally mischievous, quite like many children her age! I have yet to meet a dog owner who is unable to describe his or her own dog’s character in similar ways. It therefore comes as a surprise to pet owners that, for years, many psychologists contested that dogs had no personality, deeming it to be a characteristic unique to humans. At last, new research on dog behaviour is proving the psychologists wrong and dog owners right—we now have proof that dogs do We now have have personalities that are strikingly similar to our own and that can proof that dogs do be assessed in very similar ways. have personalities Recent studies have revealed the type of personality traits that that are strikingly dogs possess, and have even led to the development of dog personsimilar to our own ality tests, which not only profile a dog’s temperament, but also preand that can be dict her future behaviour in particular situations, as well. assessed in very For someone who is adopting a dog from a shelter or for those similar ways. who are working hard to place homeless pets, this information can be very helpful. For example, many humane organizations now use validated tests to evaluate shelter dogs prior to adoption. Validated tests have been tried in real-life situations and the accuracy of the results measured scientifically, so that test developers and users can be sure that the test is legitimate. Even amongst the turmoil and stress dogs experience whilst being kennelled, these validated tests are able to predict the type of behavioural problems dogs will have following adoption into a new home. This information is invaluable to shelter workers, for once problems such as aggression, anxiety disorders, hyperactivity, and fearfulness are pre-empted, the necessary rehabilitation can be targeted at dogs most at risk. An assessor can test a dog by exposing it to a variety of situations; for example, the assessor may stare at the dog from outside of her kennel, walk her on a leash, play with

moderndogmagazine.com

il l u s tra tio n je s s go l de n

Tips for selecting a shelter dog Any aggression displayed by dogs in the shelter is a sure sign of things to come, so be extremely cautious. As for the rest, here are some tips, based on the validated DTA-4 assessment, on what some simple interactions can tell you about your future companion. Remember, no test is ever 100 percent accurate, so be sure to also discuss the dog with the member of shelter staff who knows the dog best. 1. Stare at the dog from outside the kennel. Does the dog: a) retreat away from you b) ignore you c) approach in a friendly or submissive way

2. Watch as a member of shelter staff enters the dog’s kennel. Does the dog: a) try to get away

b) ignore visitors c) approach in a friendly or submissive way

3. Take the dog for a walk. Does the dog: a) lag behind b) pull ahead c) walk without pulling

4. Play tug of war with the dog. Does the dog: a) try to get away b) try desperately to win c) plays gently and lets go readily

5. Introduce the dog to other dogs. Does the dog: a) try to get away

b) ignore them c) approach in a friendly or submissive way

6. Groom the dog with a brush. Does the dog: a) try to get away

b) mouth you or the brush c) enjoy being groomed

Reviewing the results: Mostly A’s These dogs have a fearful personality. You may need the advice of a behaviour therapist to help the dog overcome his or her issues.

Mostly B’s These dogs may try to dominate family members. Speak to a behaviour therapist about how to avoid this becoming a problem.

Mostly C’s These dogs are less likely to have issues following adoption.

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her, and introduce her to other dogs. Each test situation is carefully controlled and crafted to focus on a specific aspect of dog personality. To measure excitability, the assessor may present the dog with cookies, show her a leash, give her a toy, and introduce her to people. Or, to assess fearfulness, the dog may be exposed to unfamiliar people or loud and sudden events, such as the clatter of a bowl on the ground or a rapidly opened umbrella.

Is it possible to meet a dog and intuitively know her personality? Evaluating a dog’s personality in a kennel is difficult because the kennel environment itself is so intimidating for most dogs. It requires a good eye and sufficient experience to see past the dog’s fear and despair and hone in on subtle cues that reveal her true underlying nature. Using a validated test and breaking behaviour down into small, measurable components can reveal the inner workings of even the most stoic dog. Is it possible to meet a dog and intuitively know her personality? Of course, anyone with experience of dogs is able to form an impression of what a dog is like, but a key characteristic of validated personality tests is that they can often predict future performance more accurately than intuition alone. These insights are invaluable when it comes to successful dog adoptions. Whilst working with the UK’s RSPCA some years ago, I found that matching assessed dogs with assessed owners led to a reduction in the number of dogs that were returned to shelters because of incompatibility issues. Sage, a six-year-old Australian Cattle Dog, was brought into a shelter because her owners moved to an apartment that would not allow dogs. Sage appeared to be a calm and gentle dog on arrival at the shelter, and the shelter assessors were not surprised when her personality assessment backed this up. This was all good news for Sage, because this meant she could be re-homed quickly without the need for pre-adoption training. In fact, within a week of her assessment, she was adopted

by Dawn and Ti, a couple looking for a dog, and she couldn’t be happier now. “We fell in love with her straight away,” says Dawn, who had to have their beloved last dog, Jonnie, put to sleep only weeks before. “Sage settled in straight away.” Because Sage’s shelter assessment predicted that she would be at high risk of experiencing separation anxiety, Dawn and Ti were able to put a behaviour therapy plan in place to avoid this becoming a problem, so eliminating any chance that Sage would need to be returned to the shelter. The message here is clear: if you want to adopt a pet from a shelter, listen carefully to what the shelter staff have to say about each dog’s personality and perhaps do some simple personality testing of your own as you consider the available dogs. Then choose one whose behaviour is right for you. Resist being hooked by looks alone, and you can look forward to a match made in heaven. n

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50 moderndog

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eat

D.I.Y.

NUTRITION

Make your own healthy summer treats il l u s tra tio n je s s go l de n

Frozen Banana Treats Frozen treats are great for keeping dogs cool in the summer, and they can be used to soothe teething pain in puppies. Recipe Preparation Time: 5 minutes Makes: about 16 treats 4 cups (32 fl oz/900 ml) plain, whole milk yogourt 2 tbsp peanut butter 3 ripe bananas, peeled and mashed Blend all the ingredients to a purée in a food processor. Pour into 4-oz/115-g plastic cups. Freeze until firm. Pop the treat out of the cup and watch your dog enjoy!

VET’S VIEW

Bananas are a great source of potassium. Combined with yogourt, they make a healthy treat. The mixture can also be frozen inside stuffable chew toys (seal the tip with a dab of peanut butter first).

Nutritional information Per cube Calories

Protein

Carbohydrates

8.5 g

Dietary fiber

2.9 g

Fat

3.1 g

From the book The Healthy Dog

Fruity Pops Dogs just love the crunch of ice cubes, and here the rewards are made healthy and delicious. Perfect for a hot summer’s day. Recipe Preparation Time: 5 minutes Makes: 24 ice cubes 4 1 qt/1.13 litres fruit juice (not grape juice) 1 ripe banana, mashed 1 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) plain, whole milk yogurt Blend the fruit juice with the mashed banana and mix in the yogurt. Pour into ice cube trays and put in the freezer. When frozen, pop out of tray and serve one at a time.

Cookbook: 50 Nutritious and Delicious Recipes Your Dog Will Love. Published by TFH Publications, Inc. 2008 © Ivy

Note: the Pops will keep for up to 1 month in the freezer.

VET’S VIEW A fun and healthy treat, good for hot days and for teething puppies. It can also be frozen inside stuffable chew toys (seal the tip with a dab of peanut butter first).

Nutritional information Per cube Calories

Protein

0.2 g

Carbohydrates

7.2 g

Dietary fiber

0.1 g

Fat

0.2 g

Press Ltd. Used by permission.

moderndogmagazine.com

The Stoned Angel How one small dog started leaving her mark. By Patricia Penny

Illustration by Rachel Gordon

y husband is clutching our ten-year- old Schnoodle protectively. Shasta wriggles to get down, oblivious to the heated discussion about her future, while Bob looks at me as though I am the grim reaper. “What about me? Would you have me put down if I needed surgery?” “It depends. Are you peeing on the carpet?” I dump a half-cup of prescription dog food into a bowl and Shasta leaps from his arms to dance in front of me as I place it on the floor. “Not yet, but give me time.” “She’s a dog,” I remind him. She looks up, crunching noisily on her food. “And we agreed that we wouldn’t go through this again. It’s only been ten months since the last surgery.” “But look at her,” he says with that “isn’t she sweet?” tone. We watch in silence as the dog inhales her food and shamelessly burps. Her brown eyes flit back and forth between us as she tries to figure out why we are hovering over her. “She’s still relatively young,” he points out. “And healthy.” “Hardly.” She is on her second round of bladder stones in less than a year. They are nasty little things with sharp points that cause blood in the urine and frequent urination, much of it on our hall carpet. “She’s like a used car,” I sigh, turning to load the dishwasher. “At what point do you say that the repairs are a bad

investment and just go and buy a newer model?” “You’re comparing our dog to a car?” he asks, appalled at my apparent lack of compassion.

But she was only supposed to stay a few weeks! I can’t help it. I was raised in a household where pets were loved, but never at the expense of the family. If the cat needed spaying and my sister needed shoes, the shoes came first (hence the two litters of kittens). If the dog had bad breath, we stopped putting our noses quite so close to her mouth. Dental work was hard enough to afford for three kids, never mind the stray hound that adopted us. Now here we are with Shasta, the little white dog we agreed to watch for just a few weeks, the one who has been with us for five years. As much as I have never favoured small dogs, I have to admit that she is feisty, energetic, and fun loving. She bounds through the woods after deer as though she is a hound, and walks with us for miles, just like Maggie used to. Maggie was a real dog, a Lab/Border Collie we had for twelve years until her hips finally gave out. Maggie was my dog. She would never have peed on the carpet.

So much for the trip to Antigua My mind has done a quick calculation. Exam and x-rays - $93. Surgery - $1000. Urinalysis every three

moderndogmagazine.com

By Mary-Jo Dionne

the ideal combination of high design and cuddly comfort

months - $35 a sample. Special dog food - $70 a bag. Never mind her regular checkups, dog-sitting costs, grooming, and carpet replacement. “We can’t afford to go through this every year,” I sigh. “Small dogs live a long time. She’ll end up costing us over $10,000 soon. Do you have $10,000?” I know he doesn’t. He has just bought a new plasma television. “I just bought a new plasma television.” “Exactly!” I crow. “But that’s the point. If we can afford to buy a new TV, and build a new deck, and go out for dinner Friday night, how can we say we can’t afford to have the dog operated on?” Shasta wags her stubby tail. “Ready for your walk?” Bob asks her. She barks and runs full tilt to the back door. Even though she is in pain, she’s too excited about a walk to remember. “I’ll walk her,” I offer, closing the dishwasher. “You sure?” “Yeah.” I walk down the hall to the back door and pull on my shoes as Shasta barks at me demandingly. “Stop barking,” I tell her sternly. She sits. I look at her tiny face and see her quivering in eager anticipation of her third walk of the day. Sighing, I call down the hall. “Go ahead and book the surgery.” “Okay,” he shouts back. He was probably already on the phone. Later that night as we are lying in bed, Shasta’s small body curled in the crook of my knees, I rub her curly fur. “I could never have done it,” I admit. “I know,” Bob answers in the dark. Shasta sighs and presses closer to me. n

FRee StuFF

Eco Chic Sleep

“furniture scaled for the small dog”

scamperandsnooze.com 905.582.8043 54 moderndog

su mmer 2009

Five fortunate Fidos will soon be snoozing on West Paw Design’s Eco Nap, a soft and stylish mat made of earth-friendly IntelliLoft recycled plastic fibers. For contest details, see page 133. For more product info, go to westpawdesign.com

on’t Tickle the

ragon

For those who are looking to clean their dog’s teeth, use our biscuits named Dragon’s Teeth, or Dragonette’s for the little mouth, or mouths with few teeth. The shape of the biscuit helps to scrape off the tarter, if fed soon after eating or at bedtime. The April 2004 issue of Life Extension Magazine reported in a Japanese study about perilla oil, which is one of the ingredients in Dragon’s Teeth biscuits. The study concluded that it was a possible agent in the early stages of colon cancer. It is also used with heart problems and breast cancer. We also use south Antarctic krill, which looks like a small shrimp. They live in clean Antarctic waters. Astazanthin, another ingredient, helps to reverse early cataracts and early macular degeneration, according to recent studies. Look up information on the web. We use oatmeal, a non-allergic grain. Historical claims that the oldest long living man on record lived to be 152 years old in England during the reign of King Charles I. The man claimed that he ate oatmeal everyday of his life. As a guest of the king, he was given meat to eat. He was dead within two weeks. Interesting! We included peppermint to settle the stomach and clear up bad bacteria in the stomach. Peppermint is also for IBS and diarrhea. We added Green Tea for its anti-oxidant properties. Oriental cultures credit Green Tea long life. Fish is brain food. Our chitosin is from the fish family. It is used in many diets since it has the ability to absorb excess fat and is safe. Many reducing diets include chitosin. Spinach is our source of chlorophyl. Every cell in the body contains cholorophyl. (That is why our Solid Gold Sea Meal is our shining star!) Chlorophyl transmits electricity in our body from cell to cell. Without chlorophyll, the body couldn’t communicate its actions. If you saw our previous ad. “In Search of Cinnamon,” about our Cinn-Bone Biscuits in 2½ an one pound containers, you read that cinnamon contains sulfur, the seventh most prevalent ingredient in the dog and human’s body. Insects cannot reproduce in the presence cinnamon. It is a natural flea, fly and insect repellent. But do not put cinnamon on the dog’s coat, it will dry the coat out. It must be mixed with other ingredients and taken internally. The flea season is coming soon. The Chinese have an interesting saying – Don’t tickle the Dragon. Not sure what it means! Dragons Teeth and Dragonetts are available in 2½ pounds or one pound jars. Call to place an order at (619) 258-7356, M-F, 11 am-5pm (PST). FLASH: Solid Gold uses no peanut butter. See Salmonella poisoning making 500 people ill. One dog food company uses peanut hulls in its canned food - Peanut hulls frequently contain a fungus which causes ear infections. FLASH: Life Exxtension is back - $30.00 Solid Gold is the only dog food company that is a member of the Organic Trade Association, the American Nutraceutical Association, the Medicinal Food Association, Nutraceutical Foods Association and the Life Extension Association.

