Find Your Breed Match! Is the Ridgeback, Shiba Inu, Bichon Frise or a giant breed the dog for you?
The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions S U M MER 2017
THE ONE PERSON DOG:
IT! N I W VING I G E WE'R Y COOL AWA GEAR DOG 4
Normal or obsessive?
p2
Does Your Dog Need A Friend?
Stars & Their Dogs
WHY YOU SHOULD BABY-TALK TO YOUR DOG
The Best Toys & Treats
moderndogmagazine.com DISPLAY UNTIL SEPT ‘17
p60
p46
p92
p96
$5.95
“Ice Cream” For Dogs
Giant Breeds!
Adopt These Dogs!
Make a Flower Crown
Canine Cannabis. If your dog suffers from pain, inflammation or cancer, CBD therapy could help!
NO 2
photo tanya king
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VOL 16
eddie submitted by sue chipperton
SUMMER 2017
FEATURES 28
The One Person Dog Does your dog only have eyes for you? What’s healthy behaviour—and what’s not—when it comes to the one-person dog.
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Chances Are You Baby Talk To Your Dog—But Does He Care? Dog-speak. We all do it, but a new study shows there’s actually good reason to baby talk to your dog. (Take that, eye-rollers!) BY STANLEY COREN
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BY TEOTI ANDERSON
60 BREED PROFILE 26
Find Your Perfect Breed Match! Is the Shiba Inu or the Bichon Frise the dog for you?
A Bond Like No Other Deborah Groenheyde's vision of a powerful dream-image was the inspiration behind her successful business. BY J. LESLIE JOHNSON
46
The 14 Largest Dog Breeds Is bigger better? Where dogs are concerned, for some people the answer is a resounding yes. Get to know the 14 largest dog breeds.
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How To Tame a Fox—And Build a Dog The amazing true story of how a pair of scientists condensed the domestication process by thousands of years and made foxes every bit as loyal and tame as dogs.
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The Rhodesian Ridgeback A rather remarkable hound. BY KELLY
BY LEE DUGATKIN AND LYUDMILA TRUT
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The Dog That Changed Everything For this family struggling to take care of two little boys with autism, support dog Roman was the unexpected answer to a prayer.
66
Goodbye Yellow Spots, Hello Lustrous Lawn!; Bath-Time Make Easy; Ayurveda For Dogs
68
Dog Gear For Good
64
Save a Life, Foster a Dog! A new site makes it easy to connect with shelters and rescue groups to foster a dog in need.
70
How To Remove a Tick In 5 Steps; Does Your Dog Have Fleas
72
Create Change: These Dog Toys Give Back!
82
Canine Cannabis Is CBD therapy right for your pooch?
74
Raptor Shield; Happy Joints; The Fun and Easy Way to Exercise Super-Energetic Dogs
112
Does My Dog Need A Friend? How to determine if your dog wants a live-in canine friend. BY NICOLE WILDE
76
The Find; How To Groom Your Dog For Summer Comfort; Modern Dog Poll Results
78
Should You Be Worried About Worms? Dr. Mike Paul gives us the lowdown on roundworms.
CALDWELL
BODY & SOUL
BY ROSE FROSEK
BY DARCY MATHESON
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PHOTO SARA WENOKUR
KEIKO SUBMITTED BY COURTNEY BARR
96
98 THE GOODS
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We’re Giving It Away! We’ve got three whole months of awesome giveaways, from a pet cam to delish dog treats, and winners every week! See what’s up for grabs on page 24!
30
Summer Fun These super, Modern Dog-approved finds will help you make the very most of the dog days of summer!
36
Stars, They’re Just Like Us! Candid snaps of celebs out and about with their pups.
58
Doggy Décor Our current obsessions and must-haves for the dog-inclusive home.
52
Hiking With Your Dog Tips and gear to help you make the most of the great outdoors! BY ELISABETH FILLMORE
60
DIY Eat: “Ice Cream” For Dogs Make your dogs a healthy frozen treat in a snap!
86
Go Glamping With Your Dog! Every single gorgeous vacation property listed on this site will welcome your dog.
88
Pure Passion A chance encounter and two enthusiastic dogs led Guillermo Goni on an unexpected career path.
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Open Your Heart, Change a Life Want more love in your life? Adopt one of these dogs and Best Friends will fly them to you for free!
96
DIY Craft: How to Make a Flower Crown For Your Dog Create the ultimate photo op for a lasting memory that will make you smile. BY ROSE FROSEK
104
Dog Trick Teach your dog to wink in four easy steps.
107
Connie’s Book Club Pack these great reads in your beach bag!
114
Don’t Choke Me! Four myths about the prong collar.
120
Last Lick: Pool Party!
98 Splash! Essential summer gear for water-loving dogs and their people. 110
Look What We Found! Nifty finds for dogs and the people who love them.
LIVING 12
Water Babies! Put a smile on your face with these dogs that love nothing more than getting wet!
REGULAR FEATURES 6 Editor’s Letter 8 Contributors 10 Stuff We Love 14 The Scoop 22 Smile! Photo Contest 117 Marketplace
ON THE COVER
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Meet our cover dog! Maggie is a hound mix, lives in New York City, and her favourite thing is long walks in Central Park! A rescue from the South, this wonderful, loving dog was adopted two years ago by Joe and Meredith Strauss and their now seven-year-old daughter Felicity. They haven't looked back since! #RescueRules Photographed by Joe Strauss
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SUMMER 2017
BY J. LESLIE JOHNSON
BY POOJA MENON
In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 16, 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.
CONNIE WILSON WITH PENNY, PHOTO KHAREN HILL
EDITOR'S LETTER
OUR R E ADE R S WR IT E
Pot for Pets: None of the High, All of the Pain Relief
Wishing you a fantastic summer!
—Kristen Kuhns
>> moderndogmagazine.com/potforpets
Camp Canine “Great experience at Camp DogWood. Violet and I tried eight dog sports in twoand-a-half days and found her “furever” sport, nosework!”—Marcy Seavey “I need to add this to my bucket list!” —Mary Zelli
>> moderndogmagazine.com/campcanine Much Love,
Lisa Vanderpump Totally Rules “What a wonderful cause!!! Hopefully it's televised so we can watch from TEXAS!” —Julius King of the Castle
Connie Wilson, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
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SUMMER 2017
>> moderndogmagazine.com/lisavanderpump
PHOTOGRAPHED BY RENNY MILLS PHOTOGRAPHY
E
ach season holds its charms but summer! Who can argue with days at the beach, long, late dinners, and balmy evenings? In the Pacific Northwest where I live, summer afternoons are looked forward to and longed for through the many rainy months that precede them. So let’s waste no time—let’s get out there and enjoy the dog days of summer! This issue is your perfect beach read and guide to the season. We’ve jam-packed it with everything from great summer gear to training tips and tricks, the best beds, toys, and collars, and even an “ice cream” recipe for dogs! Articles like “The One Person Dog” (exploring what’s normal and what’s obsessive behaviour) and “Does Your Dog Need A Friend?” offer expert advice so you can better understand your dog and improve your bond. We have cool dog gear up for grabs (win it on p 24!), breed profiles (Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback, Shiba Inu or Bichon Frise right for you?), and a terrific article on Canine Cannabis. If your dog suffers from pain, inflammation, anxiety, cancer, or a host of other ailments, CBD therapy could transform your dog’s life (p 82). Plus, Stan Coren shares a fascinating article that vindicates all of us who baby talk to our dogs. A new study shows there’s good reason to! (p 32). And perhaps most fun of all, we’ve featured a selection of adoptable dogs that Best Friends will fly to you for FREE if it’s a love match! Check out these cuties in search of their forever homes on page 92. We’ve also got cute dog photos galore, candid snaps of stars and their dogs, inspiring entrepreneur profiles, and so much more! Here’s hoping this issue puts a smile on your face!
“THANK YOU for covering this. I inherited a large, older dog with hip issues. He has other medical problems that prevented him from being on some of the stronger meds. CBD treats and peanut butter have made him a different dog. I am so glad my knowledgeable friend tuned me onto this because it's turned his life around.”
C ON TRIBUT OR S SUMMER 2017
As the author of the book Greening Your Pet Care, Vancouver TV producer Darcy Matheson is all about discovering ways to make caring for your dog a little more eco-friendly. She’s also a proud dog mama to two terriers, Seymour and Murphy Brown, so has plenty of opportunity to put her findings into practice. In this issue, she explores why dog people are increasingly turning to cannabis as a natural way to treat pain, inflammation, and anxiety in their four-legged loved ones. Many swear by the results. Turn to page 82 to read this fascinating article.
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VOL 16
NO 2
Publisher
Modern Dog Inc. Editor-in-Chief
Connie Wilson Editor & Creative Director
Jennifer Nosek Social Media & Events Coordinator, Subscription Services
Nav Nagra Design & Production
Clara To Sales & Marketing
Julia Pineda, Mariah Stanley Manager, Accounting Services
Celine Benipayo Copywriter & Administrative Assistant
Laura Dennis Subscriptions & Social Media Assistant
Eleanor Munk Controller
Cecilia de Roca Chan, CPA, CGA
This issue marks the talented illustrator Martha Pluto's first contribution to Modern Dog! Martha is a quirky and outgoing Toronto-based illustrator. She experiments with different traditional mediums and bases her work heavily on lines, shapes, and space. Her favourite colours to use in her work are reds and blues. When Martha isn’t creating artwork, she cares for her plants and dreams about the day she can rescue a Bull Terrier and/ or help foster animals so they can find their forever homes. Check out Martha’s awesome illustrations for "Chances Are You Baby Talk to Your Dog—But Does He Care?" on page 33 .
Honourary Editor-at-Large
Jytte Wilson
GET YOURSELF A SUBSCRIPTION! Give us a call at 1-800-417-6289 or subscribe online at moderndogmagazine.com/subscribe Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 In Canada: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 16, 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 16, 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
Kelly Caldwell is a regular contributor to Modern Dog and the former Editor-in-Chief and Art Director of Dogs in Canada magazine. She’s many things—a mother, an entrepreneur, a writer, and a photographer. But Kelly is also a dog lover and a passionate advocate for animal welfare. She lives in Guelph, ON with her partner, their daughter, and two Boston Terriers, Dottie and Henry, who pretty much run the joint. Check out Kelly’s breed profile on the wonderful Rhodesian Ridgeback on page 100!
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(604) 734-3131 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3131 (604) 734-3031 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3031
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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 2017 by Modern Dog Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means, electronic or mechanical, including the Internet or photocopying without the written permission of the Publisher. Modern Dog and its logotype are the trademarks of Modern Dog Inc. Modern Dog is published four times a year. One-year subscription prices: Canada $16CAD, U.S.A. $16USD, foreign $45USD. Subscription orders and customer service inquiries should be sent to Modern Dog Subscription Services, Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4
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STUFF WE LOVE Modern Dog staffers’ picks of the litter 1 My shepherd Maverick barely tolerates being groomed using conventional methods so I gave the HandsOn Gloves a try. He loved the massage! The patented gloves removed hair and dander for a healthy, shiny coat and kept him calm, turning grooming into bonding. Find it in stores from Hollywood Feed to Ace Hardware, online from Dog.com to Chewy.com, and it will soon be seen on QVC!—Mariah ($25, handsongloves.com) 2 Is your dog a bundle of nerves? The new CALMZ Anxiety Relief System is a vest that emits a therapeutic combination of music, tones, and vibrations over acupressure points to soothe fear, anxiety, and stress. Check out the testimonials and you’ll definitely want to try this on your anxious dog. The only question is, do they make these for people? — Jennifer ($130, calmz.com) 3 As a picky Dachshund, I love it when my mom elevates my regular dog food from ordinary to extraordinary with chicken Broth Bowls from Fruitables. A splash of this healthy broth adds both flavour and hydration to my everyday diet. I give it four paws up!—Penny the Wirehaired Dachshund ($15 for two, fruitablespetfood.com) 4 Don’t let unexpected stains ruin your day! Goodwinol’s Out Dam Spot (& Farewell Smell) pet stain and odour remover gets the job done so you can get back to having fun in the sun! It’s chemically engineered to effectively remove all sorts of pet stains and smells from carpets, clothing, and upholstery.—Celine ($9, goodwinol.com)
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5 With the arrival of my white fluff ball of a puppy, getting rid of pet hair from pretty much everything I own had become a full-time job. Then I discovered Fur-Zoff. All it takes is a light sweeping motion and Fur-Zoff's unique texture effortlessly removes hair from clothing, upholstery—you name it. While it isn’t flashy, this unassuming product works! It has a 100% lifetime guarantee and—bonus—is made of 90% post-consumer recycled materials.—Clara ($13, furzoff.net) 6 While my big Boxer boy Duke José is a total sweetheart, not every dog is. It has happened that other dogs have become aggressive towards him when we’re out and about and it’s terrifying. In the event of a dog fight, non-toxic Bodyguard protective dog repellent spray stops dog attacks in their tracks so we can keep exploring and socializing with confidence.—Julia ($16, bodyguarddog.ca) 7 Give your pup a classic look with this combo of finely crafted leatherwork and beautiful ribbon. Auburn Leathercrafters’ gorgeous, handcrafted collars and leashes use durable yet stylish materials like leather and brass to make a long-lasting product to enjoy for years to come.—Laura (Collar from $35, leash from $36, collarsandmore.com)
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8 Having been through age-related mobility issues with my Kaya girl, I can tell you GingerLead is a godsend. When stairs, getting up, or getting into a vehicle become difficult for your dog, GingerLead’s patented, top quality lifting aid gives extra support to your senior, disabled or recovering dog to help with balance, mobility, and dignity. —Connie ($60, gingerlead.com) 9 Make sure your dog isn’t one of the estimated 1.2 million that are stuck by vehicles each year; ensure your dog is seen in all conditions, whether dark, rain, sleet or snow, with a SmartPup collar from Pup IQ. Utilizing a special prismatic material, these durable, waterproof collars and leashes offer the highest standard of reflectivity so you know that you and your dog will stay visible and safe.—Nav (Collar, $35; leash, $40, pup-iq.com)
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10 I will do anything for VitaLife’s one ingredient Duck Tenders —even sneeze on command (my best, crowd-pleasing trick)! While I’m in it for the freshly baked taste, my mom loves that there are no by-products, wheat, corn, soy, or artificial colours and flavours. Bring on the Tenders!—Esther the Miniature Dachshund (From $11, vitalifemadewithlove.com) 11 We all know to slap on the sunscreen before heading outdoors but did you know that dogs can get skin cancer too? Help limit sun exposure with a Cooling Sun Tee with built in UPF 50+ sun protection from Louie de Coton. The lightweight, quick-dry fabric will not restrict your pup so they can keep having fun in the sun!—Eleanor ($36, louiedecoton.com)
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^
Abel
WATER BABIES
! w w w A Snoopy
Bitty
Sampson Xxxx Briar
Let's play! Kalli
Eddie
Bear
Briar is very...uh... expressive.—Amelia Murray
Pfluger
For a behind-the-scenes look at what we’re up to in the MD offices, the latest breaking stories and videos, cool contests, events, & exclusive giveaways, become a fan of Modern Dog on Facebook & follow us on Twitter, Instagram, & Pinterest. Go to facebook.com/moderndogmag, twitter.com/moderndogmag, instagram.com/moderndogmag & pinterest.com/moderndogmag.
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THE SCOOP TV Shows Designed For Dogs A Q&A with the guy who invented DOGTV, a channel offering 24-hour television created especially for dogs!
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tay-at-home dogs around the world are being entertained by television programming designed especially to appeal to canines. The idea for TV programming for pets came to founder Ron Levi back in 2007 when he used to leave his cat, Charlie, home alone every day. Charlie seemed unhappy about it and Ron thought, I'm not here all day, but the TV set is! He downloaded some content from the Internet—fish, birds, etc.— and Charlie immediately reacted to it. Ron then learned that for years people have been leaving on TVs for their pets (57 percent in the US!) and that it's recommended by organizations like the Humane Society and ASPCA. “So the idea was,” Ron shares, “what if we created a channel in which all programs were designed specifically for dogs and the way they perceive the world?” Fast-forward 10 years and Ron’s channel for dogs, DOGTV, is now available in more than 120 million households in 14 countries across the globe. They offer three kinds of programming especially for stay-at-home dogs: Relaxation, which is content that is designed to relax your dog, reduce stress levels, and keep your dog calm with soothing music, sounds, and visuals; Stimulation, which is content that includes active camera movements, animations, moving objects, and lots of dogs to encourage your dog's playfulness when home alone; and Exposure, which is science-based programming involving special sounds and visuals to desensitize dogs to stimuli and situations that dogs are often afraid of, such as fireworks, thunder storms or doorbells. We asked Ron some questions about his fascinating programming for dogs.
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Is DOG TV right for your dog? Read on to find out! How do you create a show to appeal to dogs? What are the differences from regular for-people TV? Although we know that many pets watch regular TV, like National Geographic or other channels, these channels weren’t designed for pets—they were designed for people. Dogs won’t enjoy hearing people talking, or loud commercial breaks, or seeing scary crocodiles, or news reports. DOGTV’s content is 100 percent designed for dogs, with no scary elements, no commercials, no visuals that they won’t enjoy seeing. It’s 100 percent tailor-made for dogs. For example: • Dogs see the world in different colours than we do. They only have two colour receptors, so they don’t see red or green. They see mainly blue, yellow, black, white, and shades of grey. DOGTV colours the content and does colour separation, putting emphasis on certain colours to help the dog see the visual image better. • The content is shot in a way that will help the dog relate to the visual content—cinematographers are filming from a dog’s point of view (they are on their knees); they shoot many times from a dog’s point of view, including installing a GoPro cam on the dog; they are taking in account backgrounds and locations, so the dog will see the image better; the objects are larger, due to the dog’s poor visual acuity; and so forth. The magic is mainly happening in the editing room, with the right colouring and editing, sound design, and music that was designed for dogs.