For a catalog or store near you call or email us at: (619) 258-7356 or (619) 258-1914 (M-F 10-5 PST) or E-mail us at dane@solidgoldhealth.com or www.solidgoldhealth.com Solid Gold Health Products for Pets, the Holistic Animal Nutrition Center 1331 N. Cuyamaca El Cajon, CA 92020

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Always Have Utah Me and Jack and my new Best Friends

By Mary-Jo Dionne

56 moderndog

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photo by sarah ause

(above) The author heading into DogTown Headquarters, the oft-shot location of the hit series. (facing page) Forget Stephen King’s version of a pet cemetery. The lives of 4,000 animals are honoured at the peaceful Angel’s Rest.

efore my bags are unpacked, I have fallen in love with Jack. I’m not surprised, really. I knew as I was preparing for my trip to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, location of the National Geographic Channel’s DogTown, that I would want to scoop some new pals to add to my ever-expanding ark. Somewhat aloof, Jack only warms up to me after the second sweet potato snack. Admittedly larger than most animals I have approached in the “can-Ibe-your-friend” crouch, he is nonetheless dainty as he takes the rumpled chew from my hand. The fact that people who eat with boorish abandon are called “pigs” strikes me as ironic when I look at Jack. For, though one of the sanctuary’s 21 pot-bellied residents, Jack’s polite manners exude all things gentleman. I quickly suspect similar epiphanies might end up being a theme over the next few days. After all, this place breathes transformative magic. A place where the misrepresented are represented, the mistreated are treated, the unloved are loved. And, as far as humans go, the misinformed are informed. An easy four-hour drive from Las Vegas, the town of Kanab, Utah, is the antidote to the incessant ding-dingding of the slot machine cacophony. From the moment we pull into the sanctuary’s very welcoming Welcome Centre, an effervescent luminance radiates. The sun is beginning to set in a sky that occupies more space than I thought a sky could. Chiseled cliffs resembling scattered pieces of Paul Bunyan-sized toffees tower over the red terrain. Sets of graceful deer hop by in a well-choreographed ballet. And off in the distance, the chimes at Angel’s Rest memorial grove blow sweetly in the breeze—a reminder of the 4,000 animals who rest there in peace. All in, my boyfriend, Chad, and I are guest-starring in what I imagine an installation art show would look like were it hosted by God.

photo by gary Kalp aKof f

A place where the misrepresented are represented, the mistreated are treated, the unloved are loved.

moderndogmagazine.com

photos by sarah ause

(above) Just one of the sanctuary’s salad-eating pot-bellied residents.

(top, left) The surrounding 33,000 acres make Best Friends the largest no-kill animal rescue organization in America. (above) Rescued from the war-torn streets of Beirut, Polo joined us for a pajama-party sleepover.

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As idyllic as the setting is, we aren’t here to chill. We’re here to get our hands dirty. Our on-site cabin is cozy and homey, and we soon meet our first neighbour. A Katrina survivor, Pinky is staying next door on a doggie-sleepover, the pajama-party program in place to help socialize pets. While we will later host a lovely boy named Polo, a Shepherd mix from the war-torn streets of Beirut, the chew marks on our TV’s remote imply at least one such outing has already occurred here. Unless Chad got to it when I wasn’t looking. (In fairness, he hadn’t eaten in hours.) But, as idyllic as the setting is, we aren’t here to chill. We’re here to get our hands dirty. And by that, of course, I mean: play with puppies. And so the first order of business is puppy socialization class, where we teach the babies words like “sit,” “stay,” and “remote controls aren’t food.” While it’s admittedly a fun job, our facilitator Don explains the undertaking is about more than just playtime. Before the puppy politeness program’s inception, Best Friends endured a 35 percent return rate on adopted puppies whose owners decided not to keep them. Almost three years later, that rate has dropped to zero. In any given year, Best Friends attracts approximately 25,000 visitors who help in a myriad of ways. With 800 cats, 500 dogs, and more than a handful of pigs, horses, and bunnies, there is no shortage of litters to change, laundry to fold, and bowls to fill. Cleanliness is so paramount, I see less piles of poo here than in some suburban backyards. Chad and I, on dog-walking duty, stroll trails with Namacita. Then Cooper. Then Tinkerbell. Then Knight. And then the heartwarming, lampshade-wearing Captain Muley, whose recent medical procedure forces him into the duncecap. We pass countless volunteers and wave, noting the colour of the collar sported by their four-legged pal. Like streetlights, a green collar says: “Go for it! This dog is people-friendly and may lick your face off.” A yellow collar says: “Slow down. This dog has special needs.” And a red collar says: “Stop. This dog is for staff only.” It occurs to me how people might benefit from this system, as I reflect on the pre-latté moods of some of my red-collar co-workers.

Today the 33,000 acres is the largest no-kill organization in America. Over a vegetarian lunch buffet, a gaggle of employees heap mounds of tofu cubes onto their plates, and my inside voice lets out an involuntary: “My people! I’ve found my people!” Served in the sanctuary’s floor-to-ceiling windowed café, perched overlooking Escalante National Park’s escarpments, the daily buffet deserves its own spectacular Zagat rating. Not only for quality nosh, but for quality communications. Co-founder Cyrus Mejia passes a cordless mike from table to table in true conch-form. We hear about a Missouri puppy mill bust, potential changes to California animal welfare legislation, and plans for Best Friends’ 25-year celebrations. (The goal of this milestone? To double membership.) In a one-hour lunch, I understand how they achieve what they do. The pride is palpable. I sit on my hands, an outsider, so as not to grab the mike and yell: “I like you. I really like you!” in my own version of a reverseSally Fields Oscar speech. With silver anniversary celebrations underway, related events and swag abound, arguably the coolest of which is the specially produced CD collection Giving Animals a Voice Through Music featuring artists like John Oates, Cyndi Lauper, and Neko Case. After all, there’s a lot to sing about. What started a quartercentury ago when a group of animal lovers simply wanted to “do more,” as cofounder Francis Battista explains, is now Mecca for all things rescue-related. “We wanted to create something other than the tin-roof, chain-link fence, depressing local pound,” he tells me. Once the dusty set of Hollywood classics like The Lone Ranger and The Apple Dumpling Gang, today the 33,000-acre site is the largest no-kill organization in America. When I ask if he could envision this kind of success 25 years ago, he laughs. “At the time, we just put one foot in front of the other.” Of course things were a lot different then. The no-kill movement didn’t have

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The DogTown series, like the organization as a whole, is clearly making an impact.

photos by sarah ause

much in the way of volume behind its voice. In the United States alone, more than 17,000,000 animals were euthanized annually. Today, that number is 5,000,000. And while this is progress to be sure, my Macbook calculator confirms that even this improved statistic is a horrific 571 animals killed every hour. In other words, there is still work to be done. As Julie Castle, Best Friends’ director of community services and programs, admits: “Sure, it’s great. But we’re not making progress fast enough.” In addition to a team that fields over 60,000 animal-welfare emails, calls, and letters annually, Best Friends oversees four on-going campaigns that span “bully breed” awareness, feline population control, anti-puppy-mill action, and a critical petsaren’t-disposable message, which all contribute to the organization’s “No more homeless pets” mandate. But perhaps at no time has Best Friends been more in the spotlight than in 2007, when they were awarded custody of 22 of former NFL player Michael Vick’s dogs—seized from his Bad Newz Kennels dogfighting ring. The DogTown episode “Saving Michael Vick’s Dogs,” which was nominated for a 2009 Genesis Award, documents the sheer volume of commitment an effort of this nature requires. Eager to meet the Vicktory Dogs, I choke back tears when I am introduced to the lovely Georgia, the energetic Ray, and the shy Oscar. But nothing prepares me for the way I feel when I meet Lucas. Once Vick’s “prize fighter,” every jagged crevice on his ravaged face is evidence of the torture he once endured, a sick reminder of a $1 billion industry.

(top) I’m not sure who was better behaved on our walk, Chad or Polo. (above) Wild turkeys also call the sanctuary home. (right) Former Michael Vick fighting dog, the now pampered and very lovely Georgia.

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(Adina MacRae 902.441.9775) SIZE: 6.75” x 2.875” (NO BLEED) COLOUR: CMYK

When I eventually sit with Dr. Mike Dix—DogTown’s own McDreamy—and his wife, Elissa Jones, herself instrumental in coordinating episode storylines, I’m curious if all they’ve witnessed has restored or diminished their faith in humanity. Dr. Mike’s answer is matter-of-fact: “I see more good eggs than bad.” Elissa recalls the letter sent from a fan in the United Kingdom addressed only to Dr Mike Dix c/o 80 Miles North of the Grand Canyon. “And he actually got it! See? That’s a positive,” she laughs. Now in its third season and airing in 165 countries, the series, like the organization as a whole, is clearly making an impact. As Chad and I prepare to leave, I experience a sadness I cannot quite name. And while it feels an awful lot like homesickness, I know it falls more in the camp of having to leave my long-lost tribe. A tribe that includes a chewed remote, all-you-can-eat tofu, and my very elegant latest crush. As for you, Jack, well, we’ll always have Utah. n

FRee StuFF

Peace Pooch Spread the word, make peace not war! Six lucky readers will win this Paws for Peace tote bag from It’s a Dog’s Life. See contest details on page 133. For more product info, go to teddythedog.com.

To become a member of Best Friends—and to watch the new-member counter tick—visit: celebrate.bestfriends.org.

It starts with a

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Discover the

at clickerleash.com and learn how easy it is to Train Humane.

At the end of every leash is a friend. At the beginning a click.

moderndogmagazine.com

Looking for Love

photographed by tanya king

here are loads of dogs languishing in shelters throughout North America and beyond. Some have been abandoned, others picked up as strays or rescued from an abusive situation. The dogs included here are just a small selection of the countless sweet souls out there in search of some love and a place to call home. In particular, big black dogs, seniors, Pit Bulls and Pit Bull crosses and large, strong dogs like Rottweilers and Dobermans have a hard time finding a good family, in part because of character misperceptions. The cuties on the following pages are available for adoption through the Vancouver Animal Shelter (VAS), a pro-adoption facility providing refuge for lost and abandoned animals. For more information on the adoptees, go to petfinder.com and search Vancouver Animal Control Shelter & Services. Or check out your local shelter; there is no shortage of wonderful adoption candidates looking for love.

Glory (facing page)

Breed: Labrador Retriever/Husky mix Gender: Female/Spayed Age: approx. 8 years old Arrived at VAS: January 31, 2009 Glory is a big ol’ sweetheart, a genuinely friendly and approachable dog who enjoys playing with tennis balls. Although she has a bit of “senior stiffness” in her bones, Glory would enjoy a low to moderate exercise home with people that like to go for slow strolls like she does.

Lily

Breed: German Shepherd Dog Gender: Female/Spayed Age: 3 - 5 years old Arrived at VAS: February 16, 2009 Lily is a purebred German Shepherd with a “classic” Shepherd temperament—outgoing, loyal, intelligent, a little needy on occasion, and talkative. Lily seems to have had some basic training already, and she’s pretty easy to handle, so we think she’ll fit well into a lot of different types of homes.

moderndogmagazine.com

Emily and Charlotte

Breed: Pit Bull/Labrador Retriever mixx Gender: Females Age: Emily (approx. 8), Charlotte (approx. 6) Arrived at VAS: September 25, 2008 Will you open your heart and home to two lovely dogs who so deserve someone to call their own? Sweet and easy to manage, these two little ladies, Emily and Charlotte, are a dog owner’s dream. They are really nice, easy-to-handle dogs—housebroken, well socialized with all people and dogs, trustworthy off-leash, low maintenance, and quiet in the house. We think the only reason “Em and Char” haven’t found a forever home yet is because there are two of them; they were found together and are very bonded to each other. However, even as a pair they are less work than one dog!

Kyla, a Golden Retriever/Irish Setter-cross, wears a fader jacket in orchid and lavender with Pacific Tech fleece lining, IDawg (idawgclothing.com); and reversible Love All Over Scarf in red/ gray, ShaNaBe (shanabe.com).

moderndogmagazine.com

Shrimp

Breed: Bull Mastiff/Rhodesian Ridgeback mix Gender: Male/Neutered Age: 1-1/2 years old Arrived at VAS: February 24, 2009 This big, strapping super-handsome guy knows a few basic commands and came to us already neutered, so he was someone’s pet in the past. He is “goofy” with a side order of “needy for attention,” so we suspect he’s just dying to become someone’s 80-pound lapdog. Shrimp loves toys and is playful and fun, so people used to “big boys” would really enjoy having him in their family.

Nikki Breed: Rottweiler Gender: Male Age: 4 years old Status: Adopted

Though Nikki has found his forever home, his affectionate personality, intelligence, and impressive obedience show that, though some potential adopters can be scared off by the size and strength of this breed, the Rottweiler is a lovely, smart, devoted dog that would make a great companion for an active, experienced owner looking for a loyal friend.

moderndogmagazine.com

body &soul 15 Minutes to a Better Bond with Your Dog

* Got 2 Minutes?

Heart and Soul

Pet With Purpose Instead of zoning out watching SNL and absent-

5 Ways to Make

mindedly patting your pup, focus on your dog while you pet him. Like people, your dog can tell when he has your attention. Feel free to spill about your day, even. Your BFF—best furry friend—will appreciate the extra effort and it will have a cathartic effect for both of you.

a Difference, Now

Donate stacks of your old towels to your local humane society. They’ll use them to line crates or for clean up.

* Got 3 Minutes?

Hide and Sniff Hide your dog’s favourite treat somewhere fairly easy to sniff out, then guide her along with the appropriate level of hints and praise: good girl, you’re very close! The positive vibes and subsequent reward will put the pep back in her paws.