THE SCOOP TV For Dogs What visual, emotional, and auditory content do dogs find appealing? Dogs love seeing other dogs and other animals on screen. We learned that from an Oxford University study and from our sevenplus years experience with this channel. We film lots of dogs running around, playing, fetching, swimming, sniffing, and having a good time. As dogs are very sensitive to motion, we love showing dogs rapidly moving objects and animations on the channel, as well as kids playing and adults running with their dogs. DOGTV’s soundtrack includes a rich sound design—so the home alone dog can identify and taste the outside world although he’s at home—as well as positive affirmations (kids saying “good dog,” “don’t be afraid,” and more), as well as sound frequencies (healing tones to relax dogs) and relaxing music—psychoacoustic music to help dogs feel more calm and relaxed. In our study, 72 percent of dogs felt very sleepy and relaxed by this soothing music.
How did you determine what content dogs like? Did you have a test group of dogs to gauge their response? After we studied dogs for three years (2009-2012), we created the first content and tested it on dogs. We wanted to see what they react to the most, what they enjoy the most. It wasn't enough for us to learn from others' work. With top pet experts on board, like Professor Nicholas Dodman, we wanted to do our own research and learn from our own observations. Thus, Professor Dodman and his team at Tufts University have conducted large-scale research in which 38 dogs were monitored in apartments in L.A. and New York for six hours, home alone and filmed by five security cameras, with DOGTV on as well as other channels like CNN, Animal Planet, and no TV. We learned a lot from this research and observation. Dogs react most to content that was designed for them: dogs do relax with the right music, sounds, and visuals; dogs don't enjoy cats, loud noises, barking sounds, and so on. We’re still learning a lot from viewing thousands of videos of dogs watching DOGTV on YouTube and Instagram—it’s great to learn what dogs react to the most!
Do all dogs enjoy DOGTV? From our study we now know that dogs show much more interest in DOGTV than in regular TV. Having said that, not all dogs are the same, and not all dogs react the same to visual content on TV. We saw some dogs who weren’t too happy with
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seeing other dogs in “their house” on TV, and thus we do not recommend DOGTV to dogs who will bark all day or get irritated by the channel. The majority of dogs we saw, however, were happy and more relaxed by the channel.
What is the “Noise Phobia” program? Many dogs suffer from various anxieties from different kinds of stimuli. Dogs can get terrified by an ambulance passing by, or construction works, or a vacuum cleaner. Our Noise Phobia programs are a great opportunity for a dog to get exposed to these sounds but in a positive and safe way, with soft music, positive affirmations (“Don’t worry, dog, it’s just a vacuum cleaner.”), and relaxing sounds. We believe that a dog who is exposed to these sounds in a positive way will learn to be less stressed and more confident over time (as shown in a study on sound and dogs from Bristol University). Also, DOGTV’s sound and music can mask the outside noises for the dog, which is another advantage of leaving on TV or radio.
How long do most dogs stay interested for? How long is the average program? Dogs have a very short attention span, which is why DOGTV’s programs are two to five minutes long. [A series of videos within a category, say Relaxation, play for an hour before switching to a new category type.] We’re trying to create the best tool to enrich their environment when home alone, so a dog can positively benefit from DOGTV even if he’s passively watching or listening to the sound. We're also hearing feedback from people who subscribed for themselves or for their cats. One even subscribed for her parrot to watch!
Anything you’d like to add? We're working hard to offer DOGTV to every home-alone dog around the globe. Even if we're not yet available with your cable provider, you can always check us out online at dogtv.com or on your favourite connected device with DOGTV Anywhere. Just enter code "Moderndog" for a free month! n
DOGTV is currently available on DIRECTV, RCN, Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon FireTV, Roku, and as an iOS and Android app. And dogs who live in a Comcast household are in luck–DOGTV recently launched their first-ever video-on-demand (VOD) channel with Xfinity by Comcast. Xfinity TV customers can subscribe to the DOGTV VOD channel for $4.99 per month and have access to 24-hour, pup-approved television for stay-at-home dogs.
THE SCOOP
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apture memories in the making, from puppy-chewed shoes to summer days at the dog park, with Bella & Beau’s beautiful beads and charms.
This cool collection lets both you and your dog collect and wear your favourite charms, stringing them on either a collar or a bracelet. Each leather collar—available in black, pink or Bella & Beau blue (a shade reminiscent of Tiffany blue)—includes a securely fastened built-in snake chain to hold the charms. And you can wear your shared memories too, stacking, mixing, and matching charms on the bracelet to coordinate with your dog’s collar.
love it!
It’s a Charmed Life This cool collection lets both you and your dog collect and wear your favourite charms!
From “rescue” and “best friend” charms to Swarovski-studded dog bones and fire hydrants, there’s a charm for nearly every event and activity. Choose from over 200 silver, colourful enamel, and sparkly Swarovski crystal beads and charms. Start with hand-polished letters to spell your best friend’s name then add a new charm for each special occasion, connection or milestone that you share with your dog. As your story grows, so can your collection! It’s a charmed life, to be sure. Check it out at bellabeau.net.
I
n the aftermath of September 11, 2001, many Americans felt driven to give back to their country in any way they could. For Mike Leon and his family, this meant volunteering to raise service dog puppies for those with disabilities. In honour of those who lost their lives, they named their first puppy—a black Lab—Tribute. Though smart and adorable, six-month-old Tribute was also a crazy ball of energy. Service puppy trainers are responsible for socializing their puppies in preparation for the extensive training they’ll go through. They take them everywhere—visiting, out to dinner, you name it. Tribute needed A LOT of exercise before she could be relied upon not to upset the dinner table. But Mike had suffered a serious knee injury, making exercising Tribute a challenge. Not to be deterred, Mike, with his background in product development engineering, set out to find a solution. If Tribute could safely keep pace with his bike, he figured, she’d get a much better workout in a significantly shorter time—in a way that was also low-impact and fun for him. Perfect for tiring out a peppy puppy!
Mike Leon’s “A-ha” Moment One hard-to-tire dog plus a personal knee injury— sometimes inspiration strikes where you’d least expect it 18 moderndog
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Mike got to work on his dream of bike-leash attachment, designing it to make biking with a dog pleasurable while eliminating all safety concerns for both rider and dog. The very first prototype of the 1-Running-Dog Bike Tow Leash, as he named it, was a success: Tribute loved it, as did the rest of Mike’s pack. The 15 years that have followed have seen dogs around the world benefit from Mike’s “a-ha” moment. Along the way, smart design evolutions have been implemented—the Bike Tow leash is now adaptable for mobility devices such as wheelchairs, and the newly invented Dog Coupler allows you to ride with two dogs on a single attachment. To date, dogs have collectively run off hundreds of thousands of miles worth of excess energy with the Bike Tow Leash. If you have a hard-to-tire dog, the Bike Tow Leash may well be the solution you’re looking for! You can find out more at biketowleash.com.
THE SCOOP CAPTION THIS!
Pretty incredible—this surfing duo love each other! Ricky, a rescue cat, won’t surf without his friend Coppertone, a Miniature Dachshund, on the board. You read that right. This unlikely pair are stars of the upcoming Lucy Pet’s Gnarly Crankin’ K9 Wave Maker Tour ll, coming to a city near you! Making twenty stops, including ones in Canada, Seattle, Denver, Phoenix, and San Antonio, Lucy Pet is hitting the road with the world’s only mobile wave maker, a portable 75-foot tank filled with 5000 gallons of water that can produce a perfect wave every five seconds. But the amazing thing is this: cats and dogs are doing the surfing! One of the amazing felines riding the waves is the aforementioned Lucy Pet mascot Ricky the Rescue Cat, who insists on riding with his friend, pro-surfing Miniature Dachshund, Coppertone. And it wouldn’t be a surf sesh without Surfin’ Jack, the sunglasses-wearing spokesdog for Lucy Pet Foundation, who will also be showing off her skills on the board. While this spectacle is sure to raise your spirits, it will also raise awareness and funds for the Lucy Pet Foundation, whose mission is to reduce pet overpopulation and the euthanasia of over 80,000 dogs and cats per week in the United States. “We thought we’d never be able to top last year’s Gnarly Crankin’ Wave Maker Tour,” says Lucy Pet’s Joey Herrick. “But I think we’ve done it! Never before have there been dogs doing tricks on moving surfboards, not to mention cats that can hang twenty with the best of them.” Get in on the fun and find a stop near you at lucypetfoundation.org.
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PHOTOS MICHELLE STEIGMEYER
Surf's up!
C A R T O O N S © 2016/ 17 B Y D A V I D J A C O B S O N
Exercise your funny bone. Create a caption for this cartoon and submit your entry at moderndogmagazine.com/cartooncaption. The most comic captions will be published in the next issue.
AND THE WINNING CAPTION FROM THE SPRING ISSUE IS…
"Dog: Exercise, discipline, affection. In that order." SUBMITTED BY: JULIE V
RUNNER-UP CAPTIONS "You know the name of the cute Poodle on the mini StairMaster? I had my coat brushed just for her today." SUBMITTED BY: RYAN CONRAD
"You're going to need to wipe your machine when you're done with the Iditarod program." SUBMITTED BY: JOSEPH A. DEWAN
"I only ran two miles?! I'm NEVER going to make the cover of Modern Dog at this rate!" SUBMITTED BY: NANCY MARCELLINO
! E L I SM Sherlock
Modern Dog’s Photo Contest Winners!
BabyIzzy Lewie
Lab & Shepherd Mix
Min Pin
Lemon Beagle
Xxx Xxx
Scooty Mix
Sadie Sahara
Golden Retriever
Siberian Husky
Bella
Australian Cattle Dog
Teddy
Pomeranian 22 moderndog
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Emma
Jack Russell
Toby
Boxer & Border Collie
Katryn
Jack Russell
Bentley Miller
Bernese Mountain Dog
Charlie
Nanook
Golden Retriever
Pittweiler
Siberian Husky
Posi
Rocky Beau
Cam
Miniature Australian Labradoodle
Pitbull
Mal-Shi
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INSET PHOTO:GIGI SUBMITTED BY SARA SCANLON
s y a w a e v i G t a Gre
Find Your Perfect Breed match
The Non-Sporting Edition The Shiba Inu
T
Active, alert, attentive
hough independent and reserved by nature, Shiba Inus exemplify loyalty and affection to those who earn their respect. As the smallest of the Japanese native breeds, the compact and muscular Shiba Inu is alert, agile, and has the keen senses essential for a dog bred to hunt small wild game, boar, and bear. The breed descended from the primitive dogs of the ancient people of Japan and was either named after its hunting terrain or the colour of the brushwood leaves in the fall— Shiba in Japanese means “brushwood” while Inu means “dog.” The breed was almost wiped out after World War II due to bombing raids and distemper, but bloodlines have since been combined to produce the Shiba Inu as we know it today.
I'm attentive! Is the Shiba Inu right for you? Find out more at: moderndogmagazine.com/shibainu
Today’s Shiba makes an excellent watchdog and friend—the Shiba Inu is the number one companion dog in Japan. Do note, however, that Shibas absolutely need socialization and obedience classes as they can be strongwilled and possessive of their things. They also love and need their exercise, whether a good play session or a long walk. The breed’s short coat needs little care other than brushing and an occasional bath. In fact, the Shiba’s independence and cleanliness have led many to say this is a cat-like breed. This and the Shiba’s adorably foxy expression and spirited personality have earned the breed many North American fans.
The Bichon Frise
S
Peppy, curious, playful
mall, soft, and cheerful, the Bichon Frise (pronounced BEE-shon free-ZAY) is a companion dog through and through. The breed’s ancient ancestors are believed to have been brought by sailors from mainland Spain to the Canary Islands in the Atlantic as objects of barter and sale. Eventually the little white dogs were taken back to the mainland by sailors, becoming cherished in Italian, Spanish, and French royal circles thanks to their ability to learn tricks and their bright, lively, intelligent nature. Fast forward to 1973—well over a century later—and AKC recognition of the breed was achieved. The Bichon Frise’s expression is bright, inquisitive, and alert, connoting a sense of playful mischief. Though small—10 to 20 pounds—this sturdy and well-proportioned dog excels in athletic activities such as agility. The Bichon's dense, soft, curly double coat, when properly groomed, creates a true powder-puff appearance. While considered “non-shedding,” the coat requires a fair amount of maintenance to keep it looking nice. The Bichon Frise is intelligent, good-natured, and versatile and can be taught to do just about anything. Agility, obedience, and tracking are just some of the activities this breed has participated in. No matter what it's engaged in, the manner is merry; as AKC breed standard states, “A cheerful attitude is the hallmark of the breed.” Ever affectionate, biddable, and steady, Bichons make wonderful therapy and assistance dogs. With their sensitive, alert, playful, and affectionate nature, few people are immune to the Bichon’s charms.
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I'm l! playfu Is the Bichon Frise right for you? Find out more at: moderndogmagazine.com/bichonfrise
moderndogmagazine.com
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The One Person Dog
Does your dog only have eyes for you? Here's what is healthy behaviour—and what’s not—when it comes to the one-person dog By Teoti Anderson
S
ome dogs love everyone the second they meet them. (Yes, Labradors, I’m talking about you.) Others, not so much. Have you ever met a one-person dog? A dog who was completely devoted to just one person and really couldn’t care less about anyone else? This level of attachment can be fine for a dog who is also secure and confident, but it can be a real problem if he is so dependent that without his special person he can’t function. We often have unrealistic expectations of our canine companions, wanting them to be friends with everyone. Not
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every dog is wired that way. Some breeds are specifically known for having a close circle of friends. For example, take the Chow Chow. Chows are independent dogs, fiercely devoted to their families. They are known for being aloof with strangers. Are there specific Chows who are social butterflies? Yes. But the breed overall is known for not being particularly friendly towards people outside its inner circle. Sometimes, a dog has such a limited circle of friends there’s only one person in it. The sun rises and sets with this special someone, which can be very flattering if you’re that person! As
This level of attachment can be fine for a dog who is also secure and confident, but it can be a real problem if your dog is so dependent that without his special person he can’t function.
long as the dog doesn’t experience stress when separated from this person, then the situation is probably ok. Take the case of Cricket the Chihuahua and her pet parents, Howard and Melanie. The couple adopted the little dog from their local rescue, and Cricket instantly bonded with Melanie. Wherever Melanie goes in the house, Cricket is her tiny shadow. When Melanie leaves the house, Cricket will lie down at the door Melanie exited through and pine. Occasionally she’ll get up and go find Howard, who pets her and coos over her. She likes Howard. He can give her treats and she gobbles them up; she just prefers Melanie. Cricket clearly has a favourite person whom she deeply misses when absent, but she can still cope when that person isn’t around. This is not the case with all devoted dogs. Some dogs take their preference for a specific person to an extreme, developing separation anxiety when that person is not present. They may pace constantly. They may drool. They may refuse to eat when their number-one person isn’t there. Some will chew destructively at doorways or windows. Some will even go to the extent of self-injury, hurting themselves in an attempt to get out of a crate, room or house. Nothing seems to console them. This isn’t healthy! This requires professional help. What if you have a one-person dog who is confident enough when left alone, but the rest of your family members feel left out? For dog lovers, it can really hurt one’s feelings if a dog doesn’t reciprocate affection. It may feel humbling to realize love alone isn’t enough to make a dog return your affections, but it’s just a fact that some dogs will choose a person by whom the sun rises and sets, and all others are background details. One thing your neglected family member can do is hand-feed the dog. Yes, feed all kibble by hand. Food is a powerful reinforcer. Mealtime can be especially exciting for dogs, so associating mealtime–delivered piece by piece–with a person can help forge a meaningful bond. Whether the dog in your life loves just you or an army of people, that affection is a precious gift. How lucky we are to be the center of a dog’s world! n moderndogmagazine.com
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Treat time!
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R E M M SU
FUN!
ost of the Make the mith these season w roved finds! -app Modern Dog
Beat the heat! Playing in sprinklers is a quintessential summertime activity. The WATERBONE is a water sprinkler designed for dogs. It gives the same spray that pups love but is made of non-toxic, durable, recycled plastic to keep your dog safe from sharp metal and toxins. $13, sukiapettoys.com
Hit the links!
Here’s one for the golf fans out there! With plush golf balls, golf tee, and club (each with a hidden squeaker) tucked into a miniature golf bag, this fun Golf Champ toy set for small dogs is a true hole in one! $50, oscarnewman.com
Got a bad case of fetch-elbow? Give your arm a break and your dog a good time with the GoDogGo Automatic Ball Launcher. This awesome fetch machine lets you set the speed and distance of the balls so all you have to do is watch! Now available in Junior for smaller breeds. From $140, godoggoinc.com
Camping, hiking, running—the best part of summer is getting outside with your dog. Hydration is key though. Clip the nifty Collapsible Travel Cup from Dexas to leashes or belt-loops, and you’ll always be prepared to offer your thirsty pup a drink! $8, dexas.com
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DOG TRAINING
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Chances are you baby talk to your dog... but does he care? Dog-speak. We all do it, but a new study shows there’s good reason to baby talk to your dog By Stanley Coren • Illustration by Martha Pluto
W
hen I walked into the room I heard a woman speaking to someone. She was saying “You are so adorable! Yes you are! You are. You are so sweet that you make sugar seem sour. Don't you? Don't you?” She had pitched her voice quite high and was delivering the words in a melodious rhythm. Before I even turned to look at her, I knew that she was speaking to either a baby or a dog. When I did look in her direction I saw that she was holding a cream-coloured Pomeranian to whom this outpouring of affection was directed. So natural is this impulse to change one’s voice and speech patterns when addressing babies, puppies or dogs that she probably didn't even realize that she had veered from “normal” human speech into the specific dialect commonly used for the “babies” in our lives. In most cultures, when we want to communicate with a dog, there is a special form of language used. We all know that our language changes under different circumstances. For example, there is a formal language we utilize when we are talking to authorities or to an audience. It is more reserved and ceremonial than the language we employ when talking with family and friends. Similarly, there is a special kind of language we use when we are talking to babies and very young children. With babies we use a higher pitched, singsong tone with lots of changes in harmony and many repetitions. Technically, this form of verbal communication should be called infant-directed speech, however researchers typically call this special language reserved for children “Motherese.” Though the name comes from the fact that this is usually the language mothers use when they are talking to their offspring, the use of Motherese is certainly not confined to mothers. Virtually all adults, whether male or female, parents or not, tend to use it when they are
talking to a very young child. I have even heard a six-yearold girl use the same kind of language when talking to her baby brother, which suggests that this might be an automatic response we humans have when trying to communicate with young helpless things. In any event, research shows that infants seem to like to hear Motherese spoken because they pay more attention to people using it. But does your dog care? Back in the 1980s, psychologists Kathy Hirsh-Pasek and Rebecca Treiman (then at the University of Pennsylvania) were able to show that the language we use when we are talking to dogs is very similar to Motherese. Technically it should be called dog-directed speech, but instead they playfully labelled this form of language “Doggerel.” The fact that we use the same kind of speech when talking to dogs and children should not be all that surprising. Data has shown that the brains of adult women activate in the same way and in the same places when they are presented with a picture of their dog or a picture of their own children. Dog-directed speech or Doggerel is certainly not the normal language one would use around other adults. When we are talking to our canine companions our sentences are much shorter. Strangely, we also ask twice as many questions of our dogs than we do of humans, even though we really don't seem to expect any answers. These questions are mostly trivial social exchanges rather than information seeking, such as, “How do you feel today, Lassie?” A lot of these queries are in the form of “tag questions,” which is where one makes an observation and then turns it into a question at the very end. An example of this would be saying, “You're hungry, aren't you?” When speaking to our dogs we are also 20 times more likely to repeat ourselves than when we talk with adult humans. These moderndogmagazine.com
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repetitions can be exact copies, partial repetitions, or some form approached the speaker, or whether he barked or whined of rephrasing. An example of rephrasing and repeating would when the speech sample was played, and so forth. be “Lassie you're a good dog. What a good dog you are!” What they found was the puppies had the greatest reaction to Recently, a research team headed by Tobey Ben-Aderet of hearing Doggerel. The overall amount of reaction decreased as the Psychology Department at Hunter College in New York the dogs grew older, until, with the oldest dogs in the test group, City asked the obvious question—Does it matter at all to the reactions to normal speech or Doggerel were about the same. dogs that we are speaking to them in Doggerel rather than What seemed to be most important in determining the response in normal speech tones? The report of the team’s findings of the dogs was the pitch of the voice. This was especially true was published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society. for the puppies whose responses to Doggerel steadily increased Here’s how they set about determining the answer. To get as the pitch of the woman's voice became higher and higher. samples of Doggerel, the researchers The data clearly showed that when we use recorded the voices of women speaking baby-talk with puppies, it catches their to photographs of dogs. These attention and gets them more involved. photographs included a puppy, an But why didn't Doggerel have more of an The fact that we adult dog, and an older dog. To get effect on the adult dogs? The experimenters use the same kind a sample of normal human speech, suggest that this may be because the voices of speech when talking to used in the experiment were from people the they had the same women speak to the researcher. In all cases the women dogs and children should dogs were unfamiliar with, hypothesizing that repeated a short script which was, perhaps, as dogs grow older, they become not be all that surprising. “Hi! Hello cutie! Who’s a good boy? more selective as to whose voices they pay Data has shown that the Come here! Good boy! Yes! Come attention to. That means that when they are brains of adult women here, sweetie pie! What a good boy!” they are more likely to respond to activate in the same way adults When the researchers analyzed these the changes in inflection and tone coming and in the same places voice recordings they found that the from their owner or familiar voices. This when they are presented suggestion fits my own experiences very well. women used Doggerel when speaking with a picture of their dog For example, when my dearly loved Nova to all of the dogs, regardless of their age. or a picture of their In all instances their voices were pitched Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Dancer, was own children. higher than in normal human adultin his fifteenth year of life, and had slowed directed speech. The only difference down considerably because of arthritis, one that the investigators could find is that sure way to get him up and moving and his when talking to puppies, the women tail wagging was to pitch my voice as high as pitched their voices even a bit higher than they did for the older I comfortably could and speak to him in Doggerel: “Who's a good dogs. In other words, in these women's eyes all dogs were dog? Dancer's a good dog. You are, aren't you? I could just love baby-like and so they used baby-talk when speaking to them. you to pieces, couldn't I?” Of course, this conversation would take To test whether speaking in Doggerel affected the dog's place in private since there are still some people out in the world behaviours, the researchers placed a high quality speaker who view such verbal interactions with dogs as sheer nonsense, in the room with the dog. They then played back the an indication of lower intelligence or the sign of the early onset recorded clips from the same woman speaking in Doggerel of dementia. But now we have scientific evidence to show that and then using normal speech and videotaped the dog's they are wrong. So go ahead and baby talk to your dog. I’m reactions to the voice coming out of the speaker. Specifically, sure you already do, but now you have good reason to! n they looked at things like whether the dog looked at or
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Shopping partners!
Two of a kind!
Naomi Watts carries her dog Bob on a stroll in Tribeca, NYC.
Sofia Richie hits up Sephora with her Bulldog as a shopping companion.
! s r a t Sey’re just
Th ! s u e k li
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Sweet face! CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ©SPLASH NEWS, ©SPLASH NEWS;
Jamie Chung is all smiles while walking her dog Ewok in Studio City, CA. The Gotham star told People that adopting the rescued Miniature Schnauzer-Shih Tzu with husband Bryan Greenberg has taught them both lots of life lessons— including how to be ready for potential future children.
©SHARPSHOOTER IMAGES; SPLASH NEWS; ©FELIPE RAMALES, SPLASH NEWS
Meet Jamie Chung's "training baby," Ewok!
Model Gigi Hadid spotted carrying Zayn Malik's French Bulldog puppy while heading out in New York City.
Too cute! Rescue rules! Orange Is the New Black's Adrienne C. Moore with her two new four-month-old Papillon-mix rescue pups.
Best friends! These two go everywhere together Susan Sarandon is all smiles arriving at SiriusXM radio in New York City. Susan carried her Pomeranian-mix Penny as she entered the building to promote her TV series Feud.
! s r a t Sey’re just
Th ! s u e k li
Smooch! 38 moderndog
Lena Dunham and her dogs, Susan and Karen, arrive at JFK airport in NYC. SU MMER 2017
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ©FELIPE RAMALES, SPLASH NEWS;
Tallulah Willis kisses her Pomeranian after having lunch with a friend in Los Angeles on Thursday.
©ALLAN AMATO; ©SPLASH NEWS; ©SPLASH NEWS
Real life teddy bears!
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IN STYLE
This adorable smocked dress will delight country and city pooches. A polka dot bodice provides a bright contrast to the sweet printed skirt accented by strawberry pink ruffles. Spaghetti straps embellished with butter yellow beads add charming detail. OscarNewman.com
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Find your Forever Dog's Collar here at Karma Collars! Beautifully designed, heavy Latigo Leather, with super soft edges. Custom handmade in the USA. From Top: Stargazer, Yessena, Celtic, Augusta, Nashville. karmacollars.com moderndogmagazine.com
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INSPIRE
A Bond Like No Other
When Deborah Groenheyde saw a powerful dream-image that, for her, encapsulated the deep bond she shared with her dogs, she ran with it, and the Hand and Paw Project was born By J. Leslie Johnson
I
t is 3 a.m. Deborah Groenheyde sleeps fitfully, missing her dogs, Moka and Java. She and her husband adopted the adorable mutts, both tan-coloured with a splash of white, when they were just seven-and-a-half weeks old. A lovable brother and sister pair, Deborah is temporarily separated from them, and their absence weighs heavily upon her heart. In Deborah’s half-sleep state, something stirs inside her. It’s an image, a message about her extraordinary bond with Moka and Java, and her need as a human to connect with another species. An impression begins to arise, silently tugging at her conscious mind. Roused from her sleep by the developing idea, she stumbles out of bed and, still half asleep, begins to sketch. When she has given shape to the idea in her mind’s eye, she falls back to sleep, the image forgotten until she awakes the next morning. “That’s how it started,” explains Deborah, who refined this initial dream-impression into a beautiful image of her right hand and her beloved dog Moka’s paw, a representation of the deep connection that people have with animals. “It is about a story, a memory, a symbol of a cherished moment,” says Marten, her husband and business partner. This symbol of the deep human/animal bond led Deborah to start the Hand and Paw Project. Initially starting with a few simple bracelets and key chains, she has developed these initial offerings into an extensive line of what she calls “wearable art”
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Deborah Groenheyde
for both people and their beloved pets. Every piece features the hand and paw image. Handcrafted in Canada, the bracelets are available in an assortment of leather styles (plain, stitched, and wrapped) as well as in wrapped cork and vegan rubber for both men and women. All of the bracelets are riveted by hand with antique finished hardware. For the furry members of the family, the Hand and Paw Project offers a selection of leashes and collars in a variety of widths and lengths, in both leather and triple-ply nylon. Deborah regularly receives emails from people who want to share the powerful way the Hand and Paw symbol speaks to them. “A lady wrote to me and said, ‘I just got my bracelet, and I love it … I’ll never take it off,” explains Deborah, adding, “That makes me feel awesome.” Fashioning these wearable works of art has come naturally for Deborah, who has had a multi-faceted career as an artist. Following in her father’s footsteps—he is a wood worker in England who apprenticed to the craft at the age of nine—Deborah began her artistic career by fashioning beautiful bowls from woods like cherry. She then expanded into fashioning jewelry from semi-precious stones and metals, creating one-of-a-kind sets of earrings and necklaces, such as her hand-forged sterling heart, which features two interlocking hearts. When she and her husband Marten started the Hand and Paw
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From top, Deborah and her canine muse; a trio of signature Hand and Paw bracelets.
Project in 2005, Deborah began by approaching retailers in her home province of British Columbia. While this proved valuable, she felt drawn to exploring the larger market south of the Canadian border. “If I find something and I want to run with it, I’m not afraid to take a chance,” explains Deborah. She attended many of the major pet industry trade shows in the US and steadily made that and more contacts, increasing her share of the pet products market. It was then her business really began to take off. In just one year, she signed up over a hundred new retailers to carry Hand and Paw Project. “There is so much opportunity in the States,” she remarks. “We are bracing ourselves for another wave.” The success of the Hand and Paw Project has enabled Deborah to support animals in need. She makes her products available to shelters at a discount and the shelters can then use the profits to assist them in their daily operations. The Animal Cancer Therapy Subsidization Society, a not-for-profit society based in Edmonton, Alberta, that helps people meet the oftentimes staggering cost of providing cancer treatment for their pets, is just one of the organizations that has benefited from this arrangement. In addition, Deborah donates products from the Hand and Paw Project. In May 2016, the town of Fort McMurray, Alberta was ravaged by a huge wildfire, which destroyed over 2000 homes and buildings. The fire raged for a couple of months, covering an area of 1,500,000 acres and displacing several thousand residents in the area, including their beloved pets. Many had to flee at a moment’s notice and were not able to bring even basic supplies with them. Working with the Edmonton Humane Society, Deborah donated collars and leashes adorned with the Hand and Paw symbol to Fort McMurray dogs. “It is great being able to do something that allows me to give back to others in need,” Deborah says. “It is so cool that my project is helping the animals.” n
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HAPPENINGS
Have a Border Collie?
T
This Is Where You’ll Want To Be This Summer
his August 11 - 13, handlers from all over North America and their Border Collies will flock to Kingston, Ontario for the 30th annual Kingston Sheep Dog Trials Festival. The competition is Canada's biggest sheep dog trial and the largest in North America, drawing over 7000 spectators for the three-day festival. Taking place on the banks of the beautiful St. Lawrence River, it involves 680 sheep and four days of qualifying trials, leading to a final 20 competitors competing over three days. Check out how smart these dogs are. Each handler and dog goes to the post for nine minutes of glory. Each dog will pick up their four sheep from 250 yards away before bringing the sheep to their handler’s feet. The dogs then drive their sheep around a course of gates before penning them and bringing them in to a circular shedding area where they divide them into two groups. The dog and handler with the smoothest, most efficient, most workmanlike run wins.
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The top dogs that move on from this initial round will be required to gather two groups of 10 sheep, one to the left and another to the right, before joining the groups and driving them around a course of obstacles. Once back in the shedding ring, the dog and handler will separate the 15 sheep not wearing collars and pen the five wearing collars. The best job wins the trial! Aside from the main event, daily side attractions abound, including the Kingston Police K-9 demonstrations, the Rideau River DockDogs, the Ultimutts Stunt Dog Show, Bark Camp classes, and much more. And dogs are welcome! Bring your own dog to the trials and let her have fun at the Canine Adventure Lure Course doggie play zone. Then check out the craft vendors and marketplace to find cool stuff for dogs and their people, as well as the food trucks, because this much family fun works up an appetite! Tickets are just $10 in advance online (kids 12 and under are free!), and there’s a free shuttle bus from various points in Kingston proper as well as free parking. Find out more at cityofkingston.ca/featureevents!
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Hit the beach, hiking trails, or your own backyard with these fun summer finds! The WO Disc is a fresh concept in the world of flying dog Frisbees. Made in the USA, it’s a tug and fetch toy all in one! And WO provides two meals for orphaned children with each Disc sold! wodesign.com
Hi, it's me, Shellbee! As a dog, my gift was to become the center of my human littermates’ lives, their daily sunrise and sunset. This is the story of my heartfelt love festival on earth! doggyletters.com
Is your dog constantly panting? Would your pet rather sit in the shade than go outside? Let Coolaid’s lightweight, chemical-free cooling vests and blankets keep your pet the coolest around! coolaid.com
Get your dog’s fetch on with GoDogGo, the fetch machine for ALL ball-crazy dogs! The favourite Automatic Ball Launcher for over 17 years, it’s the best and safest game of automatic dog fetch or ownercontrolled play. GoDogGoInc.com
Shop Fetching Apparel’s rescue tees, tanks, hats, and doggie swag to help homeless pets! Fetching Apparel donates 40% of profits to animal rescue and spay/neuter efforts. Go get it! Fetching-Apparel.com
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BREEDS
THE
14 LARGEST DOG BREEDS Is bigger better? Where dogs are concerned, for some people the answer is a resounding yes. Get to know the 14 largest dog breeds, their AKC-mandated personality traits, and their average weight!