Walk for a canine cause. Dog walks in benefit of charitable causes abound this summer, from Dogs Walk Against Cancer in New York (dogswalk. com) to the Paws for a Cause walks happening throughout Canada. pawsforacause.ca and spca.bc.ca/walk

Get your scoop on. Next time you’re at the dog park and see an extra pile, pick that one up, too. Cleaning up after our well-behaved dogs is the best way to ensure the future of our off-leash parks.

Got 10 Minutes?

dog by giving her a relaxing massage. Start with slow strokes from head to tail, then target specific areas by scratching behind the ears, cheeks, under the chin, bridge of the nose, and between the eyes. Gently rub in a circular motion with three fingers, going down the neck and around the shoulders; then keep the motion going from the buttocks down the thighs. Give gentle squeezes down each leg. Finish by walking your thumb and forefinger down each side of the spine to the base of the tail and come full circle with several slow full-body strokes. By giving a regular, thorough massage, you’ll be able to familiarize yourself with your dog’s normal lumps and bumps and will notice any changes that may warrant a check up. You’ll also be able to tell if there are sore or tender spots that need attention. Remember to keep it light and gentle, though; leave the deep-tissue work to the professionals! –Karin Sinkevicius 68 moderndog

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i llustration jess golden

Mutt-ssage Connect with your

Biodegradable bags are great but when packed into an anaerobic landfill environment even these can stick around for ages. Instead, consider composting dog waste with a NatureMill composter, which, in addition to breaking down your kitchen waste, works at temperatures high enough to render any nasties in the traditionally uncompostable (poo, meat scraps) no-problem. naturemill.com

Choose a rescue dog! If you’re thinking about adding a new four-legged member to your family, see if there’s a homeless dog out there that might fit the bill. With an estimated 5,000,000 animals euthanized in the United States alone each year, there’s no shortage of furry applicants wishing to make yours their forever home. From puppies to seniors, purebreds to mutts, there’s quite literally a dog for everyone.

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“This adorable product embraces your dog with soothing, moist heat, which assists dogs with arthritis and comforts those that need that extra warmth.”

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(800) 233-0201 or (818) 884-8045 moderndogmagazine.com

body &soul coli (E. coli) and prevent them from colonizing in the GI tract. In addition, L. Acidophilus and E. Faecium produce lactic acid. Lactic acid, in turn, stimulates the development of L. Acidophilus and E. Faecium and increases acidity in the large intestine, which is unfavourable for some pathogenic bacteria and good for increased enzyme activity. Probiotics are believed to be useful in improving digestion and are reputed to help improve immune function. Adding probiotics to your dog’s diet may be most useful if your dog: • • • • •

Probiotics

The Buzz on Bugs By Elizabeth Pask and Laura Scott

he world is full of bacteria; many kinds are harmful and can cause illness, but there are also beneficial bacteria. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract uses bacteria to digest food and to make certain vitamins. Most of these helpful bacteria live in the large intestine (colon). Stress, illness, medication, or change in diet can upset the balance of bacteria in the large intestine, which can lead to minor problems such as gas, or more major problems such as diarrhea. Having the right balance of bacteria helps your dog to make better use of food and can help prevent some GI illnesses. Probiotic is the general term applied to a group of live bacteria that are normally found in the gastrointestinal tract of healthy dogs and are thought to have a beneficial effect on GI health. The two main beneficial bacteria for dogs are Lactobacillus acidophilus and Enterococcus faecium (previously known as Streptococcus faecium). These beneficial bacteria can out-compete some of the bad bacteria such as Escherichia

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has had antibiotic treatment has changed to a new food has a food allergy has inflammatory bowel disease is a senior or a puppy.

Probiotic bacteria are host specific. Just as dogs have a variety of breeds within the species, L. Acidophilus and E. Faecium have a variety of different strains. This means that the L. Acidophilus strain that is beneficial to humans may not be beneficial to dogs and vice versa. One of the most common sources of probiotics is live culture yogurt, but not all yogurt contains live bacterial strains and these probiotics are designed for humans and may not be fully beneficial to dogs. When looking to purchase a probiotic you want to make sure that you are purchasing a dog probiotic. Probiotics live and function in the large intestine. For a probiotic to be effective, it needs to survive the very acidic environment of the stomach and small intestine so it can reach and colonize the large intestine. One of the ways to ensure enough probiotic reaches the large intestine is to start with a very high concentration of live probiotic bacteria. As the high quantity of bacteria passes through the GI tract, some will die but the majority will survive. In order to ensure that the probiotic is effective, the dog needs to consume millions or billions of viable bacteria. The number of

Beneficial bacteria can out-compete some of the bad bacteria.

Having the right balance of bacteria helps your dog to make better use of food and can help prevent some GI illnesses. live bacteria is measured as the number of colony-forming units (CFU) per gram of probiotic. When looking to purchase a probiotic, look for a product that has millions or billions of CFU per gram. You may see this reported in scientific notation. For example, one million probiotic bacteria may be reported as 1 x 106 CFU and 1 billion may be reported as 1 x 109 CFU. Canine probiotics are not drugs and, as a result, they are not currently regulated in Canada. Unfortunately, this means that there is no assurance as to the accuracy of the manufacturer’s label. A study done in 2003 tested 19 commercial pet foods claiming to contain probiotics and found that none of the products tested contained all the strains claimed on the label. Some labels will claim the presence of a bacterial fermentation product (i.e., Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product). These fermentation products are not probiotics because they do not contain live bacterial cells. Instead, they are a source of enzyme activity that may not survive the acidic environment of the stomach and may not, therefore, be beneficial. When choosing a product that claims probiotic presence, consider the following criteria: • The list of ingredients should identify the bacterial species, such as

Lactobacillus acidophilus and a good product will also indicate the strain. • The label should guarantee the number of CFU in millions or billions per gram. • It should be a product that is designed specifically for dogs. • The product should have a customer service number so you can contact the manufacturer if you have any questions. • The probiotic should have a bestbefore date, as storage time and conditions (i.e., excessive heat or cold) can reduce the viability of some bacterial stains. For a variety of reasons, scientific research has had some difficulty proving the proposed benefits of feeding probiotics to dogs, however, they are unlikely to cause harm to your dog. There are some conditions in which you should consult your veterinarian before feeding probiotics. If your dog is immune compromised or undergoing GI surgery, or is suffering a severe bout of gastroenteritis, you should not feed probiotics until you have discussed it with your veterinarian. While there is an increasing awareness in society about bacteria and viruses, most of the media focus has been on pathogenic bacteria. It is important to remember that there are many beneficial bacteria. Not all bugs are bad. n

FRee StuFF

Rope-N-Go Five miniature mutts will win a lightweight, metal-free Rope-N-Go harness in size small, perfect for those constantly on the go or those who suffer from sensitive skin. Get all the contest details on page 133. For more product info, go to ropengo.com.

Doggie-licious Delights 18 lucky readers will win a bottle of Wild Alaska Salmon Oil for dogs as well as a pack of tasty treats in seven different flavours from Yummy Chummies by Arctic Paws. See page 133 for contest details. For more product info, go to yummychummies.com.

moderndogmagazine.com

body &soul 10 “People”

Foods for Better Health By Elizabeth Pask and Laura Scott As a responsible and informed dog lover, you probably know that too much “people food” can make your dog ill or overweight, but there are some human foods that can be safely added to your dog’s meals in moderation to give a nutritional boost to Queenie’s diet and add a bit of variety to her food bowl. Just remember: any additions to your dog’s meals shouldn’t comprise more than 25 percent of her weekly caloric requirement.

Yogurt (pictured above) is a good source of available calcium and protein. When choosing yogurt, pick one that has live active bacteria and no sugars or artificial sweeteners. The active bacteria may act as probiotics. If your pooch is pudgy, make sure that you pick fat-free yogurt but not one that contains fat substitutes (e.g., Simplesse or Olestra). Frozen yogurt is a nice summer treat for dogs.

Flax seed (ground or oil) is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fatty acids that are good for skin and coat. Whole flax seeds are best if ground right before feeding as this type of fat can go rancid quickly. Flax seed 72 moderndog

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can also be added to your dog’s diet as a source of fibre. Flax oil is a more concentrated form of omega3 fatty acids without the fibre. Make sure that you store the oil or seeds in the fridge in an air tight dark container.

Salmon is a fatty fish which is also a good source of omega3 fatty acids. These fats support the immune system and can be beneficial for skin and coat health. There has also been some indication that they may benefit dogs with allergies. You can feed salmon or salmon oil. If feeding salmon, make sure it’s cooked before serv-

ing, as raw salmon can carry a parasite that can make your dog sick.

Pumpkin is a good source of fibre and beta carotene (a source of vitamin A). Dogs need fibre in their diet. The current trend is towards highly digestible diets that lower stool volume and this is not necessarily a good thing. Keeping the GI tract moving helps keep the cells lining the gut healthy.

Give a nutritional boost to Queenie’s diet and add a bit of variety to her food bowl.

Sweet potatoes are another source of dietary fibre and contain vitamin B6, vitamin C, beta carotene, and manganese. Sweet potatoes are great sliced and dehydrated as a chewy treat for your dog. There are so many dog treats on the market that we often overlook the simple, healthy, and reasonably priced treats available at our grocery store.

Green beans are a good source of plant fibre, vitamin K, vitamin C, and manganese. If your dog has a tendency to put on weight, then replacing some of her regular food with green beans is a great lowcalorie way to fill her up and help her maintain a healthy weight. Many dogs enjoy green beans frozen.

Eggs are a great source of very digestible protein, riboflavin, and selenium. For some dogs that are prone to digestive upset, eggs

can give them a little protein boost. Adding eggs to your dog’s food is a healthy treat. Make sure to use cooked whole egg, as raw egg whites can cause biotin deficiency. If you do a lot of training with your dog, consider taking cooked eggs to your next class as training treats.

Brewer’s yeast is the yeast that’s left over from making alcohol. Dogs seem to really enjoy the tangy taste of brewer’s yeast. It’s full of B vitamins which are good for skin, coat, and carbohydrate metabolism. Make sure you’re using brewer’s yeast (available at health food stores), not baking yeast which will make your dog sick. Brewer’s yeast can spice up your dog’s appetite. Just sprinkle a little on the food of a picky eater and watch her dive into her food.

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Apples are wonderful crunchy treats for your dog. Apples with the skin on are full of plant chemicals (phytonutrients) that are thought to be protective against some types of cancer in humans. They are a source of vitamins A and C and fibre. If you have a bouncy dog, play fetch with a frozen apple and watch her have fun eating her “ball.”

As always, check with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they are on any medications. Upsetting the vitamin and mineral balances in your dog’s diet can have negative effects on your dog’s health and some medications interact badly with some nutrients. The aim of most dog owners is to give their dogs the best diet possible. Good nutrition coupled with a health care

program may result in extending your dog’s life by as much as 15 percent. The suggestions above are not meant to replace your dog’s normal, balanced diet. Rather, they are ideas for alternative treats or for adding a little variety to your dog’s meals. n Laura Scott holds a Master’s degree in animal nutrition. She lives with two Golden Retrievers, a 12-yearold couch potato and 2-year-old who loves training and competing in dog sports. Liz Pask is a PhD candidate studying nutritional toxicology. She has two Labrador Retrievers who train and compete in a variety of sports.

Sweet potatoes are great sliced and dehydrated as a chewy treat for your dog.

Oatmeal is a good source of soluble fibre. This can be beneficial for some older dogs that may have trouble maintaining bowel regularity. Oatmeal is also an alternative source of grain for dogs that are allergic to wheat. It can be fed in conjunction with probiotics to enhance their function. Keep in mind oatmeal should always be fed cooked and plain with no sugar or flavouring.

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body &soul The Doctor’s In Dr. Betsy Brevitz tackles common veterinary vexations

Dire Dandruff A flaky mess

My 10-year-old Shepherd mix has what looks like the world’s worst case of dandruff. Some of the flakes are as big as a dime. He also smells so bad no one wants to get near him. What can I do? A: If you’ve ever paid close attention to magazine ads for dandruff shampoo, you’ve probably seen the word “seborrhea,” the medical term for a skin irritation whose primary symptom is flaky skin. From your description, it sounds like your dog has seborrhea. A dog with seborrhea is usually itchy as well as flaky. He might have small bumps, scabs, or pimples on the skin. His hair may be thin in some areas, or he may have patches that are almost totally bald. Seborrhea comes in two main forms: oily and dry. You’ll know which type your dog has by rubbing a flaky area of his skin and hair and seeing whether it feels greasy or not. Breeds that are prone to oily seborrhea include Cocker Spaniels, Bassett Hounds, English Springer Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, Shar-Peis, and West Highland White Terriers. Breeds that are prone to dry seborrhea include Dachshunds, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, and Irish Setters. Pair a dog with seborrhea with an owner who believes that dogs shouldn’t be bathed and you have a real mess. In fact, frequent bathing is critical to treating seborrhea. A dog who has “the world’s worst dandruff” should be bathed every other day for a week or 10 days, however long it takes to remove the majority of the flakes and debris from the skin. The baths should then be tapered off to twice a week, once a week, and when the disease

The Doctor

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seems to be completely under control, a minimum of once a month. What’s important is getting rid of flakes and other skin debris; not only are they extremely itchy, but they also create the perfect environment for secondary bacterial or fungal skin infections. A dog who has dry seborrhea should be bathed with a shampoo that contains sulphur or salicylic acid. One who has oily seborrhea should be bathed with a shampoo that contains coal tar, benzoyl peroxide, or selenium sulphide, which degrease the skin. When bathing a dog with seborrhea, wet him thoroughly with warm (not hot) water; lather him well, using plenty of shampoo and concentrating on the flaky areas of his skin; leave the lather on for 10 or 15 minutes using whatever judo holds or distracting maneuvers you can think of to keep him in the tub; then rinse him with lukewarm water until all traces of shampoo are gone. If his skin is dry, apply a soothing rinse or spray after bathing— something that contains colloidal oatmeal, essential fatty acids, urea, or glycerin. Essential fatty acids given orally also help relieve the itch in some dogs with seborrhea. Other treatments for seborrhea depend on the underlying factors, if any. In some dogs, seborrhea is a symptom of allergies, a bacterial or fungal skin infection, or parasites. (If a dog has “walking dandruff”—small flakes that move—he has a skin mite.) In other cases, seborrhea is a stand-alone problem. Have your vet take a look at your dog’s skin to determine whether he needs antibiotics for a skin infection, corticosteroids for extreme itchiness or inflammation, treatment for parasites, or other adjuncts to the bathing regime. n Excerpted from Hound Health Handbook Copyright © 2004 by Urbanhound, LLC Used by permission of Workman Publishing Co., Inc. New York All Rights Reserved. Available wherever books are sold.

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Jeans shorts, Ksubi; tank, Alternative Apparel; and bracelets, Alex and Ani.

Rachelle Lefevre One soy latté and a dash of Honey By Mary-Jo Dionne Photographed by Kharen Hill Hair, Marcus Francis Makeup, tiffany Johnson Styling, Clare Mukherjee

achelle Lefevre’s signature auburn curls don’t so much “fall” down her back as they “cascade.” This is the first thing I notice as she approaches our table at an LA sidewalk café. Instantly recognizable for her portrayal of the blood-ravenous vampire Victoria in the film version of Stephanie Meyer’s bestseller Twilight, Rachelle’s rising popularity might explain the onslaught of looky-loo passersby. With book sales topping 42,000,000 and its on-screen counterpart so successful that production of sequel New Moon is already well underway, Meyer’s brainchild is nothing short of a phenomenon. Regardless of the saga’s cult following, however, I am not entirely convinced that Rachelle-spotting is what has caused all the neck swivelling. For lying at the feet of this soy-latté-sipping redhead is a bullystick-chewing blonde named Honey. One part tiny dog and three parts Mary’s little lamb, this sweetie gives her mommy a run for her head-turning money. MD: Is it just me, or is Honey drawing people in?

RL: I have never seen people gravitate towards a dog like they gravitate towards her. MD: As soon as I saw you, I went right for her. I didn’t even say hi to you. No offence. RL: Everybody’s like that with her. MD: It’s amazing how something so small can have such an effect. How much does she weigh? RL: She’s flirting with six pounds. MD: How long have you had her? RL: One month and two days. My boyfriend and I had talked about getting a dog for about a year and a half. We’re both actors and so lifestyle considerations were important. We knew it needed to be right, so that we were comfortable enough with our jobs that we had an answer for every situation. Then it was about finding the right dog. We wanted to get a rescue. That was non-negotiable. And then, about a month ago, we were driving home and we saw a sign for doggie adoptions. We went in and we were cooing over this one little dog and the guy who worked there yelled from the back: “Show them Butternut!” That was Honey’s name then. And they put her in our arms and it was just like….

“We wanted to get a rescue. That was non-negotiable.”

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Dress, Camilla and Marc; necklace, Alex and Ani. Facing page top: Dress, Nicholas K. Bottom: Dress, Camilla and Marc; necklace, Alex and Ani.

MD: Done. RL: Done. Literally, everything stopped and my boyfriend and I looked at each other, and we were like: “Where do we sign?” MD: Is this your first dog? RL: Yes. MD: Now you’ll never be able to not be a dog person. RL: Oh, fully! When we’re not with her, my heart hurts. MD: Well, when you’re filming in Vancouver, she’s mine. RL: You’re the eighth person this week to offer! We’ve now met the whole neighbourhood. It took me over a year to meet the people who live next to us. Now, after four weeks, we know everybody. She has a boyfriend up the street, Mr. Pickles. MD: Honey and Pickles? What are they, the pregnancycravings couple? In terms of filming, you’ve appeared on series like CSI: NY, The Closer, and How I Met Your Mother. What do you enjoy about these stints? RL: I know people who don’t enjoy doing them. And definitely having to go from one job to the next is harder than having a steady job—that’s true in any business. But for me, I’ve never felt that way. I love it. I find it really liberating. Because the truth is, rarely are you the central storyline. So that pressure to carry it is not on you. You still have to do a good job—you still have to bring it. But there is a freedom where I can try new things. And you get to work with the most incredible actors. Neil Patrick Harris? Watching him work…I learned so much that week. MD: You allegedly sent Twilight director Catherine Hardwicke a letter before you were cast as Victoria. Can you share its contents? RL: The first part of the letter was how much I loved the books. I read Twilight right before my audition, and I read New Moon shortly after. So it was about why my desire to be a part of it was genuine. The second part was how Catherine had been on my wish list of directors since Thirteen and Lords of Dogtown. And lastly, it was about the character. The truth is, [Victoria] was who I felt connected to. Stephanie describes her as always on the balls of her feet, like she could pounce at any moment. She just seemed to be free and instinctive and I was attracted to that.

“Everything gets weighed against: Do I want to spend two hours in hair and make-up? Or do I want to stay in and cuddle with the puppy?”

“And they put her in our arms and it was just like...done.”

MD: How would you describe Victoria? RL: She has been described as evil. But I don’t see her as evil at all. Nature is about a food chain, and she is just at the top of the food chain. Nature doesn’t have those moral applications. It comes down to instinct. And eating something…there’s no malice in it. I just see her as really powerful. MD: Given the intensity of Hollywood, how do you think having Honey will keep things in perspective? RL: She is adding to the perspective I was already trying to keep. There’s always a party, there’s always a premiere, and you can get invited to a lot of things. I’m certainly not a club-goer or a partygirl, but she’s just made it easier to not get caught up. Everything gets weighed against: Do I want to spend two hours in hair and make-up? Or do I want to stay in and cuddle with the puppy? MD: And now for the most important question: Who would play Honey in the movie of her life? RL: Unfortunately, she’s passed away now, but it would be Katharine Hepburn. Honey has all these little quirks and she will let you know: “I can do cute, funny, and sweet, but don’t mess with me.” In the same way that Katharine Hepburn—all petite and dainty—might have barked at a bigger dog. Katharine seemed so fiercely independent and Honey will cuddle with you, but she is not needy. She wants you to know, “I’m going to take care of me.” n

Dress, Nicholas K. Facing page: Jeans, Current Elliot; blouse, Elizabeth and James.

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INSPIRATION

No Boundaries By Corey Van’t Haaff

Prodigious Pal T

arra is big. Really big. Over 8 feet tall and 8,700 pounds. Not very surprising, as she’s an Asian elephant. Bella is small, about the height of Tarra’s knee. She’s a rescued dog living at The Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tennessee. What could two such different animals have in common? Apparently, quite a lot, as despite their differences, these two have formed an inseparable bond. Sanctuary founder Carol Buckley reports that the unlikely pair eat, drink, play, and sleep together. Bella enjoys resting in the shade cast by her bulky buddy. Tarra strokes the dog with her trunk, and Bella lies on her back so the elephant can rub her tummy with her giant foot. A popular clip on Youtube shows the two ambling side by side across some of the 2,700 open acres of the sanctuary. When Bella was injured and confined to a bed indoors, Tarra held vigil outside, pressing her immense head against the fence nearby, waiting and watching for her missing friend. Finally, the patient was carried out so Tarra could see that Bella was mending. The reunion was such a success that it became a daily ritual until Bella was able to walk again. To watch a heartwarming video of Tarra and Bella, go to moderndogmagazine.com/articles/odd-couple/765.

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used w ith perm ission the elephant s anctuary in tennessee

Dogs love unconditionally, forgive easily, and are happy effortlessly. Dogs don’t care about the colour of our skin, the size of our bank accounts nor our IQs, astrological signs, or zip codes. They accept us as companions as easily (and sometimes more easily) than they chum up with other dogs and, remarkably, they seem just as willing to love and nurture other non-canines as well, as the following stories show.

Feline Friend I

“Dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive.” —Gilda Radner

n the mid-eighties, when I had owned my German Wirehaired Pointer, Freda, for about a year, I thought I should get her some company. I chose a cat, a five-week old tabby named Omega who was far too young to be away from her mommy-cat. I was also young, so I muddled through the best I could, mashing wet cat food with canned milk, not something I would now recommend. Freda had her own solution to this kitten problem: she developed a false pregnancy, and not only did she start producing milk, but she allowed Omega to nurse from her for many weeks. Although a bout of mastitis eventually put an end to the nursing, they continued to sleep together, and Freda would often have little scratches on her tummy where Omega would knead her with her paws as she fell asleep nestled up against her. The two also worked together. When I would thaw food on the counter, out of Freda’s reach, Omega would jump up and paw the food to the edge where it was easily accessed by my dog. The two of them formed a bond that would last their lifetimes, and many years later, when Freda died, it must have broken her buddy’s heart, because two weeks later, Omega also passed away.

Polar Playmate

photo norber t rosing

n the harsh climate of the far north, “kill or be killed” is the rule for survival and the relationship between dogs and wild animals is usually one of predator and prey, with the dog sometimes as hunter and sometimes as the hunted. In one amazing incident, however, this scenario was set aside when a group of sled dogs in Canada’s Hudson Bay area made a new frosty friend; the entire exchange was captured by German wildlife photographer Norbert Rosing. In the frozen tundra near Churchill, Manitoba, a team of sled dogs was tied up when a Polar Bear approached. Grabbing his camera to capture what he expected to be a fight to the death, Rosing instead chronicled the Huskies and the bear starting to play. Photographs show bear and dogs pawing, mouthing, and wrestling companionably together with no harm done to either party. The bear reportedly came back every night for a week to continue to play with the dogs. The photographs show no images of hostility, aggression, or even fear, but rather curiosity, kindness and a genuine interest in exploring the unfamiliar.

It should really come as no surprise to us that dogs have this ability to befriend so many different creatures. After all, they have been doing it with our species, human beings, for centuries. From them, we can learn acceptance, tolerance, openmindedness, and unquestioning love. Like Gilda Radner said, dogs are the role models for being alive. We should follow their lead. n moderndogmagazine.com

Keep your dog mentally sharp

Brain Boosting Games

By Jennifer Messer

re you a crossword addict? Sudoko fan? Or maybe a bridge fiend? If so, you’ll be happy to hear that brain games—activities that demand mental problem solving—aren’t only fun, they are also good for the mind… both human AND canine. Memory and learning ability tend to decline with age, in both people and dogs. In fact, the types of brain changes, from normal aging to diseases like Alzheimer’s, are so similar between dogs and people that dogs are used as a model to study mental decline in human aging. The good news is that brain games help reduce some age-related brain changes. While it isn’t clear yet which specific cognitive exercises work best, the general consensus is that “use it or lose it” holds as true for human and canine minds as it does for our bodies, so Fido better perk up his ears if he wants to keep track of where the bones are buried in his sunset years. To help you keep those canine cognitive wheels well greased, here are a few awesome brain boosters that most dogs rate with two paws up and a big wag of approval.

200-word vocabulary, for ideas on how to crank it up a notch (www.aaas.org/news/ releases/2004/0610rico.shtml).

One, two, threes Get some small healthy treats, or kibble. Hold six pieces in one closed hand, and two in the other. Ask your dog to sit, hold your hands shoulder width apart, about arm’s length from your dog, and then open your palms and say “small.” Only let him chow down if he picks the smaller group—just close your palms and start over if he picks the bigger one. You can hand him the six after he gobbles the two—as an added bonus for choosing correctly. Randomly switch up which hand has the smaller number so he isn’t just learning to choose “right” or “left.” If he’s SUCH a chowhound that he just beelines for either hand willy-nilly, make him wait a few seconds before you say “small” so he takes the time to think. The closer the quantities, the tougher the task: if he can choose correctly between four and five you may need to enroll him in a doggie PhD!

ABCs

Hot-Cold

How many toys does your dog know the names of? Increase his vocabulary by teaching him to retrieve each toy by name. Start with his two favourites, and teach him to fetch them by name one at a time, in a room with no other toys to choose from. If he isn’t a naturally motivated retriever, use lots of praise, tug, or treats to reward the good fetches. Once he knows the names of two toys, put both on the floor and ask him to fetch them one at a time. Reward correct choices with whatever turns his crank, and by continuing the game. Respond to incorrect choices by repeating the request, and eventually guiding him toward the right toy if he really needs help. If he can succeed with two, try three or more. This is really tough brain work, so expect to build up his vocabulary very gradually. If you think you might have a doggie Einstein on your hands, check out Rico, the world-famous Border Collie with a

This is a top pick for lazy owners with brilliant dogs. Sit back on the couch with your choice beverage in one hand, and a handful of small healthy treats in the other. Ignore any attempts by your dog to approach you directly for food. Think of a doggie action, like walking over to the bookshelf and making contact with it. Watch her for ANY movement in the right direction, and when you spot it say “HOT!” in an excited tone, and toss her a treat, but not too close to you OR the bookshelf. Gradually hold out for movement that is closer and closer to the action on your mind, and see how she reacts. If she’s a quick giver-upper you’ll need to make it easy for her so she doesn’t quit on you. If she’s a real tryer, you can let her get frustrated and rack her brains a bit harder. If you stumble on an action that will make a neat party trick, just throw in a command once she’s good at it, and you’re set.

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Earning the kibble Do you waste time and get aggravated searching for your misplaced purse or keys? Let your dog earn some of her kibble by helping you out. Dab these items with the tiniest drop of her favourite essential oil—so little that you don’t even notice it—and teach her to find them by scent, on request. Rewarding successful search missions with a stuffed chewtoy will keep her content as you head out the door, and motivate speedy and reliable retrieves. Ever find yourself half asleep in bed, only to realize you didn’t close the bedroom door or turn off the light? Hop online or pick up a book on “targeting and clicker training” and teach your dog to use his snout to shut the door, and his paw to flick off the light switch. If you aren’t a morning person, you may want to put him in charge of turning the lights on to get you going. And no, you cannot safely teach him to make you a coffee!