TIBETAN MASTIFF
Mellow and calm around the house; devoted to family, reserved and territorial with strangers. Average weight: 100-170 lbs
THE BULLMASTIFF
Brave, affectionate, and loyal, the Bullmastiff will always have your back. Average weight: 100-130 lbs
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NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF
CANE CORSO
Watchful and dignified. Sweet, steady, and loyal with loved ones, Neapolitan Mastiffs are calm but wary with strangers. Average weight: 110-150 lbs
Smart, trainable, and noble of bearing, the assertive and confident Cane Corso is a peerless protector. Average weight: 90-120 lbs
GREAT DANE
MASTIFF
Friendly and patient, Great Danes are laid-back and dependable. Average weight: 100-190 lbs
Courageous and dignified, Mastiffs are good-natured and docile. Average weight: 150-200 lbs
DOGUE DE BORDEAUX
Loyal, affectionate, and protective; courageous but not aggressive. Average weight: 100-150 lbs
LEONBERGER
Bright, patient, loving, and family oriented. Average weight: 100-170 lbs
BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG
NEWFOUNDLAND
GREAT PYRENEES
BLACK RUSSIAN TERRIER
IRISH WOLFHOUND
SCOTTISH DEERHOUND
Good-natured and calm. Average weight: 70-115 lbs
Smart, confident, courageous; protective of loved ones, aloof with strangers. Average weight: 80-145 lbs
Sweet, patient, and devoted, Newfies are famously good companions. Average weight: 100-150 lbs
Calm, dignified, kindly; courageous but not aggressive. Average weight: 105-180 lbs
Calm, patient, smart; strong-willed yet affectionate. Average weight: 85-160 lbs
Dignified, gentle, polite; quietly intelligent and perceptive. Average weight: 75-110 lbs
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P H O T O IR EN A MUCHAMEDS HIN A
How To Tame a Fox— and Build a Dog The amazing true story of how a pair of scientists condensed the domestication process by thousands of years and made foxes every bit as loyal and tame as dogs By Lee Dugatkin and Lyudmila Trut
S
uppose you wanted to build the perfect dog from scratch. What would be the key ingredients in the recipe? Loyalty and smarts would be musts. Cute would be as well, perhaps with gentle eyes, and a curly, bushy tail that wags in joy just in anticipation of your appearance. And you might toss in a mutt-like mottled fur that seems to scream out “I may not be beautiful, but you know that I love you and I need you.” The thing is, you needn’t bother building this. Lyudmila Trut and Dmitri Belyaev have already built it for you. The perfect dog. Except it’s not a dog, it’s a fox. A domesticated one. They built it quickly—mind-bogglingly fast for constructing a brand new biological creature. It took them less than sixty years, a blink of evolutionary time compared to the time it took our ancestors to domesticate wolves to dogs. They built it in the often unbearable minus 40°F cold of Siberia, where Lyudmila and, before her, Dmitri have been running one of the longest, most incredible experiments on behaviour and evolution ever devised. The results are adorable tame
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foxes that would lick your face and melt your heart. Many articles have been written about the fox domestication experiment, but a new book, How To Tame a Fox {and Build a Dog} (2017, University of Chicago Press), from which this article is adapted, is the first full telling of the story. The story of the lovable foxes, the scientists, the caretakers (often poor locals who devoted themselves to work they never fully understood, but would sacrifice everything for), the experiments, the political intrigue, the near tragedies and the tragedies, the love stories, and the behind-the-scenes doings. They’re all in there. It started back in the 1950s, and it continues to this day, but for just a moment travel back with us to 1974. One clear, crisp spring morning in that year, with the sun shining on the not yet melted winter snow, Lyudmila moved into a tiny house on the edge of an experimental fox farm in Siberia with an extraordinary little fox named Pushinka, Russian for “tiny ball of fuzz.” Pushinka was a beautiful female with piercing black eyes, silver-tipped black fur, and
Pushinka was so much like a dog that she came when her name was called and could be let out on the farm without a leash. She followed the workers around as they did their chores, and she loved going for walks with Lyudmila along the quiet country road. a swatch of white running along her left cheek. She had recently celebrated her first birthday, and her tame behaviour and dog-like ways of showing affection made her beloved by all at the fox farm. Lyudmila and her fellow scientist and mentor Dmitri Belyaev had decided that it was time to see whether Pushinka was so domesticated that she would be comfortable making the great leap to becoming truly domestic. Could this little fox actually live with people in a home? Dmitri Belyaev was a visionary scientist, a geneticist working in Russia’s vitally important commercial fur industry. Research in genetics was strictly prohibited at the time Belyaev began his career, and he had accepted his post in fur breeding because he could carry out studies under the cover of that work. 22 years before Pushinka was born, he had launched an experiment that was unprecedented in the study of animal behaviour. He began to breed tame foxes. He wanted to mimic the domestication of the wolf into the dog, using the silver fox, which is a close genetic cousin of the wolf, as a stand-in. If he could basically turn a fox into a dog-like animal, he might solve the long-standing riddle of how domestication comes about. Perhaps he would even discover important insights about human evolution; after all, we are, essentially, domesticated apes. Belyaev’s plan for the experiment was audacious. The domestication of a species was thought to happen gradually, over thousands of years. How could he expect any significant results, even if the experiment ran for decades? And yet, here was a fox like Pushinka, who was so much like a dog that she came when her name was called and could be let out on the farm without a leash. She followed the workers around as they did their chores, and she loved going for walks with Lyudmila along the quiet country road that ran by the farm on the outskirts of Novosibirsk, Siberia. And Pushinka was just one of the hundreds of foxes they had bred for tameness. By moving into the house on the edge of the farm with Pushinka, Lyudmila was taking the fox experiment into unprecedented terrain. Their 15 years of genetic selection for tameness in the foxes had clearly paid off. Now, she and Belyaev wanted to discover whether by living with Lyudmila, Pushinka would develop the special bond with her that dogs have with their human companions. Except for house pets, most domesticated animals do not form close relationships with humans, and by far the most intense affection and loyalty forms between people and their dogs. What made the difference? Had that deep human-animal bond developed over a long time? Or might this affinity for people be a change that could emerge quickly, as with so many other changes Lyudmila and Belyaev had seen in the foxes already? Would living with a human come naturally to a fox that was so domesticated? Lyudmila had chosen Pushinka to be her companion within moments of first moderndogmagazine.com
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A domesticated fox relaxing
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IRENA MUCHAMEDSHINA; IRENA MUCHAMEDSHINA
setting eyes on her, when she was an Author Lee Alan Dugatkin adorable little three-week-old pup frolicking with her brothers and sisters. When Lyudmila looked into Pushinka’s eyes, she felt an intense sense of connection, more than with any fox before. Pushinka also showed a remarkable enthusiasm for human contact. She would wag her tail furiously with excitement whenever Lyudmila or one of the farm workers came near her, whimpering with glee and looking up eagerly at them with an unmistakable request that they stop and pet her. No one could walk by her without doing so. Lyudmila had decided to move Pushinka into the house after she had turned one year old, mated, and was carrying a litter of pups. That way, Lyudmila would be able to observe not only An inquisitive domesticated fox how Pushinka adjusted to living with her, but whether pups peering out from behind vegetation. born in the company of humans might socialize differently than other pups born on the farm. On March 28, 1975, ten days before she was due to deliver, Pushinka was taken to her new home. Marina, and Marina’s friend, Olga. The girls wanted to be The 700–square-foot house had three rooms in addition to there for Pushinka’s big move-in day. At about 11:00 p.m., with a kitchen and bathroom. Lyudmila had moved a bed, a small Pushinka still pacing around the house, the three of them turned couch, and a desk into one room to serve as her bedroom and in for the night, the two girls lying down on the floor under office combined, and she had built a den in another room for blankets next to Lyudmila’s bed. To their great surprise and Pushinka. The third room was used as a common area, furnished Lyudmila’s relief, as they began to drift off to sleep, Pushinka with a few chairs and a table, where Lyudmila ate her meals silently sneaked into their room and lay down right alongside and where, on occasion, research assistants or other visitors the girls. Then, she, too, finally relaxed and went to sleep. could gather. Pushinka would be free to roam throughout. As Lyudmila would discover over the course of many When Pushinka arrived early in the morning of the first months with Pushinka, the lovable little fox would not only day, she began racing around the house, in and out of rooms, become perfectly comfortable living with her, she would highly agitated. Normally, pregnant foxes so close to giving become every bit as loyal as the most loyal of dogs. birth spend most of their time lying down in their dens, but Pushinka’s tale was only beginning. She and Lyudmila Pushinka paced and paced from one room to the other. She’d would live through much together, as would many of the other scratch at the wood chips that lined her den floor and lie down foxes and many of the other researchers working in Siberia, for briefly, but then she’d jump right back up again and make this bold experiment in domestication was only just starting another circuit of the house. Though she was comfortable to reveal all the wonders it would serve up for science. n with Lyudmila and came over to her often for some petting, Pushinka was clearly unsettled. These strange new surroundings For more, see Lee Dugatkin and Lyudmila Trut’s new seemed to be causing her extreme anxiety. She wouldn’t eat book How To Tame a Fox {and Build A Dog}. anything all day except for a small piece of cheese and an apple that Lyudmila had brought with her for her own snack. Excerpt modified from Lee Dugatkin and Lyudmila Trut’s 2017 book How That afternoon, Lyudmila was joined by her daughter, To Tame a Fox {and Build A Dog}, The University of Chicago Press
LOCKWISE FROM TOP: I R E N A P I V O V A R O V A ;
Domesticated fox puppies playing.
ADVENTURING
Ge t outside!
HIKING WITH YOUR DOG Tips and gear to help you make the most of the great outdoors By Elisabeth Fillmore
W
hen I'm preparing to go on a hike, my canine companions are always at my side, ready for an adventure. While I slip into worn hiking shoes and pack enough water for the trek, my dogs Callisto and Asta watch me with tails wagging, all eager anticipation.
I love hitting the trails with my two stalwart partners. Hiking with your dog is often safer than hiking on your own, and it gives your dog some really great nature time. The uneven terrain also works different muscles than a normal walk, helping keep you and your dogs fit and young. But the dogs, just like me, need to be prepared. There are a number of things to keep in mind when undertaking day hikes with your dogs. First and most importantly, a good leash is an absolute necessity. Many trails and hiking routes will let you bring a dog (excluding some National and Provincial Parks—check first), but a lot of them require your dog be leashed. Any sort of choke leash should be avoided on hikes (as well as just generally). I like the hands-free adjustable Hurtta Free Hand Leash with
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shock absorber. It easily adjusts for length and the lovely padded handle makes for a snug, secure, and comfortable grip (hurtta247.com). Or try Hund's Baldy, a convertible shockabsorbing leash (hunddenmark.com). It's five leashes in one! Shorten it up, leave it long, or wear it around your body for a hands-free leashing option. It also allows you to connect two dogs, plus you can loop it around a tree and hook it to itself, all without unclipping from your dog's collar, and it comes in awesome colours! Hurtta leash & harness A harness is also a great investment. It’s more comfortable for your dog and protects your dog’s neck. If you're doing a technically difficult hike, a harness versus a collar is particularly recommended. The weight distribution of a harness makes it safer and all around more comfortable for your pup.
Hurtta's Active Harness is a Modern Dog favourite (hurtta247. com). Sturdy and adjustable, it has a padded chest strap to ensure a comfortable fit, a handle on the back for better control of your dog in difficult places, plus 3M reflectors to improve visibility in the dark! It's important to note that even in the summer, the weather is very changeable in the mountains. Pack your dog gear accordingly. If it's a hot day, your dog might need a cooling vest or bandana, such as those made by CoolAid (From $19, coolaid.com). Just wet with water, wring, and shake, and the patented, chemical-free, thermo-regulating fabric starts to cool! I live in the Pacific Northwest, so I never leave the house without Callisto and Asta's rain jackets in my hiking pack. The Buster rain coat from Kruuse ($22, kruuse247.com) is great in wet and muddy conditions. The windproof and waterproof material is durable and breathable with an adjustable neck, so your dog won’t feel too restricted. The easy-on design also means there is less of a struggle when getting your dog suited up. I also always bring a pair of dog boots. Although these get the most use in the winter, Asta has sensitive paws, and when she once cut her paw on rocky terrain, I was very grateful I brought those boots along! The added protection meant she could finish the hike without me having to carry her. Highly recommended are Muttluk’s Mud Monsters rugged summer dog boots ($44 for two boots, muttluks.ca). These comfortable boots are designed for tough terrain and feature breathable mesh uppers and an easy-to-put-on design that stays on, protecting paws! If your dog has sensitive feet or an injury, try Woodrow Wear’s Power Paws Reinforced Foot Socks ($30 for 4 socks, woodrowwear.com), suitable for use both indoors and out. On hikes they protect against heat, snow, allergens, irritants like ice
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and salt, and sharp rocks. If your dog has an injured paw they’re great for covering a wound or bandaging. There’s even a special model designed especially for Greyhound feet! Callisto and Asta get very excited every time we stop: it's water time. Dexas' Snack-Duo has made my life significantly easier as I am now able to keep both water and food in the same container. They also make a nifty collapsible water bowl that handily attaches to your daypack via the attached carabineer. I make sure I stop at least once every hour for a drink, and more frequently on a hot day! If you're hiking for a full day, you should definitely bring some snacks for your dog as well as for yourself. Rayne makes a great Kangaroo Jerky ($7, raynecanada.ca) that all dogs go crazy for! Since kangaroo is a great source of protein and nutrients, it will keep your dog fuelled up and ready to go. It’s a perfect trail snack. If your dog needs a lot of incentive along the way, bring along some small treats you can offer frequently to tempt them. My dogs will do anything, even cross a creek, for salmon and cod flavoured Carnivore Crunch Treats ($10,stellaandchewys.com). Or make your own trail mix for your dogs and keep it in a treat pouch or baggie. Find Modern Dog's DIY recipe for Rex’s Terrific Trail Mix at moderndogmagazine.com/terrific-trail-mix. It's healthy, doggone tasty, and made of leftovers! You’ll also want to make sure you have a good first aid kit. If your dog has an allergies (for example, to bee stings) bring that medication as well. "Be prepared" is the Scout’s motto for a reason! Being caught without any emergency supplies while off the grid is anyone’s nightmare. Thankfully On The Road Pet has
What To Do If You Encounter A Bear With Your Dog Orvis, makers of great outdoor gear for people and dogs, outlines the following bear-safety tips.
a comprehensive safety kit for dogs that truly has you covered— they've thought of everything so you don't have to. Carry the thoughtfully equipped Dayhiker pack ($50, ontheroadpet.com) so you are prepared in the case of any emergency, or, if you're not venturing too far, leave the pack in your trunk and just bring the small veterinarian-designed first aid kit it contains so you can take care of any injuries, like a cut paw, while on the trails.
If your off-leash dog charged a bear who decides to retaliate, your only recourse is bear spray. But assuming you’re still in control of the dog and the situation has not escalated:
Many people who hike with their pups let them carry some things in a dog rucksack. Generally, young, healthy dogs can carry up to 25 percent of their weight, though this amount definitely varies according to breed and age. Start out with a light pack and go from there. Also make sure the backpack is well balanced and sits comfortably on your dog’s back. Get your dog used to wearing her backpack before setting out on a long hike. Callisto wore her backpack on normal walks for a couple of weeks before we tested it on a hike! We really like Hurtta’s technical backpacks. Their Trail Pack—a backpack and harness combo— remains in position when your dog moves and is adjustable to fit your dog comfortably so he can carry his own gear ($100, hurtta247.com). It also features a handle on the back that offers extra control when needed!
1 If the bear has not seen you: Quietly and quickly leave the area, but never run—you’ll look like prey. A bear can run faster than 30 mph—it will easily out-run, out-climb, and out-swim you.
The issue of dog poop is also something to consider while hiking. You don't want to be the person who doesn't dispose of dog waste, but carrying a full poop bag up and down the mountain kind of ruins the experience, plus it definitely gets in the way of experiencing that fresh mountain air. If you're on a day hike, I recommend a dog waste bag such as Turdlebag ($20, turdlebag.com), where you can store your dog's waste and feel simultaneously environmentally responsible and unencumbered by stinky dog poop. If you're doing a multi-day backpacking excursion with your dog, camping along the way, make sure you dispose of your dog's waste as you would of your own; bury it at least 200 feet away from trails, camps, and water sources. Lastly, it's important to remember bear and wildlife safety! This is one of the main reasons that you should always keep your dog on leash. While bear attacks are unlikely and rare, a three-year study of 92 attacks in North America showed fully half of them involved a dog that was off leash. If you can't depend on your dog to stay calm and listen to verbal commands in an emergency, a leash is best. (Note that this is almost all dogs; even the best behaved dogs are unpredictable in such situations.) Now get out there and enjoy yourselves! n
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2 If the bear has seen you: Keep your dog close and calm if the bear stays 15 feet or more away, avoiding sudden movements. Respect the bear’s critical space, do not approach it, and try to turn and leave how you came. If you must continue, take a detour and give the bear plenty of space. 3 If the bear’s behaviour changes: You’re too close, so back away—give him all the room he wants. Speak: use a normal tone of voice and move your arms. 4 If you have an encounter at close range: Stand upright and make yourself as large as possible. Don’t make direct eye contact—speak in a calm, assertive, and assuring tone as you attempt to slowly back up and get your dog and yourself out of danger.
5 If the bear moves toward you: Wave your arms and make a lot of noise—most bears will back off quickly. Throw an object on the ground (your camera, for example), as the bear may investigate it long enough for you to escape. But never toss food towards a bear or attempt to feed it. 6 Give the bear a way out: leave an escape route open for him. 7 If the bear charges: If you know the bear has an escape route AND you are sure it’s a black bear, stand tall and look it directly in the eye: yell at the bear and tell it to leave—make sure your bear spray is at the ready. Never use this strategy with a grizzly bear; you will need to use your bear spray instead.
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Ultra-cozy and ultra-chic—that’s how we describe the Double Donut Luna Bed from Bowsers. The luxurious, gorgeously patterned microvelvet is finished with piping to create an elegant sofa look that will be adored by dogs who love napping on the couch. The orthopedic insert ensures optimum support and comfort! $180, bowsers.com
Help your dog get where he needs to go without compromising style! The solid maple steps and recycled steel frame of the Loft Pet Steps is a beautiful blend of the natural world and modern architecture. These pet steps will complement any home while allowing your dog to safely and comfortably reach the bed or the couch. $225, nmndesigns.com
Surround yourself with beauty and positivity. For inspirational prints that hold the cheese, check out Worker Bee Supply Co! You’ll find a collection of unique prints designed by independent artists, like this gorgeous Keep Good Company print finished with metallic copper ink. $40, workerbeesupply.com
Doggy Décor Our current obsessions & must-haves! Pet furniture doesn’t have to stick out like a sore thumb! The Bitsy Studio by Studio Pet Company proves that a kennel can beautifully blend into your home and double as a gorgeous piece of furniture. With different wood, wire, and size options, these hand-assembled pieces can house any breed from Chihuahuas to Great Danes. From $950, studiopetcompany.com
Storage has never been so stylish! These cork and canvas dog toy bins from Hoadin provide a beautiful storage solution for all your dog’s accoutrements. Made of all-natural cotton canvas and finished with cork detail (available in black, jade, and natural), they’re made to last—if your bin doesn’t last a lifetime, they’ll repair it for free! $108, hoadin.com
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So bright and cheery, the Hairy Smiles Pillow from Beatrix & Midge Co. is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Super-soft, durable, and featuring a machine washable cover, you’ll have no qualms over sharing this with your dog. $39, beatrixandmidge.co
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eat D.I.Y.
photo tanya king
PET PROJECT
Ice Cream For Dogs
Make your dog a healthy frozen summer treat in a snap! INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups of natural plain yogurt (choose unsweetened, “live active culture” or “probiotic” yogurt. This makes it easier to digest and the “good bugs” are great for your dog’s gut health) • 1 ripe banana • 1 cup of peanut butter • 2 Tbsp honey
MAKE IT!
1. Mash the banana and stir it into the natural, plain yogurt. 2. Next stir the peanut butter (you may want to warm it to
room temperature to make it easier to stir in) into the bananayogurt mixture. Add the honey and mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into cupcake liners and freeze overnight. 4. Store in the freezer in a Ziploc bag until ready to give to your dog! Some dogs like to have their “ice cream” treat partially thawed before serving. And you may want to feed this treat outside! (People with carpeting, this tip is for you.)
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! Y UM
Safe “Ice Cream” Toppings For Dogs → → → → → →
Mashed Strawberries Blueberries Carob Chips (never give dogs chocolate!) Unsweetened Apple Sauce Rice Krispies Crumbled Dehydrated Liver Treats
*Honey can help dogs with seasonal allergies. *Dogs are lactose intolerant so feeding your dog regular ice cream made of milk or cream can upset their tummies.