The shell game Have your dog sit, and let him see you hide one piece of kibble under a cup on the floor. Tell him to “take it,” and when he noses or knocks over the cup let him eat the kibble it was hiding. Once he’s good at this he is ready for the shell game. Rub kibble on your fingers and along the inside of three mugs lined up in a row, so the smell of it is everywhere—this is a visual tracking game and we don’t want him cheating with his talented nose! Let him see you hide a piece of kibble under one of the mugs. Tell him to “take it” and give him the kibble when he makes the right choice, no matter how long it takes him, and no matter how many mistakes he makes. Do this many times, hiding kibble under each of the three mugs, one at a time. When he’s good at this step, slide just the kibble-hiding mug to a different spot before telling him to “take it.” This is pretty tough, and not all dogs can do it. Finally, if your dog seems gifted, try swapping two mugs and see if he can track the kibble-hiding one. This game is EXTREMELY challenging, so don’t start out working him like a grifter or you won’t get anywhere! Success at any level means he is no Forest Gump! Interactive brain games are a fun way to socialize with your dog, while encouraging healthy intellectual exercise at the same time. If you and your pooch enjoy physical activity as much as brainwork, there are also oodles of organized dog sports—agility, tracking, and flyball, to name a few—that work your minds and bodies together. Learning to engage your dog in these activities at just the right skill level is hard brain work for you, too, so now you have lots of activities to choose from that will help keep you BOTH mentally sharp! n

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When a Puppy Cries story & photographs by carreen maloney

n some places, an animal-like survival instinct can mean the difference between life and death. That’s how it goes in Calli Vanderaa’s infamously squalid section of town. The war zone that is gang-infested inner-city Winnipeg constitutes one of Canada’s most dangerous neighbourhoods. After two years spent living at despair’s Ground Zero, this little girl has seen it all. Six of the city’s drug- or gang-related slayings last year happened within a two-street radius of her house. Once, a dead body turned up near her backyard. A crack house a couple of doors down used to blight the street—until it was firebombed. Surviving the notorious North End has honed the nine-year-old’s instincts and her ears. They are tuned to pick up the cries for help that no one else hears. It was last summer that Calli and her 34-year-old single dad, Corey, made a grisly discovery in the back alley behind their rental house while they were tossing grass clippings into a large metal dumpster. As they turned to walk away, Calli stopped. She had heard something Corey didn’t: faint whimpering coming from the dumpster. Corey had to use a stool to boost himself high enough to peer inside. What he witnessed when he looked over the edge was something he wouldn’t let Calli see— the charred bodies of two seven-week-old puppies. They had been put in a box and set on fire. And left for dead. But there was a third puppy and she was still alive, crying and cowering in the corner. The puppy went limp as Corey picked her up and hoisted her out. The father and daughter took the terrified sole survivor home, where she promptly hid under the coffee table for

(left) Calli and a Winnipeg Humane Society shelter dog.

She had heard something Corey didn’t: faint whimpering coming from the dumpster. an hour. Later that evening, they bathed her in the kitchen sink. To Calli’s surprise, the soot-covered dog she would come to call Jessie was transformed from black to a caramel brown color. I first told Modern Dog readers about Calli’s story on my blog back in December, less than two weeks before Christmas. Reader response to this compassionate little girl rescuer was swift and overwhelming. They wept, they praised, they were inspired. They fell in love. It wasn’t just Calli’s rescue of Jessie that captured their hearts, it was her courage, too. They were touched by how—just like Jessie—Calli has also been victimized by the violence of the neighbourhood, and struck by how her experiences gave her the heightened awareness that allowed her to sense another creature in peril; to hear a pup’s cries for help, as only another puppy could. When Calli moved into the area as a Grade 2 student, the skinny, pretty, and perky girl stuck out as a moving target. She was being picked on but wouldn’t back down. In short order, she got into three fights. One was sparked by a boy in Grade 5 calling her a “f------ white bitch.” She’s now in Grade 4, and attending a safer school. But a few months ago as she walked home, a 13-year-old boy with a pellet gun shot Calli in the left shoulder blade. “Now I take Judo. It’s for my own protection,” she said. When I first interviewed Calli at her home in Winnipeg, I asked where her Santa list was. She told me she had taken it down from the fridge because all she wanted was to “spend time with my daddy.” She (right) A tribute to a girl’s best friend. “Here is my poem about my little friend,” Calli wrote in the letter she submitted to her hometown newspaper, the Winnipeg Free Press. She hoped to raise awareness of animal cruelty, and included this penciled ode to her dog, Jessie, pictured.

knew the strain of buying gifts would be hard on her father, a long-haul truck driver who clears snow part-time to pay the bills. Sundays are usually their only time together. Corey has been raising his daughter by himself since her mother left for the United States when Calli was just 18 months old. Since then, he’s had a series of financial setbacks. Two years ago, they moved to the less expensive inner city, where Corey’s 76-year-old mother Betty travels from across town to help out. It’s no wonder my blog readers were so touched by Calli’s story. An avalanche of gifts, cash, cards, and letters came pouring in. People extended offers to babysit Calli and Jessie or to find them safer accommodations in a better neighbourhood, at their own homes if need

be. One man even wrote that he would try to get Corey a better job at his workplace, one that would keep him closer to home, and to Calli. I was back in Winnipeg recently to check in with Calli and see how she and Jessie were doing. As we drove to the Winnipeg Humane Society for a shelter tour, where Calli recently received a Humane Hero award, she began to tell me a story about another incident of animal cruelty she had witnessed not too long ago. “Once I saw a little kid grab a cat’s leg and hit it against the fence, and it died. It was a white cat. I started to cry.” She pointed out the house where the little boy who did it lived. How old? I asked. He was three, she said. Calli, who just turned 10 in February, thinks she knows why the child killed the cat.

My dog Jessie I heard a little puppy crying in a garbage bin My daddy picked her out cause she was scared and very thin. We took her home and bathed her then to our surprise she wasn’t black but golden brown with big brown puppy eyes. We took her to the doctor and he said she’s doing fine How can people be so cruel why can’t they just be kind?

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“It’s because some people are treated bad when they’re young,” were her wise words. Despite difficult circumstances, Calli shows a great sense of responsibility towards her puppy. Rather than using her pocket money to buy something nice for herself, she was saving small change in two coffee cans to pay for Jessie’s spay surgery when I first met her. She was wise enough to understand that in this pet overpopulation crisis, the cycle of death must be halted. Readers soon took care of the surgery, too. Veterinary clinics, the local shelter, and several individuals offered to pay for it. The dog, nearly six months old at the time, was at the clinic overnight being spayed while I was in town. “I miss Jessie,” Calli said. “This is the longest I’ve ever been away from her. But this is so she can’t have babies.” Some animal rescuers are born. Others are made. In Calli’s case, it’s both. Calli galvanized Modern Dog blog readers because she heard a puppy crying and readers heard her cry, too, showing her that people in neighbourhoods far from hers do care. Calli started out saving Jessie, but in the end, Jessie saved her right back. Now that’s what I call true puppy love. n

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the modern dog’s guide to

t o r o nto >where to shop, eat, stay, and play. By Karin Sinkevicius

•

Illustration by Paul Dotey

Sniffed out: the city’s best ideas for a full day of doggie nirvana. Herewith, Toronto’s top dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, shops, and outdoor spots. Renaissance Toronto Hotel Downtown

>s tay

Le Méridien King Edward

21 Avenue Rd. (416) 964-0411 Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s trendiest zip code, the plush Four Seasons Hotel in Yorkville welcomes its four-legged guests with bottled water and a dog bowl; treats, food, brushes, and even a pet-sitter are available upon request. There is a 15-pound maximum, but no charges for the fuzzy family member staying. fourseasons.com/toronto The Fairmont Royal York

> eat This otherwise savvy city can be a little strict when it comes to its canine community. Dogs aren’t permitted in any establishments serving food, but we’ve rounded up a couple that will welcome your wellbehaved, leashed pooch on their patio.

The Fairmont Royal York 100 Front St. W. (416) 368-2511 The Fairmont Royal York is a luxe landmark in the heart of one of Canada’s most historic cities. While you luxuriate in fivestar treatment, your pup will enjoy a dog bed, bowls, and dog-sitting services on request. There is an additional $25 per day fee for Fido (20 pounds and under only) to accompany you. fairmont.com/royalyork/

Four Seasons

37 King St. E. (416) 863-9700 Le Méridien King Edward offers classic comfort from its financial district locale, close to the harbour front, shopping, and entertainment. A welcome kit packed with doggie supplies and area information to enhance your stay will greet you and your jet-set pet, and if you notify reservations you’ll be toting Toto along, your room will be Rover-ready with a dog bed, bowls, and a floor mat. No extra fees are levied for canine guests but there is a 40-pound maximum size limit. starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien

One Blue Jays Way (416) 341-7100 Take Rover out to the ballgame: get a suite at the Renaissance Toronto Hotel and watch a Blue Jays game from the comfort of your room. Attached to the Rogers Centre, the Renaissance offers 70 field-view rooms for guests and their canine companions. Dogs of all sizes welcome for a $50 per night fee. www.renaissancetoronto.com

Sassafraz

100 Cumberland St. (416) 964-2222 Be equally charmed by the little yellow house Sassafraz occupies as by the mouthwatering menu, which includes Canadian artisan cheese, weekend brunch specials, and an extensive wine list. Enjoy your perch on the patio, a great vantage point from which to watch the hustle and bustle of Yorkville’s elite while accompanied by your pup. sassafraz.ca moderndogmagazine.com

Charlotte Room Restaurant 19 Charlotte St. (416) 598-2882 Take a break from strolling the downtown streets and hit the patio of the Charlotte Room with your pooch, the perfect spot to while away a sunny afternoon people watching and snacking on traditional pub fare. charlotteroom.com

Petote, and Haute Diggity Dog—among many other labels—in their trendy Queen West neighbourhood locale. Or head to their Queen Street East outpost to shop with the hip-hound denizens of that hood. timmie.ca

>s hop Titus & Galuteus

Bark & Fitz

#3–334 Lakeshore Rd. E. (905) 842-2756 2116 Queen St. E. (416) 699-1313 1959 Bloor St. W. (416) 916-6207 2570 Yonge St. (416) 483-4431 Stroll through the trendy Oakville neighbourhood and stop in at the original Bark & Fitz store, or head to Queen, Bloor, or Yonge Streets for other Bark & Fitz locations. This fast-expanding string of dog boutiques is stocked with healthy and holistic food along with tasty fresh-baked treats, the latest in eco-friendly toys, and stylish gear. It’s a paws-down must on your Toronto to-do list. barkandfitz.com

1004 King St. W. (416) 596-9066 For Canadian-made couture, visit Titus & Galuteus where you can pick up Muttluks, Buddy Belts, Woof Pet Cosmetics from Montreal, and custom-made Bowsers Beds. Couple your shopping with a little salon service; full- and self-serve options are available, from complete toe-to-tail grooming to a la carte-like options such as a nail trim or teeth cleaning.

Bobo Canada

777 Bay St., College Park Phase 2, Unit M207A (416) 913-1044 Hit Bobo Canada for stylish finds from beds to bags, treats to toys, accessories to grooming products; Bobo’s got everything a discerning dog could want. If it’s a more intimate shopping experience your V.I.P(ooch) is looking for, book ahead for a private appointment. bobocanada.com

>play Discovery Walks Discover the natural and social history of Toronto with your four-legged pal. Print out the self-guided maps before you set out, leash up, and take one of 11 walking tours of the city that include landmarks, beaches, park gardens, and ravines. Look for Discovery Walks under Quick Links at toronto.ca/parks.

The Dog Beach at Kew Gardens Spaw Boutique

Timmie Doggie Outfitters

867 Queen St. W. (416) 203-6789 1178 Queen St. E. (416) 406-4999 Fashionable Fidos have two Timmie Doggie Outfitters to choose from for the haute-est in canine couture, tasty treats, and irresistible toys. Snap up the latest stylish offerings from Chi Wow Wow,

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852 King St. W. (416) 366-7729 If your pup’s in need of some sprucing up post travel, stop by the luxurious Spaw Boutique, housed in a converted Victorian house, for full breed-specific grooming. Or simply pop in for a quick pawdicure before heading to the dog park across the street to show it off. If you’re planning some touristy activities that don’t allow Fido, doggie daycare is available as well. spawboutique.com

2075 Queen St. E. At the foot of Lee Avenue is a fenced area of beach where dogs can roam free in the surf and sand, a breath of fresh air for city-dwelling canines and their visiting brethren. All Toronto off-leash parks require Fido to be licensed in their respective hometowns. For a complete listing of dog parks, visit toronto.ca/parks.