INSPIRE
The Dog That Changed Everything For this family struggling to take care of two little boys with autism, Support Dog Roman was the unexpected answer to a prayer
R
oman joined our family in the summer of 2016 and our lives have been forever changed. Our story, like many others, includes sadness, fear, helplessness, and uncertainty, but is filled with joy, happiness, love, and hope. We are a mommy, daddy, and two beautiful boys, Sawyer and Ryker. Our boys are very different but share a love of video games, toys, music, being active, animals, and nature. They also both have Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD. Early on we learned neither Sawyer nor Ryker understood the concept of personal safety and had the tendency to “bolt.” Bolting or running off happens in an instant with no predictability and can be triggered by anything, for reasons we don’t always understand. Struggles with social situations, anxiety, and sensory challenges also impact our day-to-day lives. The boys need one-on-one support outside of our home; if two adults aren’t available we can’t go out which can be very isolating at times. The first time we met Autism Support Dog Roman, my son Ryker got upset about something and ran to his room. Without a word, Roman followed and put his head down. Ryker wrapped his arms around Roman’s neck for a hug and you could feel Ryker exhale. The following week when Laura, a trainer with BC & Alberta Guide Dogs, called to tell us Roman would join our family, well, it’s impossible to describe how that made us feel. Roman works with both of our boys. We were assigned two very special trainers, Laura and Nic. They didn’t just train us how to work with Roman, they did so much more, more than they probably realize. These two simply amazing women had an impact on our whole family in a very positive way. Graduation for us was three weeks later. What has changed? Everything. I could explain in detail how Roman makes us feel, that all of us have less anxiety, that with Roman I can take the
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boys out on my own so we aren’t isolated anymore, how we’ve gone places we could never have gone before and done things we didn’t think we could do, but instead I’ll share words from our family over the past weeks… “I don’t feel sad and angry anymore. How does Roman make it so I’m not sad and angry?” “Can I go swimming at the dog park today?” “Roman made it so I could button up a shirt! I never did that before! Can you believe it?!” “Can I feed Roman his breakfast?” “How do I hold the bag? And pick it up? It smells. Dog poo is gross, adults should do this only.” “We never went for walks here before!” “Roman, you’re my bestest friend ever.” “We need to clean our toys up so Roman doesn’t eat them.” “What adventure are we going on today?” “Are Laura and Nic going to come to my birthday party?” “I’m glad Roman keeps me safe because, you know what? I don’t know why I run away; I can’t help it.” “I love him so much.” “Can we go to Disneyland tomorrow because we have Roman now?” “I feel like I can breathe for the first time in years.” “I never knew he could change things this much or that I could love a dog this much.” “How is ‘thank you’ to everybody involved in bringing Roman into our lives ever enough?” “This is Roman. He’s our Autism Support Dog. Me and my brother have autism and he helps make us safe” “You know what Roman does? He makes my heart happy.” To BC & Alberta Guide Dogs, Autism Support Dog Team #37, thanks and gratitude for bringing Roman into our lives.—Heather n
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INSPIRE
SAVE A LIFE, FOSTER A DOG! By Rose Frosek
A new site makes it easy to connect with shelters and rescues to foster a dog in need
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photo volker fleck
H
ave you ever thought to yourself that you might like to foster a rescue dog but didn’t know where to get started? Well, Alison Eastwood, actress, director, daughter of Clint Eastwood, and founder of non-profit animal welfare organization Eastwood Ranch Foundation, is here to help. The accomplished animal lover has just launched FosterFurkids.com, a website that connects rescue groups and animal shelters with a U.S.-wide network of potential pet fosters and transporters like you! Anyone interested in becoming a foster can sign up and connect with rescue groups and shelters that need temporary fosters. Fosters can set up their own profile and list their preferences, including the type of animal they want to foster, breed, age, temperament, energy level, and length of time they can commit to fostering. They can also select whether they want to be a volunteer or paid foster, and set their own rates. Rescues signed up with FosterFurkids.com supply food, beds, leashes, bowls, kitty litter, and veterinary care so it doesn't cost fosters a thing. The website is completely free to use. If you want to make a difference, this
Alison Eastwood and her dog Logan.
is a great way to do it—you’re helping save lives. Fostering helps shelters and rescue organizations save more homeless pets by keeping space open. A rescue or shelter that’s at capacity can’t take in more animals. By fostering, you open up space for another animal in need, thus saving not just one life, but two! Alison has personally fostered about 20 dogs over the years and probably
over 50 cats, mostly litters of kittens. Two of her own cats are foster failures. “It's really hard not to get attached to them!” she laughs. “If you're looking for a new pet, fostering is a great way to get to know an animal before you make the commitment of adopting.” Is fostering right for you? “I think anyone that loves animals and has a safe, loving home would make a good foster parent,” Alison says. “And if you
can't foster, you could always sign up to help transport a shelter or rescue pet to wherever it needs to go.” As Alison notes, it's extremely rewarding to help an animal in need. Plus there’s no long-term commitment as a barrier for getting involved. The amount of time you foster for really just depends on the needs of the person and the pet. “We have a couple of fosters that have been fostering for a couple of months now and are indefinitely going to foster until the dogs find the perfect homes,” Alison explains, “but most common is several weeks to a month.” FosterFurKids.com/Foster-A-Pet explains everything you are expected to do as a foster, which basically comes down to providing a nurturing and loving environment for the rescue animal you are caring for. This includes: • Spending time with your foster pets and treating them like your own animals while they’re in your care • Bring your foster pet to the veterinarian should the need arise (the cost will be covered) • Providing your foster pet with food, care, and shelter just as you would with your personal pet • Providing behavioural feedback and evaluation to the rescue or shelter • Providing your foster pet with adequate exercise and socialization • Showing your foster pet to potential adopters or coordinating a meet and greet through the rescue/shelter). In short, fun stuff! But the best part, according to Alison, is “knowing that you helped save an animal, gave them lots of love, and prepared it for an amazing forever home.” We couldn’t agree more! Get started at FosterFurKids.com. n moderndogmagazine.com
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This all-natural solution prevents dog urine from burning your grass
The problem: burnt patches on your lawn. The solution: a rock you place in your dog’s drinking water (yes, really). If you’re frustrated by the yellow burnt patches your dog’s urine has left on your lawn, you’re not alone. Luckily, we’ve found a rather amazing all-natural solution! Here’s how it works: Dog Before Rocks are an all-natural rock mined in Australia, where they have been sold for over ten years as a simple way to save your lawn. By placing Dog Rocks in your dog’s water dish, they filter out impurities in the water, such as tin, ammonia, and nitrates. It’s these impurities that pass with your dog’s urine, creating the burned yellow patches in your grass. Dog Rocks are After chemical-free and don’t change the pH of your dog’s urine. Simply replace the Dog Rocks in your dog’s water every two months and your dog gets cleaner water and your lawn stays healthy! How nifty is that? From $17, dogrocksus.com
Bath-time Made Easy! The dream: the Ridalco Stainless Steel dog bath, fully equipped with everything you need to make bath-time a breeze! Think extra-high backsplash panels, tethers to secure your dog, and a ramp for easy access. Consider how much you’ll save at the groomer’s and this dog bath pays for itself in a snap! From $1099, ridalco.com
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Ayurveda For Dogs Ayurveda, for the unfamiliar, is an ancient system of holistic medicine. It has roots in the Indian subcontinent going back as far as 6000 BC and is based on the theory that health is defined as a balance between three fundamental mind-body types, or doshas. The three doshas—Vata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha (earth)—govern all functions of the mind, body, and spirit. Health is achieved through maintaining balance between the three. While many people are Ayurveda practitioners, following an Ayurvedic diet with appropriate foods determined by their particular dosha, Ayurveda for dogs is new territory for most—though not for dog owner Hetal Sheth. Hetal adopted two dogs that suffered from allergies and severe GI issues and, after many unsuccessful approaches to improving their health, decided to try Ayurveda. She found that the daily holistic routine helped vastly improve vitality and wellbeing in her dogs by catering to their unique needs. Impressed by the results, Hetal embarked on a mission to raise awareness and develop a system that would allow Ayurveda to be accessible to other pet parents. This mission became Curry n Pepper, an Ayurveda-based dog company named for two of her pups. Curry n Pepper offers plant-based food, treats, and grooming products that are best suited to each dosha. They even have an online quiz that will tell you your dog’s individual dosha so you can create a custom Ayurvedic routine just for them. Take the quiz to determine your dog’s dosha (find it at currynpepper.com/doshaquiz) plus shop dosha-appropriate treats—like Turmeric Coconut Chips if your dog is predominantly Vata—for your dog!
baby girl submitted by elyse
GOODBYE YELLOW SPOTS, HELLO LUSTROUS LAWN!
BODY & SOUL
DOG GEAR FOR GOOD AT THIS ATLANTA-BASED COMPANY, IT’S NOT JUST A TAGLINE; IT’S THEIR GUIDING PRINCIPLE
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ogs, fashion, and charity—we love when our favourite things come together! Mister Migs truly does create “dog gear for good” in their non-profit Atlanta design studio, and in more ways than one. The fashion-forward designs (we love the Gigi harness) are not only functional and fun but sustainable, using recycled denim as the main material. And in addition to doing their part to tread lightly upon the environment, Mister Migs is creating opportunities and breaking down employment barriers for youth with autism and developmental disabilities through their scholarship program, Your Career Unleashed (YCU). “YCU offers a unique, positive training model focused on teamwork to combat the tragically high unemployment rate of youth with autism and developmental disabilities,” explains Karen Lynn, Mister Migs’ founder and president. “Through this scholarship program, YCU is able to mentor young people, helping them explore employment options and focus on their wants and needs, not only for their career but for their life passion.” The 10-week program includes a hands-on internship, team building activities, career planning, mentoring sessions, and tours of Atlanta’s leading companies. While interning at Mister Migs, YCU participants are introduced to many different areas including design, marketing, photography, and production. Following the completion of the program, mentees are provided with career support from seasoned professionals for up to one year to help prepare them for employment in the real world. If you’re looking for beautiful, handcrafted dog clothes and accessories matched by an equally beautiful commitment to sustainability and community, look no further than Mister Migs. Their inspiring, principled approach to business is a breath of fresh air. Check out their designs at mistermigs.com.
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BODY & SOUL
HOW TO REMOVE A TICK IN 5 STEPS
Step 1:
Hold your dog still, part the fur, and take a close look. You want to make sure what you’re looking at is actually a tick! Well meaning dog owners have tried to remove warts, skin tags, cysts, and even nipples thinking they were ticks. Needless to say, this does not go over well with the dog. Ticks are usually a grey or tan-brown colour. Look from the side and see if you can see legs where the tick attaches to your dog’s body.
Step 2:
Once you’re sure it’s a tick, use tweezers to grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible, getting the tweezers between the head of the tick and your dog’s skin. Using steady, firm pressure, pull the tick straight up and away from your dog’s body. Do not squeeze or twist the tick when removing.
Step 3:
To make sure you’ve removed all of the tick, take a look at it closely once you’ve pulled it out. If it’s waving it’s legs, it’s alive and you’ve removed the whole thing. If it’s not waving, don’t worry; the remaining head or mouthparts still in your dog won’t make your dog sick, though it may fester a bit more. Your dog’s body will expel the bits left behind naturally.
Step 4:
Put the tick in a jar or a Ziploc bag and bring it to your vet for testing for Lyme disease/borrelia. Do not fling it away in disgust, as tempting as that may be. If it’s alive, it could reattach to your dog—or you!
Step 5:
Clean the area with some soap and water and apply a bit of Polysporin. It’s normal for it to be a bit pink or red where the tick was attached, or to see a scab and some hair loss.
Does Your Dog Have Fleas?
Is your dog itching and biting her rump at the base of her tail? She could have fleas! Take a fine-toothed flea comb (Andis makes a great one) and comb near the base of your dog’s tail. This area is a prime flea hangout. Take a look at what’s collected in the comb’s teeth—any small black dots jumping about are fleas. If there are some non-moving black dots, it could be flea dirt, a clear sign your dog has fleas. To check, press the collected hair/debris against a dampened paper towel—if the black dots turn rusty red, you’ve confirmed it’s flea dirt. You can also turn your dog over and look at her tummy, where it’s easier to see fleas moving around—you’re looking for small, fast moving black dots. If your dog has fleas, you’re going to need a flea treatment. Talk to your vet to get a topical spot-on treatment or, for a natural remedy, get FleaHex, an all-natural flea control product available from peterdobias.com. You’ll also need to wash your dog’s bedding and vacuum carpeting. To prevent future flea infestations, wash your dog’s bedding weekly, seal vacuum bags before taking them to the trash, and clear flea-concealing debris piles from your yard.
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BODY & SOUL
CREATE CHANGE These toys, collars, and tees give back! By Laura Dennis There are 4.5 million orphans in Ethiopia. Each and every one of these awesome products for dogs and their people provides two meals for these disadvantaged kids.
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hen Josh Allen spent time in rural Ethiopia as part of a mission trip with his church, he didn’t expect it would inspire him to launch a new personal initiative—but that’s exactly what happened. While on that trip, Josh spent a day with an organization called Bring Love In (bringlove.in). B.L.I. pairs up “unadoptable” orphans from Ethiopian government orphanages with local widows that have lost their kids and families, yet still desire to be moms. B.L.I. legally adopts the kids and pairs them up with the “moms” to create family units locally in Addis Abbaba, Ethiopia’s capital city. Josh came away “really impressed” with the organization and the way they were “helping locally, in their culture, setting the orphans up for future success from ‘the inside out’ rather than asserting more foreign ‘aid’ and culture from places like the USA.” Upon returning from the trip, Josh felt called to do more. He happens to be the owner of an all-natural pet supply
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boutique in Montana called Dee-O-Gee, so he decided to use his knowledge of the pet industry to develop a line of toys that would help. Through a partnership with Bring Love In, Josh donates a percentage of his sales to offer nutritional aid for the widows and orphans. This initial line of toys has grown into WO Design (wodesign.com), through which he offers awesome toys and collars, as well as tees for people, all which support Bring Love In. “The W is for widows and the O is for orphans,” Josh explains. “Each product WO sells has a tangible ‘give back’ associated with it. We've started with providing meals—home cooked food for the orphaned kids—and to date we've funded over 15,000 meals for orphaned children and widows.” The goodness doesn’t stop there. WO Design also encourages customers to participate in their toy-recycling program. While the products are designed to give years of fun (throw it, float it, recycle it, love it!), when your dog is done with them you can send them back to WO to be recycled into new toys instead of adding to landfills. Start to finish, WO Design is all good.
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BODY & SOUL
LET'S GO!
Raptor Shield Long summer days are meant for cookouts, hikes, river walks, and everything outdoors. But for small dogs, increased time outside means increased risk from above. Birds of prey like eagles, hawks, owls, and raptors can easily swoop down and snatch a small dog with their talons. Bill Caruso, the inventor of Raptor Shield, learned this first hand when his Silky Terrier, Daisy, survived an attack from a Red Tail Hawk. After searching for solutions and finding none, Bill created the Raptor Shield. Raptor Shield protective jackets are made from the same material as bulletproof glass so talons can’t puncture your dog’s skin, thereby preventing birds of prey from flying away with your beloved dog, increasing their chances of survival. The colours are also a natural deterrent to birds of prey. Designed to be comfortable for everyday use, the lightweight jacket is cool in summer and warm in winter and comes in sizes to fit dogs 2 – 22 pounds. Give your pup a fighting chance with Raptor Shield. Bonus: your dog will look like a Super Hero! Find it at raptorshield.com.
THE FIND
HAPPY JOINTS!
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Statistics show 1 in 5 dogs suffer from osteoarthritis. Don't let this be your dog! Take care of your dogs joints with a supplement designed to prevent and ease joint pain like Total Joint Care, Osteo-Pet's strongest formula, formulated especially for dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia. It blends proven ingredients (Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Boswellia, MSM, Hyaluronic acid, Green-lipped Mussels, Collagen, Antioxidants, and more) with bacon and cheese into a tasty treat that your dog will happily gobble! From $18, marvelousproducts.com
The Fun and Easy Way to Exercise Super-Energetic Dogs Do you have a can’t-stop, won’t-stop kind of canine? Some dogs only need a short, leisurely walk before they’re pooped, while others seem to be powered by Everlast batteries! If your highenergy dog would like to be in a state of constant motion and you’re running out of ways to tire him out, give biking together a try. A well-exercised dog is significantly less likely to act out, and biking with your dog definitely delivers in the exercise department; trotting next to a bike at a steady pace for a short time provides a better energy outlet than a long walk and is a great way to tire out a dog that wants to walk or run for far longer than you do. The Springer Dog Exerciser ($129, springeramerica.com) bike attachment lets you safely cycle with your dog, allowing your dog to run beside your bike. Springer’s low-mounted, heavy-duty spring absorbs 90 percent of a dog’s unexpected tugs, ensuring the rider keeps their balance while protecting the dog from traffic and the mechanics of the bike. So why not get out, enjoy the fresh air, and tire out your dog while you go for a spin? Who knows, you may both need a nap when you get home!
POPPY SUBMITTED BY JONATHAN DAVIES
PROTECT YOUR SMALL DOG FROM BIRDS OF PREY!
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BODY & SOUL THE FIND
GUNNER SUBMITTED BY ALYSSA LARRABEE
MAGICAL MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS Fight cancer the natural way with I’m-Yunity, a medicinal mushroom extract made from the Coriolus Versicolor, or Zhi, mushroom. An effective way to help the body fight cancer is to boost immune function, and this clinically proven mushroom supplement not only improves the immune systems of dogs but also slows the growth of cancerous hemangiosarcoma tumours, and in some cases, reduces their size. I’m-Yunity also works to increase the appetite and energy levels of dogs undergoing chemotherapy, helping your companion get back to their usual self! From $95, ImYunityForDogs.com
DON'T SHAVE MY BEAUTIFUL COAT!
We asked:
MD Poll Resu lts
How many times a day do you walk your dog?
1 2 3 4+
26% 27% 22% 25%
HOW TO GROOM YOUR DOG FOR SUMMER COMFORT Some grooming tips are counter intuitive. For example, did you know that you shouldn’t shave double-coated breeds in the summer? Though warm looking, the double coat actually allows dogs to regulate their temperature. Instead, you should brush or use a de-shedding tool to remove excess hair. We asked Megan Mouser, certified groomer and Education Manager For Andis (they’ve been making quality grooming tools for over 90 years!) for this tip plus four more to make sure your dog stays cool and comfortable this summer.
Routine grooming is particularly important for flea and tick detection. Proper maintenance and care can catch fleas and ticks before they cause any damage (disease, allergy, skin irritation from scratching…) to your dogs.