Petopia Doggie Daycare and Resort 265 Bartley Dr. (416) 429-7387 For a play-date extraordinaire or overnight stay, head to Petopia, easily accessible

from downtown Toronto and offering the ultimutt pet experience. With separate play areas for large and small dogs, overnight luxury suites boasting television and music, toys galore, and the largest fenced outdoor run in Toronto, your dog will be begging for a sleepover. Suffer from separation anxiety? Peek at your puppy via webcam while you enjoy a night out on the town. petopia.ca

Dog Paddling Adventures

35B – 10520 Yonge St, Suite 230, Richmond Hill (905) 237-3647 Get back to nature with a Dog Paddling Adventure. Embark on a Paws and Paddle day trip or get adventurous with three- or fiveday expeditions into Algonquin Park that include canoeing, hiking, swimming, and plenty of off-leash action. The one-day trips take place about an hour from the city center, while the three-day trips are closer to a three-hour drive from Toronto. Show up with your outdoor clothes, don’t forget the dog food, and they’ll take care of the rest: gear, scrumptious meals, a guide, and a doggone good time. dogpaddlingadventures.com n

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art attack

by Marni Wedin

Diana Betteridge

rtist Diana Betteridge has always felt a strong connection to the canine spirit. “Dogs have a very human quality,” she says. “By being ever-present, they represent an evolved consciousness that emanates love. ” Betteridge explores this connection in her latest body of work, “D.O.G.,” a celebration of the relationship and the love we share with dogs. It was the love of her own furry companion, Buddy, that inspired Betteridge to paint dogs. As she was painting Buddy, she says she “felt a body of work start to emerge.” For Betteridge, each dog has a unique personality and spirit; and her challenge is to bring each dog’s authenticity to the canvas. She does this by first taking 100 to 150 photographs of her canine subject in a natural setting. Working from all shots simultaneously, she creates a drawing that captures the dog’s essence. Betteridge will further explore her subject by re-drawing it several times with different materials like charcoal and pastels. She stretches, treats, and tints each canvas herself before committing the final drawing to it. Once the form has been sketched onto the coloured canvas, Betteridge, working primarily with oils, adds paint to the piece.

To accurately reflect the truth of each dog, Betteridge employs different techniques, such as underpainting. Whether it’s an underlying grieving, as in the portraits of Nova, or the joyful majesty of Huck, each painting evokes a different truth and feeling. Betteridge found the dogs she painted around her neighbourhood, at the park, or while she was driving. “I’ve jumped out of my car to connect with a dog that inspired me,” she says. Most owners wholeheartedly granted her permission to paint their dogs. While honing her craft primarily on her own, Betteridge has taken courses such as photography, drawing, oil painting, and anatomy, when she felt the need to learn a new technique. She never knows which technique a certain painting will require and relies on the diversity of her craft to reflect the authenticity of her subjects. She’s an artist in the truest, highest sense: one who stays true to her artistic voice, listening to the messages it sends, acting as a constant medium between spirit and form. Betteridge is open to doing commissioned work. To view her complete D.O.G. collection, and for contact information, visit dianabetteridge.com. n

Her challenge is to bring each dog’s authenticity to the canvas.

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For the lactose-intolerant, Double Dipped Ice Cream Cones by Bill Pickles are an all-natural cookie alternative to the real thing. billpickles.com

Be prepared with the Houndbag at your side. With space for bags, training treats, and toys, a pooproof pocket for post-potty time, space for cash, keys, and your phone, and even a handle that converts into a leash, you’ll have your hands free and be set for any eventuality! houndbag.ca

Stylish screen doors by Yesteryear’s Vintage Doors allow Rover to safely sniff the breeze. Or choose a solid wood door with a pet panel and let your pup come and go as she pleases. vintagedoors.com

Your canine companion—or his leather likeness, anyways—can now guard your keys, too. vanca.com

doggie styles Woof’s Your Sign? DogOscopes’ astrologyinspired ID tags come in two sizes and are accompanied by a horoscope for your complex canine. dogoscopes.com

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Spread the word: Peace is in. Outfit Fido in comfort and style with the appliquéd Peace in my Heart tank by Wooflink. wooflink.com

Dress your dog in summer style with a Pucci-inspired print dress for your pup. kokocouture.com

For a one-of-a-kind doggie draft (why should Rover be the only one not imbibing at the barbeque?), order a six pack of safe-for-dogsto-drink Bowser Beer with a customized label featuring your mutt’s mug. Even name the brew for your best bud. 3busydogs.com

Quick clips Mani/Pedi. Use the QuickFinder deluxe QuickSensor to safely trim your dog’s nails without clipping the quick. quickfinderclipper.com

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(above) Arthur Wardle, English, 1864-1949 Field Spaniels of the Twentieth Century, 1906 From Dog Painting: A History of the Dog in Art

Connie’s Book Club Hit the beach with a good dog and a good book. eDITOr-IN-CHIeF CONNIe WIlSON’S SeleCTIONS FOr SOMe GreAT SuMMer reADING

Dog Painting: A History of the Dog in Art (Antique Collectors’ Club; 2009) By William Secord William Secord, founding director of The Dog Museum of America and noted authority on nineteenth-century dog painting, surveys a remarkable selection of over 500 paintings that richly illustrate the beauty and diversity of dogs represented in art. With the work of such artists as George Stubbs and John Wooton included and the paintings reproduced in glorious colour plates, this is an irresistible coffee table book to flip through as well as an enlightening indepth read. The book traces the representation of a wide range of dog groups, including pets, shows dogs, and field dogs, and extensively covers the history in art of popular breeds such as King Charles Spaniels, pugs, and labrador retrievers. Secord discusses how the nineteenth century was greatly influenced by Queen Victoria, who not only owned numerous dogs, but also had them painted, leading to the unprecedented rage for commissioned dog paintings. Knowledgably written with wit and enthusiasm, Dog Painting is not only a delight to behold but provides an invaluable reference for both the dog fancier and lay reader alike. For a first-hand look at some of the works represented in the book, stop by to visit the author in his gallery in upper Manhattan or check out williamsecordgallery.com.

Forever Faithful: Dogs That Return (O Books; 2009) By Jenny Smedley If your spiritual journey has yet to begin, I have no doubt the story that unfolds in Forever Faithful will nudge you towards an awakening. If you’ve already embarked on a path of spiritual discovery, you’ll praise Smedley for demonstrating, through her love of animals and tender rendering of interspecies ties, how our souls are all connected. losing a much-loved dog is heartbreaking but in this lovely story, the author offers a take on death that posits that death is not necessarily the end of the relationship as “special” dogs often return to us, reappearing at our sides in a new body. Forever Faithful convincingly relates how one such dog found her way back to her owner in a new life.

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Canine Sports and Games: Great Ways to Get Your Dog Fit and Have Fun Together! (Storey; 2009) By Kristin Mehus-Roe Separation anxiety and unruliness are increasingly common problems born of the boredom and lack of exercise endemic among dogs who spend long hours home alone awaiting their owners. But you can fight back! engaging your dog’s mind and energy in a sport or game provides structure, training, and exercise, thus alleviating problems while providing fun bonding time for both you and your dog. Whether you want to channel your energetic dog’s exuberance into a non-destructive activity or simply want to find a sport that both you and your dog can have fun doing together, Canine Sports and Games is the book for you. With information on a full range of possibilities including tunneling, disc dog events, obedience, canine freestyle, carting, skijoring, flyball, and dock jumping, you’ll be instructed on how to find the right sport for your dog’s breed, personality, and fitness level. It’s easy to follow and enjoyable to read with insets, charts, illustrations, and helpful hints and tips, so, in no time at all, you’ll have found the right activity for both you and your furry best friend.

Animal Spirit Guides: Discover Your Power Animal and the Shamanic Path (Cico; 2009) By Chris Lüttichau For more than twenty years, healer and educator Chris lüttichau has practiced shamanism and in this book he brings his wisdom and experience to assist you in discovering your personal animal spirit guide. In essence, an animal spirit guide or power animal is a guardian spirit. lüttichau tells us that all animals, from the wolf to the ant, carry a message of guidance and hope and by inviting the spirit of an animal into your life using the traditional rituals of the shaman, you can deepen your affinity with the natural world and learn from the wisdom of your animal guide. Descriptions of more than 60 different animals and their medicine are offered (for example, the bear is healing/dreaming/strength; the eagle, messenger/ spirit/vision; and the dog, service/love/guardian), along with the methods by which to identify and connect with your animal guide. This interesting book and its beautiful illustrations will prompt both soul searching and conversation.

Dogs Kids PetMassage Petfinder.com The Adopted Dog Bible (Collins Living; 2009) By Kim Saunders (with foreword by Betsy Saul, Petfinder.com co-founder) This book is a must-have for anyone who has adopted or is thinking about adopting a sheltered or rescued dog. As petFinder’s first staff member and current Vp of Shelter Outreach at petfinder.com, Kim Saunders has both the experience and background to author this one-stop resource for new pup parents. In chapters such as “Will A Dog Fit into your life?” “Getting prepped For parenthood,” “Choosing the right Dog for you,” “pre-Adoption preliminaries,” and “Bringing your New Hound Home,” and with detailed information on everything from training to modifying undesirable behaviour, Saunders covers everything adopters need to know when adding a rescue to the equation. With assistance from an advisory board of experts, the author brings you invaluable information on how to handle all details of your daily life now that rover the rescue has joined your family, from introducing new diets to exercise, grooming, medical treatments (both holistic and conventional), to daily hygiene. Helpful hints, charts, diagrams, and photos put all the right information at your fingertips to seamlessly integrate your newly adopted dog into his forever home. n

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(PetMassage; 2008) By Jonathan Rudinger This book teaches kids the basic hands-on skills of canine massage and the principles of dog-handling safety. Starting off with stuffed animals, children get comfortable with the basic handling, touching, holding, and stroking involved in pet massage before moving to real dogs. Kids learn that through touch they can “feel” a dog’s fear, discomforts, or emotional distresses and by really tuning into a dog’s body language, they can connect and bond with dogs on a whole new level. Through repetition of the massage sequences, a child’s confidence in her new abilities to connect with and help her dog grows, as does her ability to connect with other species. pet massage is not only a great bonding activity for a family to do together but also teaches children the invaluable lesson that body language and thoughts can powerfully affect others, including their pets.

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Bothered and Bewildered? Crazed and Confused? if your doggie dilemma has you down in the dumps…

ask dog lady Q

Dear Dog Lady, We have a four-year-old Pomeranian named Frodo. He is in excellent health, full of energy and love, but he has one bad habit. He licks—licks my toes, feet, legs, arms, hands, face, ears…whatever is exposed. This is not just a love kiss, it is a complete bath. He kisses everyone else in the house, but seems to like to bathe me. Why does he do this and how can I help him to stop? I love him like crazy but I bathe every day and don’t think I need to do it twice or more with dog saliva. —Terry, Calgary, AB

Terry, first of all, Dog lady is smitten with the moniker “Frodo.” What an adorable and perfectly syllabic name for a dog. The inspiration, presumably, is Frodo Baggins, superstar in writer J.r.r. Tolkien’s magical world. Frodo is the elf-like Hobbit who bears a heavy burden of adventure. And doesn’t that perfectly describe our elfin dogs who are always getting into something? In Frodo’s case, the pom stars in an endless skin flick. Dog lady always believes that licking is loving, although some canine

cognoscenti say licking reflects anxiety, hunger, restlessness. Whatever. Dog lady thinks licking is a peaceful act of respect, submission, and scrounging for morsels (when licks are near the mouth). Because you are his taste leader, Frodo tells you again and again how sweet you are. (Who knows? Maybe your skin lotion tastes like ham gravy). you can train Frodo not to lick you so much. This is an easy correction. Just deny your dog the opportunity. As you say “no,” offer an alternative: a sock saturated with your smell, a dirty towel, or a chewie such as a bully stick. Dog lady’s dog never gives kisses because, honestly, the whole swapping saliva slurpy thing didn’t seem like fun. Dog lady wanted to preserve boundaries between her and the dog. He now licks Mr. Dog lady’s couch instead.

Dear Dog Lady, I’ve read in your column about husbands and wives who don’t see eye to eye about the dog, leading to fights and bad feelings. I want to tell you about my husband. We’re former college sweethearts and newlyweds. We got married in September. Before we got married, I told him I wanted a dog. He told me

he wanted to wait for a while. He also said he wanted a big dog like a German Shepherd. In December, we went to a breeder and brought home a French Bulldog. My husband wanted to call him Bronski. I wanted Bean. My husband asked me never to dress Bean in outfits and I promised not to do that. But I did buy the dog a matching harness and leash in a nice yellow print. My husband’s buddies ribbed him about that.

“Maybe your skin lotion tastes like ham gravy.” All of this goes to say I’ve never loved my husband more. He’s a wonderful dogfather to little Bean. He trains him and protects the dog in crazy weather when he takes him outside. We all take great walks together on the weekends. Bean has added so much to our lives, although we had a lot going for us long before we got the dog. I wanted to tell you a good story about a man, a woman, and a lucky dog. —Carla, New York, NY

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ask dog lady Carla, your sweet letter made Dog lady verklempt. you have everything a woman could dream of: a spouse to treasure and a French Bulldog named Bean in a chic harness and matching leash.

Dear Dog Lady, I have a nine-year-old 85-pound Husky mix. She is a great dog and is very friendly with people. However, some dogs she gets along with and some she doesn’t. It’s hard to tell, so I try to avoid letting her come in contact with other dogs, especially smaller dogs for fear of them fighting and her hurting the smaller dogs. I recently started dating a woman who has a 16-year-old beagle and a three-year-old Schnoodle (Schnauzer/Poodle). It’s really important to me that these dogs get along so our relationship can grow. What is a good way for me to introduce my dog to her dogs so that they can get to know each other and hopefully get along with each other without a potential problem? —Michael, Milwaukee, WI Michael, you are a stand-up guy. For you to ask this question and care about introducing the dogs in the right way proves you consider the natural progression of this relationship in a mature, thoughtful way. The woman you’re dating is a lucky gal. So is your dog. As the connection solidifies between the two of you, the tolerance among all the dogs will gradually grow. you can’t force anything. Do not introduce the pets indoors on anybody’s turf but take them on a fun long walk to nowhere or to a neutral park. plan the meeting for an afternoon that’s all about the dogs instead of tacking their socializing onto a rendezvous between you and your lady friend. Make dedicated dog dates. let the dogs freely sniff each other and ensure each dog has equal leashed—or unleashed—status. Keep handfuls of tiny treats handy. liberally reward the dogs for ignoring each other, which is the surest sign they are getting along. If you see any hint of nasty business, you or she should distract the offender by ordering a time-out; a sit-and-stay exercise will usually do the trick. Only discipline your dogs; let her manage hers. After this first meeting, keep up the momentum by taking the dogs for more walks and to the park together. Of course, it is always wise to proceed with caution before becoming seriously involved. likewise, you should enjoy many casual dog romps in the outdoors before allowing the pets to spend the night together.