2
HYDRATE. Dogs can get dehydrated too, so always ensure your pet has fresh water.
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4 When grooming pets, remember to keep enough hair on the coat to protect skin from the harsh summer sun—dogs can get sunburned too! if you’re using a clipper, I recommend using Andis’ #7FC detachable blade for the perfect trim.
5 Keep your dog’s paw pads trimmed. Most people 1 Frequent brushing or using a de-shedding tool will remove excess hair from an undercoat and keep double-coated dogs cool and comfortable all summer. 76 moderndog
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don’t realize dogs sweat through their feet, so it’s important to regularly trim the hair around their paws to keep them cool and prevent debris from getting caught.
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I’M-YUNITY for Dogs. Improve your dog’s immunity and quality of life with I’m-Yunity. It’s the only clinically proven medicinal mushroom extracts of Coriolus versicolor. I’m-Yunity contains proprietary and standardized extracts to help to reduce pain and fatigue while improving energy levels, mobility, and appetite. Learn about clinical results at ImYunityForDogs.com and use code “moderndog” for a 5% discount!
WHIMZEES Natural Daily Dental Treats for Dogs are gluten-free, vegetarian, highly digestible, and made with human grade, limited natural ingredients! Ranging from XXS to XL, there's a WHIMZEES size for every dog. The fun shapes—Hedgehogs, Alligators, Veggie Sausages, and more—serve a purpose. The knobby designs promote dental health and assist with removing plaque and tartar! whimzees.com
All Natural Goodwinol Shampoo is gentle enough for even six-week-old puppies and kittens! This safe and natural shampoo is made in the USA, contains a natural insecticide, and has a clean, bright scent! goodwinol.com Bulldogge Nation Miracle Balm is truly miraculous. This all-purpose body balm speeds healing of wounds and any sensitive skin issues your pup may have. The exclusive formula is packed with allnatural healing ingredients and features Micro Silver, a safe topical alternative to prescription antimicrobials that gives this miracle balm its unique and powerful healing abilities. bulldoggenation.com From $39.99.
Introducing Delectables, the first low-fat lickable stew treat. The single-serve wet dog treat is perfect as an in-between meal snack or a topper for dry food. With high-quality ingredients like real chicken, beef, cheese and vegetables, pet parents can feel good about pampering their pups with this no-guilt treat. delectablestreats.com
Keep it green and clean with Dogs Love Kale & Dogs Love Snapeas treats! Your dogs are family; give them healthy snacks they’ll love. Made of wholesome ingredients, these treats are all natural and packed with superfoods like kale, moringa, and peas for a treat you can feel good about. Choose from 14 limited-ingredient flavours! dogslovekale.com moderndogmagazine.com
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SHOULD YOU BE WORRIED ABOUT WORMS? READ ON TO FIND OUT! Have you ever wondered if you should be worried about whether your dog has worms? We asked Dr. Mike Paul, a veterinarian and regular contributor at pethealthnetwork.com, to give us the lowdown on roundworms.
What are roundworms? Roundworms are the most common intestinal parasite in dogs and cats. The adult worms are round and range in size from less than two inches to almost six inches in length (!!). According to the Companion Animal Parasite Council, a survey conducted in 1996 using samples collected from across the United States found that more than 30 percent of dogs younger than six months of age were shedding roundworm eggs and other studies have shown that virtually all pups are born infected. Other surveys have found more than 25 percent of cats infected.
How does my dog get roundworms? Because the larval stages of the worms migrate inside the animal, some of the worms become encysted and lie dormant in the host animal’s organs. When a female dog or cat becomes pregnant, those hidden parasites can become active, mature, and be passed to the puppies or kittens across the placenta before they are even born. Sometimes the worms pass into the mother’s milk so the young ones are exposed again when they are nursing. Cats and dogs can also become infected by licking and/or eating grass and dirt and other soiled items that contain infective eggs or by eating prey animals that have already been infected.
What disease does it cause in my dog or cat? The migrating larvae travel through the body causing damage
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primarily to the liver and the lungs with most of the clinically significant damage occurring in the lungs and resulting in coughing and respiratory problems. Once adult worms form in the gastrointestinal tract, your puppy or kitten may develop vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.
Can my pet give the worms to me? (Ack!) Roundworms are not transmitted between people to other people. And they are not directly passed from dogs and cats to people. Affected dogs and cats shed eggs in their feces. The eggs mature into the infective stage of the parasite in the environment and are then swallowed with dirt that is either eaten on purpose (pica) or inadvertently (through inadequate care and hygiene). The infective larva do not progress to adult worms in people but the migrating larvae leave the intestines and find their way to other organs such as lungs, liver, or eyes and cause damage and disease in those locations. Note that wild animals, especially raccoons, commonly carry roundworms and can also be a significant source of environmental contamination in places where they share outdoor areas with us and with our pets. Human infection with raccoon roundworms can be especially serious so do not feed or otherwise encourage raccoons around your home.
What diseases do roundworms cause in people? People are not the definitive, natural host for roundworms, which means that the roundworm lifecycle is not completed in
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humans. We do not develop adult worms. In infected people, it is only the immature, migrating larvae that produce the illness. Fever, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing can occur as larvae move throughout various organs and systems in the body. If the larvae travel to a person’s eyes, their presence can cause inflammation and redness and even blindness. According to the Centers For Disease Control approximately 14% percent of people in the United States test positive to antibodies against roundworms. That does not mean that those people have significant, clinical disease but it does mean that at some point in time those individuals were exposed to roundworm larvae, which resulted in their bodies producing antibodies in an effort to clear the infection.
How is a roundworm infection treated? In people roundworm larvae infections are often self-limiting since the worms cannot undergo their complete life cycle in humans. If illness does occur, as can be the case especially in young children, your physician will decide on the best course of treatment given the particular circumstances. In pets, there are many products that are safe and effective in treating roundworm infections. Since so many puppies and kittens are already infected at birth, it is very important that all of them are given appropriate worming medication at two, four, six, and eight weeks of age. Likewise all new pets (regardless of age) should receive treatments as soon as possible. The goal is not just to try to avoid infection but also to stop the shedding of eggs in the stool before they contaminate your environment and become an ongoing source of infection for your pets and your family.
Better yet, how do I prevent roundworm infections? A single adult, female roundworm can lay hundreds of thousands of eggs in one day; and the eggs are very difficult to kill in the environment and can survive for years. Remember, however, that the eggs that are shed in the feces are not yet capable of causing infection. Depending on environmental conditions, it can take one to four weeks or so for that development to occur. Therefore, be diligent about cleaning up after your pets. Dispose of all feces promptly—at least once a week. Wash your hands and your children’s hands frequently—after handling pets, or pet waste, gardening/working in the soil, or playing in sand boxes/playgrounds. Wash vegetables well to remove any dirt, do not let your children eat dirt, and discourage your pet from hunting. And see your veterinarian for parasite testing and to discuss appropriate products for year round prevention and control of parasites in order to protect your pets and your family. If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian—they are your best resource to ensure the health and wellbeing of your pets. n
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BEHAVIOUR
“
PA INFLAM IN, MA ANXIET TION, A GROW Y— ING NUMBE R OF D OG OWNER S FINDIN ARE THERA G CBD PY WITH IT HELPS ALL
” Canine Cannabis: Is CBD therapy right for your pooch? By Darcy Matheson
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hough a three-time cancer survivor, it was ironically arthritis that finally started slowing down Joy Dockrey’s 10-year-old Bull Mastiff, Sammy. The 120pound senior pooch could no longer jump into the car by himself and was suffering lots of age-related aches and pains. When the strong painkillers prescribed by Sammy’s veterinarian starting “hurting his gut” and causing stomach issues, Joy, a palliative care counselor for people, sought out a more holistic alternative to traditional pharmaceutical therapies. “I thought, there has to be something else other than these painkillers that have these severe side effects,” she says. That’s when Joy discovered what she calls “the magic” of cannabis therapy for pets. She started with cannabidiol or CBD-infused doggie biscuits, later adding a bacon-flavoured CBD tincture to Sammy’s kibble. After introducing CBDs, she says the difference in her dog’s demeanor was dramatic—and almost immediate. “He’s got more of a spring in his step and a much greater joie de vie. It’s incredible,” she says. Joy is not alone. Much like the rise in popularity of medical marijuana
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treatments for people suffering from pain and disease, more pet owners are turning to these natural treatments to help the ailments of their canine companions. A quick explainer: CBD or Cannabidiol is a primary component of the cannabis plant. It’s non-psychoactive, which means it does not produce a “high” the way that marijuana does. That’s because it only contains a trace amount of THC—or Tetrahydrocannabinol—the mind-altering chemical in marijuana that produces psychological effects. The plant is non-toxic to pets. Pet owners using CBD formulations say the products have helped with everything from chronic pain management and arthritis, to seizure disorders and anxiety issues. Another cannabinoid treatment for animals that’s making waves is THCA. Like CBD, THCA is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. It’s found in raw and live cannabis and, like CBD, has been reported to help dogs with cancers, ease anxiety, and act as a significant anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant. To clear up any potential confusion, THC, which is psychoactive and potentially harmful to dogs in large amounts, and THCA products are not similar, despite having
a similar name. When the cannabis plant is heated or cooked, THCA slowly converts to THC, a process called decarboxylation, but THCA, when left in its raw and uncooked state, only has a trace amount of THC, making the products similar in safety to CBD products. Avery Rose, the founder and owner of Love Grass (lovegrass.love), a THCA product for dogs, cats, horses, and people which is made with raw uncooked cannabis oil and organic coconut oil, says the therapy is safe and has all the benefits of cannabis without the high. “We've received testimonials of tumours (both benign and malignant) shrinking, animals becoming seizure free, and animals achieving increased mobility caused by inflammation, hip dysplasia and arthritis,” says Rose. In addition to reducing pain, THCA has also been found to be effective for hot spot relief and curbing car sickness, she adds. At The Medicinal Cannabis Dispensary in downtown Vancouver, Canada, the demand for pet-specific items has grown so much it recently launched a separate division for pets, with products including a CBD-rich oil meant to relieve inflammation, spasms, and nausea, and dog treats made with CBD, coconut oil, and peanut butter. “People and animals share the same endocannabinoid system in our brains and nervous system. Cannabis medicines
are good for us, so it’s a logical extension that it’s good for our pets,” says founding director and longtime advocate Dana Larsen. Recommended doses are tied to the animal’s weight. Drops and tinctures are easier to measure than biscuits that need to be cut into pieces for smaller pups. When used in conjunction with other pain relief, owners can reduce their animal’s dependence on pharmaceutical painkillers, many of which are opioid-based, says Larsen. Dana touts the therapy for speeding up the recovery of his daughter’s eight-year-old Maltese, Bijou, after spinal surgery. “She still goes to the vet and was on other medication as well. I just found I was able to lower the dose of the opioid base by offering the cannabis drops,” he says. But is there science behind the treatment? Well, not much and not yet, which is troubling to many vets faced with clients clamouring to try it out—and asking for advice on dosage. Because of the current legalities around marijuana in North America there have been few veterinary studies looking at the safe and effective doses for CBD treatments. So with cannabis not legally available for use by veterinarians in North America, at this point the evidence is largely anecdotal. “There are no studies on the efficacy of the long-term consequences,” says veterinarian Dr. Adrian Walton, owner of
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the Dewdney Animal Hospital. “It really is the wild, wild west out there right now.” Without recommended dosage instructions from regulators, it’s also difficult to determine how a dog will metabolize the product, he adds. Veterinary colleges are also finding themselves in a unique position of having to take a stance on a treatment that falls in a bit of grey zone legally, even in areas where medicinal marijuana for humans is permitted. The American Veterinary Medical Association, or AVMA, has not released an official position on CBDs, but has published positive anecdotal testimonials from vets and pet owners on its website, saying the topic warrants more scientific-based research. Seeing a rise in companies interested in developing oral veterinary products with CBD for companion animals, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association says "it will still be some time before answers will be available" because research is still in its infancy. "We acknowledge that we are in the midst of rapid change in this area and will consider developing a position as we move forward," a spokesperson told Modern Dog in an email. The Journal of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (JAHVMA) published a survey about CBDs in a 2016 issue. It found that 64.3 percent of dog owners polled felt the consumption of hemp products helped their pets either moderately or a great deal, and relieved medical conditions including inflammation, anxiety, nervous and digestive system problems, nausea and/or vomiting, tumours, convulsions, skin problems, and phobias, including fireworks and thunderstorm fears. Veterinarians that already prescribe CBD to ailing dogs say it’s a godsend when it’s used in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan. Dr. Maja Kovacevic-MIladinovic of Healing Paws Veterinary
The list of canine conditions that benefit from cannabis and CBDs is growing, according to Dr. Caroline Coile, Ph.D. and author of the book Cannabis and CBD Science for Dogs. Here's her list of ailments that have been positively impacted by CBDs: 84 moderndog
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Care currently has around three-dozen patients on CBD therapy and she’s pleased with the progress. If your dog has pain symptoms and seizures and you’ve tried conventional therapies, you should consider CBD along with other therapies like acupuncture and laser therapy, she says. The most success has been seen with dogs experiencing chronic pain, mainly osteoarthritis, as well as with palliative care for canine cancer patients. CBD can even suppress and slow down the growth of cancer cells, she says. Seizure patients have also made great gains when CBD is added to their diet, reducing the strength and frequency of attacks, she says. “With one dog that had multiple seizures a day, the owners started adding CBD oil and already they’ve seen less seizures, and he’s recovered from them in a much shorter amount of time,” she says. The holistic vet stresses CBD should be considered the same as introducing any other new medication for dogs. Her canine patients are given blood tests beforehand and have regular physical exams during treatment to ensure their safety. “You have to get it from a reputable source with a vet script and dosage,” she says. “But if you do it right you can see great gains.” One of her greatest success stories is a 15-year-old Shepherd cross with such severe osteoarthritis and joint pain the owners considered putting him down. After trying a range of treatments, including laser therapy, acupuncture, and painkillers, they added CBD oil to their dog’s diet. The dog was walking better in just three days, and when he comes in for his acupuncture sessions, Kovacevic-MIladinovic says it’s like seeing a whole other animal. “He’s full of life now. He’s able to jump on the bed and they’re going on longer walks,” she says. “It’s definitely improved the dog’s quality of life.” n
• Anxiety • Aging and Mental Function • Arthritis • Autoimmune Disorders • Bone Health • Cancer • Colitis • Degenerative Myelopathy • Diabetes
• Free Radicals • Glaucoma • Infections • Inflammation • Obesity • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder • Seizures • Skin Conditions • Spinal Injury and Vomiting
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TRAVEL
PHOTO GLAMPING WITH PETS
T'S LE THE ! T HI OAD R
Go Glamping //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
I
magine a site where every single gorgeous vacation property listed will welcome your dog. Well, the dream is now a reality! Launched in 2016, Glamping With Pets’ singular focus is providing a user-friendly website for pet owners, allowing you to scroll through stunning vacation options across the globe knowing that every one is pet-friendly. They specialize in nature-based, pet-friendly accommodations: from dog-friendly safari tents, yurts, and eco-pods to tree houses soaring above the ground, they’ve got it all. If you’re looking for a unique and luxurious getaway that doesn’t leave your dog at home, this is where you’ll find it! They have over 3500 luxury rentals and staycation destinations across the globe, offering one-of-akind pet-friendly vacations in every conceivable environment. They also donate a portion of their profits from every booking made through their Happy Tails initiative in support of local animal shelters. Plus, up until Homeless Animals Day on August 19, 2017, every guest who books a getaway can choose to have a portion of their booking fee donated to a local animal shelter of their choice and in their name. Check out all of Glamping With Pets wonderful vacation rental options at pets.glampinghub.com.
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PHOTO FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: GLAMPING WITH PETS; MICHAEL UY OF ABBIE SURFS
With Your Dog!
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Check out some of the stunning dog-friendly properties you could find yourself at...