Dear Dog Lady, At the beginning of the year, I went to an open house at a new Pilates studio in my neighbourhood. The studio was great and the owner said she could get me into shape in three months if I joined. The prices were really high, so I didn’t jump right in even though I could lose a few inches. The owner said she lived in the neighbourhood and that’s why she opened a studio here. We also talked about dogs. I have a Jack Russell, she has two Bichon Frises. I was excited because I thought the Pilates instructor would know moderndogmagazine.com

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ask dog lady a few things about walking the dog. When I asked her where she takes her dogs, she looked blank. “I let them out in the yard.” She looked kind of sheepish when she said this. I was so surprised. Do you think this should keep me from signing up for a class? —Christa, Vancouver, BC Christa, price, location and quality should be the most important factors for signing on with this new workout studio. While disheartening to learn the instructor doesn’t have the muscle to exercise her dogs, this shouldn’t matter if all of the other pilates prerequisites are in line. you seem to be stretching for an excuse not to stretch.

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and vast knowledge are on full display in this engaging collection that

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Dear Dog Lady, I visited my area animal shelter today and noticed a beautiful one-year-old female Springer Spaniel mix for adoption. She was a stray and she is rooming with another stray with whom she gets along. When I played with her in a private room, she jumped on the glass, whining and barking for the animal shelter attendant. She acknowledged me by jumping on me (not in a vicious way, but for attention; she does give kisses). More than anything else, she seems anxious, hyperactive—fast-paced and panting without relief. I have owned dogs in the past, my first dog for 17 years, my second for 10 years, my third for 15 years. It has been five years since my last dog died. It has been two years since my 22-yearold cat died, and I am ready to adopt another animal(s), probably one or two dogs and a cat or two. I would love it if you could recommend what my thinking should be about whether or not to adopt this darling dog who will definitely need training. Key question: Can anxiety can be trained out of a dog? —Sherry, Boston, MA Sherry, Dog lady is not you. Only you can gauge the chemistry between you and the Springer mix. Dog lady, however, is a compulsive sort. leaping off the cliff, she yells merrily, “Go for it!” Adopting a shelter dog is a wonderful thing. you love dogs. Nay, you love pets. And you’ve been missing a darling for two years now. Why deprive yourself any longer? This dear Springer needs to be sprung. you must have a loving home. you definitely have a kind attitude. Sure, it will be a lot of work. you’ll have to get back into the swing of walking and training. you’ll probably have to purchase a crate and a whole crate-load of liver chunks to bribe, seduce, and befriend your new furry companion. yes, anxiety can be eased from a dog through your own calm and peaceful demeanor. Get a Kong toy from a pet store to give to your Springer when you leave the house. Walk away her blues— and yours too. A year from now, you won’t even remember this angst. Begin the adventure. you know in your heart it will all be worth it. n

Visit askdoglady.com to ask a question or make a comment.

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20+ ideas for summer fun 7

Canoe through Ontario’s Algonquin Park or past Toronto’s

Spend the dog days of summer at Lake Tahoe’s Camp Winnaribbun. Think arfs and crafts, s’mores, tons of caninefocused outdoor activities to enjoy with your four-legged BFF, and likeminded campers to bond with. campw.com

harbourfront with your canine companion for a summer adventure to remember. dogpaddlingadventures.com

p h o To R o SS K o h lM o o S

Celebrate canine companions everywhere on national Take Your Dog To Work Day, June 26. Started ten years ago, the annual TyDTWD celebration promotes pet adoption by spreading the word about what a woofderful thing it is to have a dog. takeyourdog.com

Dust off your Slr, outfit Fido with the pet’s eye View Camera on his collar, and set out to document your day. Then scrapbook the results or, better yet, post them on dogster.com. unclemilton.com

Thinking of an addition to your family? Cruise

Have a blast in the backyard: cool off in a canine pool. onedogonebone.com

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Share your heart and your home:

Road trip! Strap your

foster a dog.

little ankle biter into the lookout for an easybreezy car ride without worry over open windows. snoozerpetproducts.com

provide a shelter dog with a short-term sanctuary, giving them a better chance at adoption while helping to prevent euthanization. spca.com/volunteer/#

Go green and bike to the park with Fido in tow for an eco-friendly

Get down and dirty: exercise

workout. Strap on a dogapproved bike basket or wagon and hit the streets. Check out trails further afield at adventurecycling.org.

the Santa Monica Sunday afternoon farmer’s market, home to Much love

your terrier’s instinctual drive to dig with earth Dog Trials. Check akc.org for eligible breeds and how to get started.

Soak up the sun and surf at

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Animal rescue’s mobile adoptions, to find your perfect match. muchlove.org Not near lA? Cruise petfinder. com to search for a canine soul mate in your geographic area looking for her forever home.

a Cause walks go to the pet Trust at the Ontario Veterinary College for canine cancer research. For dates see pawsforacause.ca.

Make your web-savvy pup a Dogbook profile with the Facebook application for dogs designed to multiply their pack of pals— and provide you with a good excuse to show off your pup online. dogbook.ca

p h o To v i n C En T SA n d o v A l

By Karin Sinkevicius

Ontario and Quebec residents can walk for a canine cause this summer. proceeds from these paws for

Huntington Dog Beach, CA. The mile of pristine pacific coastline is a paradise for dog lovers and their sunlovin’ pooches. dogbeach.org

Take a cue from rover and beat the heat—take an, um, cat nap with your furry friend. you’ll be out of the midday sun, plus napping reduces stress, as does extra cuddle time.

High tail it to Woofstock in

Toronto, ON, June 13 and 14. The groovy festival will kick off your summer of love, canine-style: it’s the world’s largest and most happening outdoor festival for dogs. woofstock.ca

roll like Hollywood hounds and hit LA Dog Works. The doggie lifestyle center is all about enriching the soul, be it in the Zen Den or through retail therapy. ladogworks.com

round up the pack and

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Work on your socialization skills: host a puppy picnic at the dog park. Throw some tofu dogs on the portable BBQ, break out the pupsicles, and catch up on the unleashed gossip while rover romps with his pals.

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sign up with the Canine Freestyle Federation for a list of classes in your area or to check when a demonstration will be held near you. canine-freestyle.org

DIy: recycle old tees by

braiding them into a rope toy that won’t cost a penny and will thus, undoubtedly, be the favourite. Cut into strips, tie one strip around the ends of the rest, braid, then tie it off.

play ultimutt Frisbee! The eco-friendly Zisc disc’s soft design is friendly to sensitive mouths and floats on water if someone misses the toss. westpawdesign.com

Race Shorty in the Wienerschnitzel Wiener

Nationals. The Dachshund racing championships pit the winners from regional qualifying races in a fleetof-feet bid for fastest status. Intrigued? Get the, ahem, low-down in the documentary Wiener Takes All. wienertakesall.com; wienerschnitzel.com/ nationals.php

Take a cruise with your canine. Head

to Chicago where the 2009 Mercury Canine Cruise season kicks off with a June 25 cruise in benefit of the AntiCruelty Society. Or hit the water any summer weekend: their regular canine cruises are scheduled every Sunday from July to September. mercuryskylinecruiseline.com n

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Training Trials?

Ask an Expert

Our Fab Five answer your most pressing training

questions

Ask Jennifer Messer

My Westie, Joey, is reliably housetrained when at home but the minute we go elsewhere—to work, my mom’s, a friends—he lifts his leg. How on earth do I get him to stop marking indoors and embarrassing me? —Red-faced in Redmond

If Joey is sprinkling just droplets of eau de toilette—even after a long piddle outside—then he is indeed urine marking and not just “relieving himself.” Why do dogs mark? What is just stinky bio-waste to us is an odour extravaganza to dogs—fascinating fluid packed with critical information about age, sex, health, and reproductive status. This exchange of personal ID helps canids negotiate relationships and dog traffic, and no priors. reward any outdoor peeing, and carefully define territories: not altogether different from our online profiles, observe Joey’s marking posture—intervening indoors will require fences, and flags. Most dogs have a strong urge to reply by pmail Olympic speed! plant his bed, dish, and some toys inside so it feels to certain odours: a whiff of a female in heat will warrant a squirt homelike. Keep him on leash, and watch him like a hawk. The first in most males, and the smell of any dog urine is a pretty reliable 10 minutes are crucial: occupy him with obedience games: shake a trigger for both sexes. Also, certain smells can prompt marking if paw, fetch, tug—buy time for smells to get old. Intense sniffing is they are associated with stressful situations. Dogs will normally your cue to tie up his pmail neurons before he hits reply. If he tries keep their home or den clean of urine, but habitually mark the to mark shriek “Outside!!!” and rush him outdoors. The more time perimeter regardless of what odours they scout—their way of placspent hanging out, well supervised, the sooner ing a few shingles on the door. this house becomes a second home. Gradually Step 1: Halt the Hormones If Joey still has his Most dogs have ease up on restrictions, and start on the next crown jewels, then the very first step is neutera strong urge to location. Some dogs get quicker and quicker ing. This stops raging testosterone from prodding him on. If intact females are anywhere near the reply by pmail to at becoming “safe” in new places while others always require several visits under close watch. problem places, then stay clear. certain odours. expect him to have more trouble inhibiting himStep 2: Odour Eaters The smell of urine is second self in less homelike buildings, especially those only to a gal in heat for inspiring male dogs to with dog traffic. Be extra vigilant at previous crime scenes. trickle. And any doggie odour can prompt marking. use an enzyIf you can’t beat it, band it For difficult locations where trainmatic cleaner on absorbent surfaces like carpets and couches to ing doesn’t cut it, try managing him with a belly band—a small purge any soaked-in scents. abdominal wrap with a sanitary pad placed inside, at the tip of his Step 3: Train to Refrain If Joey persists without his “boys” or incitwand. It may not stop marking, but at least there is no mess. And, ing odours, you need a solid training program to expand his concept if you place the napkin very discreetly, the other dogs won’t even of “indoors”—where the den is kept clean—beyond just your house. tease him! n The recipe is similar to housetraining, except the risk of an infraction rises with novelty of location and odours, not bladder size— Jennifer Messer is a veterinarian working in Ottawa, Ontario. She has an honours BA in adults always hold a few drops in reserve to mark just the right psychology from McGill University and a DVM from the Ontario Veterinary College, and occasion! is author of The Kinder Puppy Course available at pavski.ca. She is owned by her Pit Choose a house to begin training in that is easy to visit, has no Bull, Charlotte, and her Beagle, Mr. F. Bender. moderndogmagazine.com

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Ask an Expert Ask Delores Wall

My old girl, Tim-Tim, is losing bladder control and I’m wondering if I should train her to use an indoor potty system. Is it too late to teach an old dog new tricks?

—Loves Old Dog in Louisville

Ask Teoti Anderson

I’m worried my dog is overly submissive. She shows her belly to everyone and sometimes even piddles submissively. How can I boost her confidence? —Wet Toes in Walla-Walla

We sure can teach old dogs new tricks! Sometimes it just takes a little longer to get the behaviour you want…but it is well worth the patience and effort to work towards a reasonable goal. An indoor potty system may be the best thing for your dog, but I would also encourage you to take Tim-Tim outside more frequently; this may also include going out in the nighttime. Just keep your shoes by the side of your bed for a quick exit. Also, for physical and mental stimulation, it is good to keep up some type of exercise with her. It’s amazing the many types of indoor potty systems available. Teaching Tim-Tim to use one of these gives you options to go outside or not. If she has other medical issues, say arthritis, she may prefer the indoor option more often. First, though, you need to have Tim-Tim thoroughly examined by your veterinarian to determine what may be causing this problem and how to best assist her. A geriatric exam is usually done for senior dogs. Once you understand what needs to be done to make her more comfortable, it can give you peace of mind that you are doing the very best for her. To train her on the indoor potty, we want her to get used to it and what it is for. If Tim-Tim understands a cue word such as “go potty,” we can use this cue as we walk her onto the indoor toilet. you may have to entice her onto it with a treat. Help her get comfortable with the texture once she steps on it. It is also best to keep the system in one area, because as dogs age, it’s preferable to keep many things the same. Don’t let Tim-Tim have the run of the house and keep her in uncarpeted areas in your home because accidents are bound to happen. At times, she may not even realize she is going to the bathroom. Because we wanted our Shepherd, Asia, to be in our bedroom at night, knowing she tended to pee during her sleep, we just used plastic under soft towels for her bed . remember not to give up on Tim-Tim, especially as she ages. After a lifetime of her faithfulness and funtimes, she deserves your love and support through difficult times. Continue to enjoy, love, laugh, and praise your old girl. n

Some dogs are more submissive than others. rest assured, it may have nothing to do with you. Cally’s parents could have been submissive dogs and she is taking after mom or dad. Something could have happened before she joined your family. We may never know, but we can address it now and help boost Cally’s confidence. When a dog piddles upon greeting people, this is a canine sign of respect. Cally is acknowledging that your guests outrank her, and she is showing deference to them. Of course, human interpretation is completely different! So the more agitated you or your guests get, or if you scold her, she will think she hasn’t done a very good job of paying respect. She’ll think she has to try harder, and therefore pee more. Instead, ask guests to completely ignore Cally for the first 15 minutes of their visits. They should not talk to her or make eye contact. When the initial excitement of their arrival has passed, they should seat themselves on the floor and let her approach them. Without making eye contact, they can gently scratch her chest. They should not pet her on top of the head. In canine language, that is a very assertive gesture and will likely get her waterworks going again. your guests should talk sweetly to her, but they should not make a big fuss. Make greetings very laid back and casual. Cally may still roll over and show her belly, but that’s okay. She’ll get a belly rub! everyone may be tempted to shower her with attention, but that is too much for Cally to bear. Giving her a chance to get accustomed to low-key greetings will help boost her confidence around your guests. I also recommend you enroll her in a local reward-based training class. learning new skills will give her confidence. Once she gets the basics down, consider enrolling her in agility training. Shy dogs can really blossom as they learn they can tackle obstacles and have fun doing it. It can be embarrassing when your dog practically crumbles at the sight of someone new, but dogs like these are usually very sweet and loving. They just need help building a foundation of security so they can accept attention with confidence! n

Delores Wall, CPDT, behaviour specialist, trainer, mentor, founder of DogSmart Training Inc. and Trainer Apprenticeship Programs (www.dogsmart.ca), Vancouver, Canada, is a devoted advocate of training through positive methods for reliable results.

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.

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Ask an Expert Ask Ian Dunbar

I’ve tried everything, but Zoe, my Husky/ Chow cross, continues to pull like a maniac when walking on leash. Please help! —Dragged in Dallas

Well, the Husky half of Zoe is fulfilling her destiny. For years, Huskies have been bred and trained to pull. So, to be fair to Zoe, I would play some pulling games, which, strangely enough, will facilitate teaching her not to pull on leash. put on some running shoes, put Zoe on leash, tell her, “Zoe, Mush” and off you both go. praise her enthusiastically as she pulls you along and then, after 25 metres, say, “Zoe, Steady… steady…. Zoe, sit!” and stop and stand still and wait for her to sit and look up at you. praise her for sitting and paying attention and then tell her to pull again. repeat this sequence over and over until Zoe promptly slows down and sits when requested. pulling on leash, which was once an uncontrollable problem that worked against training, may now be used as an effective reward for training Zoe to slow down (“Steady”) and sit and pay attention. Now it’s time to teach Zoe to walk calmly on a loose leash. The first step is to make sure that Zoe wants to walk by your side without the restraint of a leash. Once Zoe has developed a strong centripetal attraction towards you and wants to follow, leash-walking will be a breeze. First practice indoors. Set up a course and have Zoe follow you around tables, zigzagging between chairs, upstairs, downstairs, in and out of different rooms, and maybe outside and around the garden. Check out http://www.dogstardaily.com/videos/following-course-home To make things easier for the first couple of days, carry Zoe’s food bowl and periodically hand feed her kibble as she follows you all around the house and garden. Today, Zoe eats on the move. After a week of in-the-house following, practice Zoe’s dinner-time exercise in other fenced (safe) areas, such as, other people’s back yards, tennis courts, and dog parks. Additionally, when walking Zoe on-leash, actively encourage her to walk by your side and periodically praise and reward her when she does so. Make sure that you repeatedly change your pace and that you stop frequently. Say “Steady” (which she has already learned) and slow down, and then say, “Quickly” and speed up. Alternate “Steady” and “Quickly” as you walk. If you walk at the same pace, Zoe will be more likely to pull. Also, make sure to have frequent stops to have Zoe sit and refocus on you. If you walk without frequent stops, Zoe will most definitely pull on leash. remember, every time that you stop, you may use “let’s Go” as a reward for sitting and paying attention. n 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.

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Ask an Expert Ask Nicole Wilde

My rescued Toy Poodle, Sally, drags behind me on walks. She’s only six and runs around in the house, so it’s not a mobility issue. What’s up with her lagging behind?

—Brisk in Brooklyn

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Without having more information, it’s hard to say definitively, but gazing into my canine crystal ball (or was that a tennis ball left behind by one of the dogs?), I see your sweet Sally being a bit uncertain in the great outdoors. It may be that her former owners, like so many owners of tiny dogs, didn’t see the need to take her for walks. (Heck, some owners of teenytiny dogs don’t even see the need to ever put them on the ground!) So it’s possible that Sally never became accustomed to the sounds, smells, and sights of the outdoors, or even other dogs and people. your goal should be to assure Sally that walking around your neighbourhood is a safe, fun activity. The attitude you project should be carefree. No worried-sounding “reassuring” such as, “It’s okay, come on, nothing’s going to hurt you.” rather, strive for an upbeat tone: “This is fun! We love walks! Ooh, just look at that handsome Bulldog!” No tugging on the leash, either. Dogs have an oppositional reflex, so if you pull or push them, they will automatically resist the pressure; it’s what keeps them upright. (That reflex is also the reason so many puppies “put on the brakes” when a collar and leash are used for the first time.) Coax Sally along with your cheerful voice and body language, and any time she does walk by your side, no matter how briefly, reward her with a special, superyummy treat that she doesn’t get at any other time. Assuming Sally is dog-friendly, another thing that can help is to have a friend with an outgoing, confident dog come along on your walks. By example, Sally will soon see that there really is nothing to be worried about. you can also incorporate activities she enjoys. For example, being a Toy poodle, Sally is surely incredibly smart; so stop periodically on walks to ask her to do some obedience behaviours or tricks that you’ve taught. If she enjoys playing tug or another other game, make that part of your walks, too. Above all, be patient. Sally has most likely had six years of not feeling secure outdoors. As she bonds with you, learns to trust in your guidance, and becomes more accustomed to her outdoor environment, your walks will go from lagging to lovely. n

20 07 W I N N

Nicole Wilde is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer who teaches seminars worldwide on canine behaviour topics. She is on the faculty and advisory board of the Companion Animal Sciences Institute, and is the author of eight canine-related books, including Help for Your Fearful Dog and So You Want to be a Dog Trainer (phantompub.com). To submit a training question, email training@moderndogmagazine.com.

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Is your dog an alcoholic? Does your dog bark at everything? Are you having house training troubles? Does your dog have no friends?

Get your paws on some delicious smokehouse dog treats (p. 49) or an Eco Nap bed (p. 54) by going to www.moderndogmagazine.com/ giveaways. If you’re still in the mood for more great stuff, head to www.moderndogmagazine.com/ shopping to check out sweet deals and free stuff especially for Modern Dog readers! Don’t delay, get online today!

Got a Picture Perfect Pooch? Upload your favorite pics and enter into our new online photo contest! Top voted dogs will have a chance to be Dog of the Week, win prizes, and appear in the next issue of Modern Dog. Go to www.modern dogmagazine.com/photocontest to enter!

Match the dog with the fact! 1. Greyhound

2. Boston Terrier

A. The greatest all-around dog ever produced b. Essentially a couch potato

4. Pekingese

C. Courageous to the point of being ridiculous d. intelligent, well-mannered, alert, and rambunctious Answers: 1B, 2D, 3A, 4C

3. German Shorthaired Pointer

(clockwise from top left) Previous photocontest winners: Winston, Bay, Max

PLUS! GET A dAily doSE oF

doG in youR inbox!

WIN FREE STUFF!

“Bath-time Bliss” Giveaway from page 49. Ten readers will win a Coconut Papaya Shampoo & Conditioner-in-one from Aroma Paws.

“Lip Smackin’ Luv” Giveaway from page 49. Ten readers will win a three-pack of treats from Bit O’Luv. “Eco Chic Sleep” Giveaway from page 54. Five readers will win an “Eco Nap” from West Paw Design. “Peace Pooch” Giveaway from page 61. Six readers will win a “Paws for Peace” tote from It’s a Dog’s Life. “Rope-n-Go” Giveaway from page 71. Five readers will win a Rope-N-Go harness in size small.

“Doggie-licious Delights” Giveaway from page 71. Eighteen readers will win a treat pack from Yummy Chummies by Arctic Paws. “A Personal Potty for Poochie” Giveaway from page 90. Five readers will win a Pup-Head Portable Dog Potty. “Canine Compost” Giveaway from page 95. Twenty readers will win a box of Natur-Ware 100% Biodegradable Pet Waste Bags from Northern Technologies.

“Easy come, easy go!” Giveaway from page 108. One reader will win a Sport Wheel Pet Carrier from Sherpa. TO ENTER: For the giveaways listed above, log on to moderndogmagazine.com and click on “Giveaways” or send a postcard with your name, address, age, email address, and daytime phone number to “Eco Chic Sleep,” “Lip Smackin’ Luv,” “Rope-n-Go,” “Bath-time Bliss,” “Peace Pooch,” “Doggie-licious Delights,” “Canine Compost,” “Easy come, easy go!” or “A Personal Potty for Poochie,” Modern Dog, 202–343 Railway St, vancouver, BC CANADA v6A 1A4, by May 31, 2009. Winners will be notified by September 30, 2009. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contests are open to legal Canadian and US residents 18 and older as of date of entry. The decisions of the judges are final. Prizes are not transferable to any other person and may not be substituted for any other prize. The odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. The selection of the reviewed items for giveaways is based solely on the discretion of the editors. Income and other taxes, if any, are the sole responsibility of the winner(s). The approximate retail values of the prizes are: Eco Chic Sleep – USD 59.90; Lip Smackin’ Luv – USD 15; Harness up Hound – USD 23.95; Bathe in Bliss – USD 14.99; Peace Pooch – USD 25; Doggie-licious Delights – USD 42; Canine Compost – USD 5.99; Easy come, easy go! – USD 128; A Personal Potty for Pooch – USD 150. Subject to all national and provincial/ federal and state, and local laws and regulations. Void in Puerto Rico, and where prohibited. All entries become the property of Modern Dog Inc. and will not be acknowledged or returned. Winners may be required to sign an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability/Publicity release, which may be returned within 30 days from notification, or an alternate winner may be chosen. Acceptance of a prize constitutes consent to use a winner’s name and likeness for editorial, advertising, and publicity purposes without further compensation, except where prohibited. For the names of the winners, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to “Modern Dog Contests” at the address listed above after September 30, 2009.

ridiculously hot-looking animal-lover of the 100% human variety, meet ridiculously hot-looking animal-lover of the 100% cotton variety. Introducing TheFleasKnees tees.

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 surrendered dogs deserve “forever homes” regardless of age, breed, or lineage. If you are a member of a rescue organization and would like more information on how Modern Dog can help you raise much-needed funds, please email donations@moderndogmagazine.com.

Ridiculously hot-looking, 100% pima cotton, individually hand-screenprinted, ass-kickingly-awesome tees made – and worn – in support of no-kill animal rescue. And in support of being ridiculously hot-looking.

theﬂeaskneestees.com moderndogmagazine.com

133

Travel Diary

The Phu Quoc Dogs of Vietnam By Elizabeth Gardiner Photos by Carolyn Howse

Dogs do not play the same role in the rest of the world as they do here in North America. In some cultures, they are considered dirty animals, in some, they are trained for the sole purpose of being guard dogs, and in yet others, they are food. I have to admit, it was my irrational and somewhat ignorant fear that, on my trip to Vietnam, I would come across puppies in the market, designated as lunch or as the daily special on my dinner menu. In my own defense, prior to departure, I did read far too many blogs and travel sites detailing such practice and, though this sad reality can be encountered, it is not the whole truth. What I found was quite the opposite. As I made my way south of Ho Chi Minh City into the Mekong Delta and on to phu Quoc, an island situated between Vietnam and Cambodia on the Bay of Thailand, I found happy, wagging dogs all over. I particularly fell in love with the phu Quoc dogs, named for the island. The phu Quoc dogs sport a patch of hair on their rump that grows in the opposite direction of the rest of their coat, a curly tail, and a blue tongue. These dogs are known for their avid hunting skills, skills that are perhaps too honed as there’s little wildlife left on this small island. They are one of the rarest breeds on earth, and one of just three ridge-backed breeds in the world. But on the island, these cute dogs are everywhere; on the beach as you sunbathe, in restaurants during lunch, and on the streets as you drive by. I think my favourite part was how free the dogs are. There are no leashes, no collars, no fences or gates; the dogs just hang out. I even caught one dog owner “bathing” his dog by repeatedly throwing him into the ocean, a move apparently good for banishing fleas. The dog didn’t seem to mind. These funny-looking beach dogs have a pretty sweet life. n

134 moderndog

summer 2009

On the Road Again Feel THe WIND IN yOur Fur AND WATCH THe lAND uNFOlD BeNeATH yOur pAWS. By Jessica Nosek

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1 Power up. Get some quick food energy while on the go. Bow Wow Power Bar, endlesspawsibilities.ca 2 Don’t forget the keys! A tick removal device is a must for every bush-whacking dog. Tick Key, thetickkey.com 3 Are we there yet? Temper bored canine travelers with food and drink—in the car! To Go Bowl, furrytravelers.com 4 Bathroom break. Savvy travelers are always prepared. Dog-waste-bag carrier, 4U2reUse.com 5 Road Kill. Let Rover answer the call of the wild. Foxtail and rubber squeaky toy, mydogbrand.com 6 Daily dose. Being on the road shouldn’t compromise your dog’s health. Supplements for your dog’s diet in handy one-day-supply packs, greendognaturals.com 7 Maxin’ and relaxin.’ Calm down a jazzed up dog. Sleepytime Tonic, happytailsspa.com 8 Reclaim some territory. For those who like to make their “mark” in this world (Or car. Or hotel room.), this band prevents embarrassment and the necessity for cleaning supplies. Belly band, oscarnewman.com 9 Best paw forward. Make a good impression on the new friends you meet. Dry Dog spray on bath replacement, happytailsspa.com bl On the radar. Keep all important info, including interim travel contacts, right on your dog. Waterproof USB dog tag, dawg-e-data.com bm Quiet in the back seat! Maintain your sanity (and hearing). Citronella spray anti-barking collar, innotek. com bn No hitchhikers. 100 percent organic essential oils help keep pests away. Flea and Tick concentrate, k9granolafactory.com bo Back packing. Let Woofer carry his own weight. Gypsy backpack, wagn4u.com bp High and dry. Impromptu swim? Excess sweat? Dry off in a jiffy. Moisture wicking towel, discoverytrekking.com bq Have bowl, will travel. Collapsible water and food dishes can clip to your pack for spur of the moment exploration, dexas.com br We’re Here! Show everyone you’ve arrived with cute reflective tags. Firefly reflectors, firefly-ny.com

136 moderndog

summer 2009

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