Vienna, Austria
Silverton, Oregon
Lanvalley, France
Warner Springs, California
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Moab, Utah
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INSPIRE
Pure Passion A chance encounter and two enthusiastic dogs turned Guillermo Goni into a passionate advocate of omega-rich fish oils. Read on to see why you might want to start supplementing your dog’s diet By J. Leslie Johnson
G
uillermo Goni is straight up about how he started Iceland Pure, a company dedicated to providing high quality fish oil for pets. And it wasn’t some divine lightning bolt of inspiration. “It was a pure coincidence; a chance meeting,” he laughs, adding, “I didn’t have any experience with pet products, and I knew nothing about industry regulations at the time.” Guillermo might call it coincidence. Others might call it fate. It started when Lee, his wife at the time, went to a beauty shop called Nordic Salon to get her hair done. Lee started chatting with her stylist and soon discovered that her hairdresser’s brother, Leifson, was visiting from Iceland. He ran a company that produced fish products for pets and was looking for an American distributor. As it turned out, Lee’s husband, Guillermo, was in the import/export business. The two women discussed the situation and decided Guillermo and Leifson should meet. The two men agreed to talk and Leifson gave Guillermo some samples to try on his own pups. “The dogs loved it,” says Guillermo. Excited by his dogs’ approval, he looked into the business and, discovering the profit margins were good, decided to get involved. Starting with an exclusive agreement to market the company’s products in the U.S., Guillermo eventually became the sole owner of Iceland Pure in 2007. The products, which are still sourced from Iceland and Norway, are now bottled in his warehouse in Vista, California, and the offerings have expanded to include a
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full line of canine fish oils, including salmon oil, sardine anchovy oil, and premier omega oil, as well as fish oils for cats and horses. Although Guillermo began distributing fish products for the simple reason that his own dogs loved them, he soon discovered the life-enhancing effects of the oils, the benefits backed by a wealth of research. Fish oils are rich in fatty acids such as omega 6 and omega 3. While omega 6 is found naturally in food sources such as olive oil, omega 3 is less common and so it is important to supplement the diet with it. The health benefits are many. Rich in omega 3 fatty acids, high quality fish oil can help dogs suffering from allergies because it reduces irritation and improves the coat. It also supports dogs suffering from heart disease because it reduces fatty acids, such as triglycerides, in the blood. And due to its anti-inflammatory properties, fish oil can help lessen the distress of pets experiencing arthritis and kidney disease. It can also fight cancer in dogs by slowing tumour growth and reducing weight loss from cachexia, a condition in which a dog loses both fat and muscle. In addition to salmon oil and sardine anchovy oil, which are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, Iceland Pure also produces shark liver oil, which, though it contains lesser amounts of omega 3s, has cancer-fighting substances such as alkylglycerols, squalamine, and squalene. These substances boost the immune system and decrease the side effects of conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. “If you add shark liver oil to the diet, it can protect the healthy
cells,” says Guillermo. He is quick to assure that Iceland Pure’s shark liver oil is produced ethically because the shark species he uses (such as the Portuguese dogfish and the Leafscale Gulper Shark) are not endangered. But for all the health-enhancing effects of his fish oils, Guillermo found his customers had one, perhaps unsurprising, complaint: After ingesting the fish oils, their dogs’ breaths smelled, well, somewhat fishy. He looked at possible ways to negate the fishy smell and discovered other manufacturers added oils such as lemon or peppermint to mask the scent. “I thought there must be a better way to make the oils less smelly,” explains Guillermo. Using human-grade fish oils, he started investigating a process called “molecular distillation,” which involves extracting oils at low temperatures for a short time (45 seconds as opposed to several hours) in a high vacuum. This ensures the healthenhancing components of the oil are not lost, reduces the possibility of creating harmful trans-fats during the process, and removes impurities such as heavy metals. It also has the important benefit of creating a “scent-free” product. Goodbye fishy-smelling dog kisses! Not one to rest on his laurels, Guillermo next tackled his choice of containers. When he packaged his salmon oil in plastic bottles, he noticed the bottles shrunk after being filled. Guillermo soon learned the salmon oil was dissolving the chemicals in the plastic. He was troubled about the possibility of chemicals entering his oil and diminishing its quality. “I did not feel comfortable giving salmon oil in plastic bottles to my own dogs, so I started looking for an alternative,” he explains. Upon purchasing the company, he made the switch and began using aluminum bottles coated with an epoxy resin, which, once hardened, becomes glass-like, preserving the purity of the oil. Once again, his dogs had positively guided his decision-making. For Guillermo, if it’s not good enough for his own dogs, he won’t sell it. And as time has passed, he’s become increasingly committed to educating others on supplementing their dogs’ diet with omegas, having seen firsthand the difference it can make. “When I first started, many people did not understand the value of good nutrition,” Guillermo says. “But a few small changes, like feeding a good diet and adding fish oils, can really help.” n moderndogmagazine.com
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Cool New Products SPECIAL PROMOTION
Clever and informative hand-drawn dog infographics and other fun dog-centric designs on tote bags, phone cases, mugs and more. We do colourful and modern custom pet portraits too! beatrixandmidge.co
Give your pup a round furry friend with P.L.A.Y.’s Safari Toy Collection featuring five lovable animals. Each toy has a unique sounding supersized squeaker and sliding hind limbs for hours of tug-of-war fun! Collect all five for $69! PetPLAY.com
Collars for pet parents of faith. Created by Donald Hart, author of If Jesus Had a Dog (see Amazon), these collars are made for those that get the GOD/DOG connection! Washable and made in the USA. $17, christianpet.net
Buster Reflective Rope Leads are excellent topquality traditional rope leads at an affordable price! Reflective stitching ensures maximum safety. Available in two thicknesses, two different lengths, and eight colours! kruuse247.com
Turdlebag attaches to your leash and holds your full bag of dog poo so you don’t have to! With a large compartment for full poo bags, dispenser for clean bags, and pocket for keys, Turdlebag keeps all your walks carefree! turdlebag.com
Puppy Pan is an innovative indoor house training system available in three different sizes for dogs up to 35 pounds. Use with litter or puppy pads. Great for disabled cats and rabbits, too! PuppyPan.com
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Your Dog's Safety And Happiness Are In The Bag! All the essentials your dog needs for its daily adventures (and emergencies too!). Code “ModernDog” for 10% off. ontheroadpet.com
Cyrus Meija and Faith Maloney, two of the founders of Best Friends Animal Society
Open Your Heart, Change a Life
Thes Dogs Nee a Homee! d
Want more love in your life? Adopt one of these dogs and Best Friends will fly them to you for free! Want to change the world? Start by saving a life. Adopt the dogs featured on this page (along with other select dogs and cats over six months old) for FREE from Best Friends Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah! Don't live near the Sanctuary? No problem! The dogs and cats eligible for this promotion can fly home to you for free anywhere in the U.S. or Canada! Email adoptions@bestfriends.org for more information or to set up an adoption appointment.
Shug • American Staffordshire Terrier/Cattle Dog mix Ted • English Pointer
BIO: Just look at Shug's amazing face. This Pit/Cattle Dog mix has so much love to give, it's ridiculous! Shug is an accepting, easy-going gal, who wants her very own home. She’ll do best as a single pet, but that isn't too much to ask for a dog who's this wonderful! Walks, Kong toys, bones, tug-of-war: sign her up! She's also a treat-catching ace. Shug's mellow, loving ways have won her lots of friends at Best Friends. Born in 2010, she is ready and waiting to find her forever family. Come meet this happy, distinctive girl! She'll steal your heart and fetch that treat.
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BIO: How do you make Ted happy? The answer is toys, toys, and more toys! Ted is an active dog who loves being on the move. Playing fetch with stuffed toys is one of his favourite pastimes. He also likes to take dips in his pool, and to run around and play with his many doggie friends. He's a popular, happy-go-lucky guy who loves people, too. Because Ted is so active, he has a tendency to run off to try to find adventures. He'll need a home with a secure enclosure and a person with a watchful eye. Ted was born in 2011 and came to Best Friends from an overcrowded shelter. Now he's looking for a home full of love and fun.
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Malibu • Border Collie
Joy • Staffordshire Bull Terrier/Shar Pei mix
BIO: Sweet, loving Malibu enjoys walks and being outdoors but is also great at relaxing inside. She's excellent with people and always happy to meet new friends. She enjoys playing with toys and food puzzles. Malibu was born in 2013. She is house trained and has great indoor manners, though she'll do best in a home without cats. Although Malibu lived with another dog at a shelter before coming to Best Friends, she is reactive to other dogs. Dogtown caregivers are working with her on this issue, and it's possible that with continued training she may be able to have a doggie friend again, but for now she’ll do best as a single pet. A human best friend is her deepest wish.
BIO: Joy is both attentive and dreamy! She’s eager to please people and already knows sit, stay, down, and come. All she wants in return are love and tummy rubs! Her dreams are filled with wishes for a person of her very own. Joy has Babesia, a blood disorder usually picked up from a tick bite. Because it can be transmitted among dogs, Joy must be an only child. But she's ready and willing to give you as much love as an entire pack! Born in 2006, this smart, outgoing gal also loves to run and play. Everyone needs more joy in their life; how about bringing this Joy into yours?
Oliver • Chihuahua
Lincoln • Labrador Retriever
BIO: Steady and solid: that's Oliver. He was born in 2006 and, although he takes medication for a heart murmur, he walks, plays, and eats like a much younger dog. Oliver gets along well with other dogs, too. He has a tendency to guard his toys, but he listens really well to his caregivers. This steady little fella is looking for lasting love in a home where he can spend the rest of his life. Due to Oliver's heart murmur, he can only travel home via land or by hitching a ride on an in-cabin flight (Best Friends will cover the cost of his in-cabin flight).
BIO: Handsome Lincoln has a gorgeous black coat, though in the wintertime he sometimes looks white because he loves to roll around in the snow! A social boy, Lincoln enjoys being around people and is eager to please. Although he likes to play with other dogs, he sometimes reacts with barking and lunging when he sees them while on leash. However, Lincoln is a very smart boy who picks up on training cues quickly and can now pass other dogs much more calmly. He really enjoys food puzzles, which help slow his eating and keep his mind active. He has mild anxiety and is working on his car manners so he can be the perfect co-pilot. Lincoln was born in 2007 and would love to ride off into the sunset with you.
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PET PROJECT
craft D.I.Y.
ows how Wenokur clearly kn Bichon Frise Siggy ! 13-year-old Siggy lives wn to rock a flower cro eenies ourite things are Gr otos of in Chicago. His fav ph ble ora ad re mo d Fin tagram and dirty laundry! Ins r's ku no We n Sara r. Siggy on his perso ne sig de She's a floral (@sarawenokur).
How to Make a Flower Crown For Your Dog Create the ultimate photo op for a lasting memory that will make you smile. By Rose Frosek
From Coachella to bohemian weddings, the flower crown trend rolls on, likely because it’s so darn fun and pretty. With this DIY, your dog can now get in on the action. Follow the steps below to make your dog a flower crown in just four easy steps!
Materials
How to make a flower crown in 4 easy steps
ÆÆFloral wire ÆÆFloral tape ÆÆWire cutters (scissors will do in a pinch) and greenery (real or silk, your choice—but if you’re ÆÆFlowers using real flowers and greenery, Google your blooms and
1. Unwind a length of wire and hold it around your dog’s head to approximate how much wire is needed. Cut enough wire to encircle your dog’s head, adding a couple inches for overlap. Form the wire into a circular shape and rest it atop your dog’s head to double check the size.
greens first to make sure they’re not poisonous to dogs!)
PHOTOS SARA WENOKUR
MAKE IT!
2. Once you’ve got it right—neither too tight nor too loose— attach the overlapped ends by wrapping them together with the floral tape. 3. Choose your greens and flowers. We recommend starting with a layer of greens and leaves to form the base of your crown. Use the floral tape to wrap the stem of each piece of greenery to the wire base of your crown. Wrap the tape around the stem a few times to make sure it stays. 4. Add your flowers! Trim each flower stem to about three inches in length then, using the floral tape, tape the stem of each flower to the crown as you did with the greenery. You can either place flowers around the whole crown or just focus on the front of the crown. Asymmetry looks nice too as does leaving some of the crown with just greenery! And voilà, a gorgeous flower crown. Now get out your camera! For more inspiration, check out Sophie Gamand’s lovely photos of Pit Bulls bedecked in flower crowns. Part of the artist’s acclaimed photographic series Flower “Flower Power, Pit Bulls of the Revolution,” Power the photos are a wonderful effort to change H breed stereotypes and have been featured
Beauregard
Photographer Sophie adorable, adoptable Gamond & two Pit Bull pups.
previously in this magazine. SU MMER
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2016/17
PHOTOS SOPHIE GAMAND
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Angel
Aden is still up for adoption in Alabama (Anniston) at the ere at Modern Dog, Calhoun we’re BIG fans County Humane of the bully breeds. Unfortunate Society (calhouncountyhs.blogsp ly, these dogs still suffer a major public image ot.com). problem, the sad they are the most states still awaiting result being frequently euthanized their forever homes. shelters—between they’ve been waiting dogs in American Collectively, 800,000 and 1 over 15 years for million Pit Bulls euthanized every an adoptive family to choose them. are year in the U.S. The calendar is already a success, opinions changed and forever with New York City-residing homes found for French artist Sophie not yet all) of the some (but decided to call long timers featured Gamand attention to the in its pages. You check out these terrible gap between professed love can up-for-adop our tion cuties—Ade for pets and the was abandoned n, for example, shocking number are euthanized outside the Calhoun that in shelters annually. County Humane Society shelter The result was acclaimed photograph and has been waiting her ic series Flower two years for a to call his own—at Power, Pit Bulls family the Revolution. sophiegamand.com, of Adorned with custom-mad also purchase a where you can her Pit Bull subjects calendar ($30). e flower crowns, It’s a super gift politely ask viewers bully-breed-loving idea for a assumptions about to question their friend. And let’s the breed. find these dogs already! Perhaps a home your new best friend Sophie’s newest is featured on the pages of this calendar. effort is her just released Power calendar 2017 Flower that supports animal Want more Pit rescue and solely features Pit Bulls Bulls? from shelters and Check out The Pit rescues across Bull Life on 110, the one of our winter must-read book 34 moderndog picks! WINTER
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We can’t get enough of these stylish Growl Towels and their bright jacquard design. Perfect for the beach, patio or backyard, they do double duty with a silky, velour side for napping and an absorbent cotton fibre side to dry off after beach or poolside adventures! $48, growltowels.com
Hit the water safely and in style with the PAWS Aboard Pet Life Jacket. As well as ultimate fit, buoyancy, and visibility, these canine life jackets have a breathable mesh underbelly for proper drying to avoid painful chafing. Anchors aweigh! Available in sizes to fit dogs up to 90 pounds. From $28, fidopetproducts.com
Protecting your dog from sun damage is a breeze with this spray on sunscreen for dogs with aloe vera from Warren London. It not only protects your dog’s most vulnerable areas from harmful sun exposure, it moisturizes your dog’s skin and conditions the coat too. The non-greasy formula means no slippery fingers either—no muss, no fuss, just dog-safe sun protection! $12, warrenlondon.com
GET W
Splash! ET!
Essential summer gear for water-loving dogs and their people
Show your dog’s commitment to the earth with the Orbee Ball from Planet Dog. Made of durable, recyclable, and non-toxic materials, this ecofriendly ball has a rope attached to turn any game of fetch into a tug-of war. Plus, the ball is infused with natural mint oil so it smells fresh! From $18, planetdog.com
After you toss another shrimp on the barbie, give the boomerang toy from BeOneBreed a whirl! The boomerang is made with durable, soft-on-yourdog's-mouth fabrics that float, so it can provide hours of outdoor fun in water or on land! A summer musthave. $7, beonebreed.com
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Perfect for water dogs! Nothing says summer like a vibrantly bright collar. And better still is when that collar is totally waterproof and stink-proof! The Hydro Collar from Hot Dogs All Dressed—which can be customized with different decorations and is available in an array of colours—lets your dog make the most of the season. From $15, hotdogsalldressed.com Active dogs will love this buoyant, durable football perfect for a day at the beach! It’s tough yet pliable, making it easy for you to grab and soft on your dog’s mouth, plus it will keep its shape and float-ability even if punctured by a rough-housing pup. Your dog will be making a perfect spiral catch in no time! From $12, jollypets.com
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BREED PROFILE
The Rhodesian Ridgeback A Rather Remarkable Hound By Kelly Caldwell
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C, I T E L H T A FIED, DI G N I I N G LOV
M
y friend’s dog runs ahead of us on the trail. His deep strawberry-brown coat shines like diamonds in the sun and his muscles flex and ripple wildly as he jumps over fallen trees and other obstacles. Is it effortless? No—but he makes it appear so. He’s off and out of sight, but only for an instant, returning every few seconds to keep a watchful eye on his dog-mom. He walks patiently with us for a time, pressing his head into her hand—it’s not the most subtle request for affection I’ve ever seen, but it’s certainly winning. Then, he’s off again. He’s a Rhodesian Ridgeback, and he is a sight to behold. Those eyes are so intense that, at first glance, they’re slightly intimidating. And yet, there’s a sensitivity behind them. Suddenly, I’m madly in love with a dog I’ve just met. I suspect this happens a lot with Ridgebacks. The Ridgeback, or African Lion Hound as he is also called, was developed in the Southern regions of Africa. At the core of the breed is a half-wild hunting dog that was used by the Khoikhoi, a group of Khoisan people native to southwestern Africa, also known as the Hottentots, so named by the Dutch settlers in imitation of their click-based language. This wild dog had a characteristic ridge on its back, with the hair growing forward. Over time, these wild “ridged” dogs inter-mated with a variety of breeds, brought by people who emigrated to the region. The farmers of the region needed a hunting dog who could withstand brutal temperatures, bush terrain, and work during periods when food and water were in short supply. A short coat was desired, to fend off ticks. And they wanted this hunting dog to live in the home as a family companion. While always placing importance on that trademark ridge of hair, early enthusiasts saw benefits in introducing other breeds to this mix, including Great Danes, Bloodhounds, Mastiffs, and Greyhounds, to create the desired characteristics.
In his earliest days, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was used to flush small game. Soon enough, farmers realized their large potential and brought the dogs out when the time came to hunt a lion. As farmers rode along, Ridgebacks set out ahead in packs, tracking and cornering a lion until the hunters arrived to finish the deed. In 1922, a Rhodesian Ridgeback breed standard was developed. Fancier Cornelius von Rooyen led the charge to create an accurate description of appearance and temperament. His Standard was accepted by the South African Kennel Union two According to the most recent AKC registration statistics years later. To date, very little [1] Labrador Retriever has changed in the Standard. [2] German Shepherd Dog By the 1920s, Rhodesian [3] Golden Retriever Ridgebacks had made their way [4] Bulldog to the United States, but the first Ridgeback wasn’t recognized [5] Beagle by the American Kennel Club [6] French Bulldog (AKC) until 1955, and the [7] Yorkshire Terrier Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of [8] Poodle the United States (RRCUS) was [9] Rottweiler founded in 1957. The breed [10] Boxer is popular in North America [42] Rhodesian Ridgeback today, ranking as the 42nd most popular breed in the United States, according to the AKC. The Ridgeback is a hound, to be sure, but there are varying opinions about what type of hound he is. Whether he’s a sighthound or a scenthound or something unique altogether is a question for Ridgeback fanciers to debate. In the United States, for example, he can compete in lure coursing trials; in Canada, he cannot. For the average animal guardian, he’ll simply be a wonderful, all-around hound. Is he the ideal choice for everyone? No. There
Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.
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Profile: The Rhodesian Ridgeback Size: Medium-Large The AKC accepts male Ridgebacks from 25 to 27 inches at the withers; females 24 to 26 inches. The desired weight is 85 pounds for males and 70 for females. Activity level: These dogs need physical and mental stimulation to thrive. Two walks a day would be a minimum, and ideally some involvement in a canine sporting activity.
minute. But, once you head back home, your Ridgeback is likely to be a sun-seeker, a couch-hog, and a cuddler. Never spooned with a Ridgeback? You’re missing out! He does need exercise though, and plenty of it. The Ridgeback is a high-energy breed that needs a physical and mental exertion on a daily basis to thrive. A couple of 20 minute walks a day is the minimum for a Ridgeback. If you can find a safe trail where he can run off-leash, wonderful. Other sporting activities, like Obedience, Tracking, and Agility may hold the Ridgeback’s interest and offer some physical challenges. You’ll need to consider this breed’s prey drive. The Ridgeback was born and bred to hunt, and he will. Home owners will need a yard with a tall, secure fence. This helps to ensure the safety not only of your pet but also of curious neighbourhood critters who might pop over for a visit and, well, never leave in one piece. Grooming is a snap with the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Keep his nails short to avoid any slips, but otherwise it’s the basics, plus a weekly brushing. The occasional bath may be needed, but this is a notoriously clean and odour-free breed. Who knew it was so easy to look gorgeous? He’s athletic, but a world-class cuddler. He’s intense, but sensitive. He’s a natural hunter, but he’s gentle with children and other companion animals. He’s a walking contradiction, and perhaps that is at the root of his magic. This impressive breed is one of the dog world’s sweetest members—an all-around hound who’s a joy to be around. n If you like the Rhodesian Ridgeback, you might also give some consideration to the:
Grooming: Basic maintenance is all that is required. A weekly brushing and the occasional bath. Heritage: Hunting dog Originally developed by Boer farmers to hunt game, including lions, but also to serve as a faithful companion at home. For more information on Rhodesian Ridgeback in the U.S. and Canada, visit ridgebackrescue.org.
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Saluki
Ibizan Hound
READ YOUR BREED
The Basenji
INSET IMAGES ©AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB
are a few considerations, of course. As with so many Hounds, the Ridgeback can be quite independent-minded. Okay, let’s just use the word stubborn… lovingly. This is a headstrong breed, and training and socialization from an early age is important. With his size and muscular build, this handsome hound needs to be taught good manners. Fortunately, coinciding with that independent streak is the breed’s strong desire to please the people he loves. Positive reinforcement therapy works well with Ridgebacks. Train early, train with a positive approach, and these dogs can be an absolute dream to be around. They’re very quiet around the house. Will they alert you to someone at the door? Yes, probably. But guard dogs they are not. Classic Hound-style, the Ridgeback is a bit reserved with strangers. But soon enough, he’ll warm up and it’s a great feeling—so long as you don’t mind 80-some-odd pounds of leaning and cuddling. Out on the trail, or working in a field trial, you’re going to see a focused performance athlete going a mile a
For more breed profiles, go to moderndogmagazine.com/breeds
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TRAINING
D
r. Caroline Coile’s specialty is “dogs, dogs, dogs!” Her Ph.D. was based in canine senses, genetics, and behaviour, and she writes extensively on veterinary, genetics, senses, and other science topics. But that doesn’t mean she’s not about fun! A bestselling author, she’s written, among other titles, an Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds and Show Me!, a book about showing your dog (this over-achiever shows her dogs, too). She’s also authored two books—Beyond Fetch and Silly Dog Tricks for Smart Kids—of fun tricks and games to play with your dog. We asked Caroline to share a fun dog trick that anyone, kids included, can teach their dog, and she offered up this crowd-pleasing trick utilizing classical conditioning. Ready to teach your dog to wink? It’s easier than it sounds…
Wink of an Eye Want to teach your dog to wink? The winking trick is based on a kind of learning called classical conditioning, made famous by Pavlov. He accidentally discovered his dogs would drool at the sight of the person who brought them food, whether that person had food or not—just like you may
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drool at the sight of your favourite drive-in! What happens is that one thing (the drive-in sign) signals that something else (eating a burger) will follow it, and eventually you start to react (by drooling) to the sign just as you would to eating the hamburger! In this dog trick the sound of a word (“Really?”) will signal something else (being touched on a whisker), and eventually the dog will start to react (by blinking) to the word just as he would to being touched on the whisker.
Here’s how to do it: 1 Say “Really?” 2 Touch your dog’s whiskers on the side of his muzzle, on the same side of his face you want him to wink with. 3 He will automatically blink that eye. Give him a treat. 4 Keep practicing until he starts to wink before you can touch his whiskers. Now when you say “Really?” to him he will wink as though you and he were sharing a secret. You’ll be the hit of the dog park! n
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Left to right, from Too Licky
Connie’s Book Club Pack these great reads in your beach bag!
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CONNIE WILSON’S SELECTION OF THIS SUMMER'S MUST-READS.
Too Licky By Gigi and Ryan Giles; Illustrated by Cynthia Inks The journey to find the “perfect dog” for you and your family can be a lot like Goldilocks’ search for the perfect porridge—you keep looking until it’s just right. The Giles family knows all about this quest. They were in the market to adopt a rescue dog after their first rescue, Nova, crossed the rainbow bridge. Since Nova had been so perfect, the bar was set high. The family began tossing out characteristics their next dog should, or shouldn’t have. Then-four-year-old twin sisters Gigi and Ryan started a list that grew so long it grew into Too Licky, a book of how they found their “just right” rescue, Sugar. Too Licky also features the stories and likenesses of other rescue dogs illustrated in a fun and beautiful way, and half of the proceeds from each book go to help other rescue dogs like Sugar find their “just right” forever home. Share this wonderful book with the kids in your life!
Murder at The Puppy Fest: A Melanie Travis Canine Mystery By Laurien Berenson Dive in to this rollicking murder mystery investigating the death of a dog-loving philanthropist and the involvement of his crazy family! Heroine Melanie Travis is invited to volunteer at a benefit for a local dog rescue being held at a grand mansion. Once Puppy Fest begins, the man of the house is nowhere to be found—until Melanie makes the grisly discovery of his body! The family begs Melanie to find answers, sending her on a dangerous journey chasing a criminal who has been groomed to win. Bring this one on your summer vacation!
Meditating with Animals: How to Create More Conscious Connections with the Healers and Teachers Among Us By Pamela Robins We all know that feeling of peace and quietude that comes from just being in our dog’s presence. Now imagine if you could harness that energy to benefit the overall health and wellbeing of both you and your dog. After enduring a series of hardships, Pamela Robins saw how hard her animals were working to selflessly comfort and heal her and was worried that this could be depleting them of their own energy. In response, she created a meditation method that is based on the idea of consciously recycling positive energy between animal and human to create deeper and more nurturing connections. Complete with pictures and meditation exercises, her new book, Meditating With Animals, beautifully explains and illustrates the techniques so both person and dog can benefit. moderndogmagazine.com
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When Is Buddy Coming Home? Helping Children Understand the Death of a Pet By Gary Kurz
From Doodles Canine Coloring Fun
Doodles Canine Coloring Fun By Setria James Make learning about man’s best friend fun and creative with the Doodles Canine Coloring Fun colouring book. Kids will love getting artsy with the 34 full-size illustrations of breeds like the Dalmatian, Poodle, Dachshund, Chow Chow, and more. Facts and characteristics of the dogs accompany the pictures so that little ones can learn while creating a masterpiece. Looking for more fun? There are plenty of interactive games and activities including a crossword puzzle, word search, maze, and more. P.S. Colouring isn’t just for kids anymore—we won’t tell if you get this book just for you!
Tuesday’s Promise: One Veteran, One Dog, and Their Bold Quest to Change Lives By Luis Carlos Montalván & Ellis Henican While war leaves scars on skin and limbs, sometimes the invisible wounds take longest to heal. Iraq War veteran Luis Carlos Montalván was just one such case. Following two combat tours, he struggled with physical disabilities compounded by agoraphobia and crippling PTSD that made it difficult to readjust. Then he met a service dog named Tuesday. Luis chronicled their incredible bond in his New York Times bestselling memoir Until Tuesday. Following the success of this book, Luis and Tuesday became dedicated to demonstrating the many life-changing benefits of pairing trained service dogs with veterans dealing with the physical and emotional wounds of war. Their journey is immortalized in Luis’ wonderful new book, Tuesday’s Promise, sadly published posthumously; Luis Carlos Montalván took his own life before he could see his moving new book published. A letter of love to his dog Tuesday and an offering of hope to other veterans dealing with the invisible wounds of war, this inspiring story of love, service, teamwork, and the bond between a man and his dog brought tears to our eyes.
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Grieving the loss of a beloved dog is hard enough as an adult but for children it can be an especially confusing and devastating time. In When Is Buddy Coming Home, biblical scholar Gary Kurz aims to replace that sadness with hope and comfort in knowing that separation from loved ones is only temporary. Loss can also raise difficult questions about life and death and this book guides parents to help their children understand death and reassure them that their departed furry friends have found everlasting peace.
Shellbee's Story By Jennifer Flynn-Campbell; Photography by Ariana Boroumand Anyone who has ever experienced a deep bond with a dog will relate to this lovely, moving memoir told in the words of an English Lab named Shellbee. Shellbee’s story is relayed through letters written to her human pack and peppered with personal photographs. It reads like a wonderful, heartstring-tugging scrapbook of touching memories, from birth to the crossing of the Rainbow Bridge. Readers will love the innocently funny tales of Shellbee’s time at puppy school through to relatable and heartwarming family holidays, road trips, and her work as a therapy dog.
The Ultimate Guide to Free Roam Dog Boarding By Silvia Geiger Interested in starting your own dog business? This could be the book for you! More and more dog people are looking for an alternative to traditional kenneling and are turning to the newest trend in dog boarding— Free Roam Boarding. With the increased demand for free roam facilities, there’s also more need for people providing this service. This book is written for those who are interested in offering this more intimate, family-style type of boarding. Silvia Geiger’s extensive background in dog behaviour, training, and boarding spans decades and her how-to book, Free Roam Dog Boarding, can help make your business successful, even on a small scale. Complete with cute client photos and personal anecdotes, this book covers everything from financing and expenses, to worst case scenarios.
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Imagine the perfect collar—made to fit your dog’s neck with your choice of soft-edged Latigo leather, jewels, cabochons, and stones. Karma Collars has made this a reality with their custom artisan collars, like the Zion Leather Dog Collar, pictured. A thing of beauty. karmacollars.com
Love it!
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I think we all can agree that the worst part of being a dog parent is cleaning up the messes. So. Many. Messes! The Muc Gripper scoop and bag system is an ingenious solution for those repelled by picking up dog poop. Keeping you at a distance, it prevents the transference of disease and diminishes the general yuckfactor. mucgripper.com
We know it’s tough to make our pups any cuter, but this Fetching Apparel bandana featuring Jeffrey the smiley rescue dog does the job. And with 40% of the proceeds going to animal rescue organizations and spay/neuter programs to help combat animal homelessness, we feel good, too! fetching-apparel.com
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Quickly wipe down your dog after a romp at the beach or the dog park with Full Body & Paw Wipes from John Paul Pet. The moist aloe-infused towelettes are specially formulated to help groom and clean your pooch after every adventure. They remove dirt, dust, and dander from your pet's coat and paws, while providing a protective film that gives a shinier coat. johnpaulpet.com
WHAT WE FOUND! Nifty finds for dogs & the people who love them
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Modern Dog’s enthusiastic pack of canine treat testers are super into these treats! Crispy baked and gluten free, Dogs Love Snap Peas treats are low-cal and packed with protein, vitamins, and fibre! With three mouth-watering flavours dogs love, both you and your pup will feel great about this treat! dogslovesnapeas.com
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Show off your pooch with pride with a personalized photo flag from Flagology! Choose from a wide range of designs or use the simple flagmaker system to customize your flag and make it as unique as your dog. The durable outdoorquality fabric is designed to withstand the elements so you can let your pup flag fly! flagology.com
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Pee pad users rejoice! The BrilliantPad Automatic Dog Pad System automatically replaces soiled pee pads with fresh ones and seals the used pad for convenient and odour-free disposal. The super absorbent biodegradable pads also use less material than traditional pads for a house-training win! brilliantpad.com
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DOES MY DOG NEED A FRIEND? By Nicole Wilde
Is it possible my dog is depressed after a playdate? My dog spent the weekend with my friend and her dog while I was out of town. The two dogs play really hard but well together. Since she’s come home she seems down. Do you think she misses her friend? Should I consider getting a second dog? Do some dogs just do better when they live with a canine friend? If so, what’s generally better, getting a dog of the same or opposite gender? It’s wonderful that your dog has a friend to play with, and the fact that they play roughly together tells me that they understand each other’s body language and respect each other’s boundaries. What great fun and good exercise! As far as whether your dog misses her friend afterwards, that’s impossible to say. It could be that after a few days of high arousal and stimulation, being in a quiet place alone is taking some re-acclimation. Or it could be that she’s simply worn out and resting. Or, for all we know, she is depressed and misses her friend. In any case, whether you should entertain the notion of getting her a permanent live-in playmate depends on a few factors. First, many dogs have a canine friend or two who they get along famously with, but do not like or want the company of other dogs. Does this describe your dog? Does she show any signs of discomfort or aggression when passing other dogs in public, or does she seem happy to see them? Does she play with or at least tolerate being in the vicinity of unfamiliar dogs off leash? Assuming she does get along well with most other dogs, the next step would be to consider how well she might get along with
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them in your home. Some dogs are absolutely fine with other dogs in neutral locations, but once the play moves to their home turf, watch out! Territoriality on the part of an existing dog has put the kibosh on many a dog adoption. Regarding which gender to adopt, I suggest you look for a compatible male. It’s not that female dogs can’t get along; many do. But if there are going to be aggression issues, female-female is the most dangerous combination. Think of it this way: when you see men brawling in a bar, it’s loud and obnoxious, and there might be some physical damage, but it’s not normally deadly, just a lot of posturing. Females, on the other hand, are a lot quieter when they fight—but a lot more intense. (Ever work in an office? ‘Nuff said.) All things being equal, I’d get your girl a nice boy toy. For people with a male dog, getting a female is the better bet. All else being equal, opposite gender is always less risky. Since you might not be sure how your dog will do with another dog in your home, why not foster a dog for a rescue group? That way, you can test the waters. And if the two get along famously, you could apply to adopt the dog. If not, you could try other dogs from the organization, and could eventually find one who’s a good match—or, perhaps you’ll discover that your dog appreciates being an only dog. Either way, you will have helped a rescue group by fostering, and there’s no pressure or commitment to adopt. I appreciate that you care so much about making your dog happy. Good luck in your quest to find a playmate who will hopefully be a stay-mate as well! n Nicole Wilde is an award-winning author of 10 books on canine behaviour. Her books, seminar DVDs, and Wilde About Dog blog can be found at nicolewilde.com.
TRAINING
Don't Choke Me! 4 Myths About the Prong Collar By Pooja Menon
K NEC MY ORE IS MCATE I DEL YOU N THA INK! H T
Picture this scenario. You’re crossing the street and ahead of you is a man walking his dog. His dog has on a prong collar—a metal collar with fanglike protrusions encircling the neck—and he’s straining on his leash. The owner gives a tug and the fangs tighten around the dog’s neck, choking him and stopping him short. Once he recovers his breath, he resumes dashing forward. Frustrated, the owner jerks the leash again. The same process plays out over and over, with the dog no more aware of what his owner truly wants from him. Even to the untrained eye, this process seems painful and ineffective. Why then do we as dog owners’ continue to use the prong collar to get our dogs to listen to us? In order to understand this phenomenon better, we’re sharing four of the most common myths behind the prong collar’s continued popularity and the truth behind each misconception.
MYTH #1 Prong collars are designed to emulate a mother’s “correction” method—the pinch made by a prong collar imitates the pinch made by a mother’s mouth when she grabs her puppy’s neck during a correction. FACT: There is NO scientific evidence to back this claim. In actuality, the chances of your dog making such an association are little to none, especially since his mother would not be physically present during the correction.
MYTH #2 Dogs have thick fur around their necks that acts as padding, so prong collars don’t actually hurt them. FACT: Wrong. The skin on a dog’s neck is significantly thinner than the skin on our necks. Theirs is comprised of 3 to 5 cells, while ours is much thicker, comprising of 10 to 15 cells! This means that they feel the squeeze of a prong collar far more than we would if we were to test it out on our own necks. Studies have also shown that frequent pressure around dogs’ necks can cause a host of problems, from skin punctures to crushed tracheas, and even spinal cord problems.
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MYTH #3 My dog is too stubborn and the prong collar is the only way to stop him from…(insert undesirable behaviour here). FACT: Your dog might be responding to the prong collar momentarily—every time you correct him with a yank to the leash, he essentially chokes and suffers enough discomfort and pain to listen to you. While this method is temporarily effective, it does not fix the underlying problem. You might also run the risk of encouraging more negative behaviours in your dog that once never existed. For example, if your dog experiences pain or discomfort via you yanking him back every time he tries to greet another dog while out on a walk, he’ll soon learn to associate the presence of other dogs with pain and discomfort, resulting in harder issues to fix, like aggression and reactivity to other dogs. He might also start to associate walks with you as a precursor to pain and discomfort.
MYTH #4 My dog isn’t treat motivated. This is the only thing that works. FACT: Remember, pain and discomfort seldom produce positive results. It’s far better to do a little sleuthing and find out what does motivate your dog to listen. If he does not respond to the treats you offer, try others. Boiled chicken, cheese, or hot dogs might just do the trick. Some dogs might even prefer tennis balls to food. So get busy and find out what makes your dog tick. Dogs—no matter how adorable—can be frustrating. They have minds of their own and a curiosity that often lands them in trouble. But by using positive reinforcement training, your dog can learn just about anything. Heck, he’ll want to! So bin that prong collar and get yourself and your dog signed up for some training classes. We promise you, the process will be pain free and the bond between the both of you will be even stronger. n
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Must-haves for you & your dog
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Must-haves for you & your dog
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Pool LAST LICK
Party These dogs are all about making a splash!
Lillie loves the water. Her face looks like she is terrified. Lol. —Susan Lucas
Rusty
Sookie
Willow
Mya
Symbol
Dixee & Kane
Mia
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