s i m p l e
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Creature Comforts
Health
Design
Behaviour
Inspire
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TA B LE OF C 4 5 8 7 36 62 78 80 118 120 Feature 26 38 50
Editor`s Letter Contributors
Artist Profile Painting Pet Personalities Creature Comforts Toys for Dogs Happy Eco New Year! Keeping Cozy Hibernating in Style! Party Dresses to Bark About Things We Adore Did You KNow?
A Life of Service how to save money moving to europe with your dog 101
20 124 WellnesS 86 90 116 122
Pets Project
A Sporty Paw-ty DIY Dog Toy
7 Common Winter Dog Ailments to Avoid The Ultimate Grooming Guide Handy at Home Grooming Gear Top 3 Paw Balms
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C ONTENTS 64 Breed Profile 74 Behaviour
Before the Bite
Charismatic King cavalier spaniels
128 Working with Pets 42 closing notes 130 Kibble & Bits
Tails to Wag About
Top Dogs!
Without Power
Pawsh Cover Photographed by
Laura L. Benn of Pawsh Studio
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welcome Whenever the end of a year draws near, it is only natural to become reflective about our lives. Did we accomplish all that we set out to achieve? Did we grow as an individual? Did we exceed our personal expectations? While personal development is an admirable quest, I find myself preoccupied this year with one presiding question -- “Was I happy?” Too often do we confuse the concept of success with money and title instead of focusing upon a simpler, more attainable definition – happiness. This question is the inspiration behind our new edition of Pawsh No. 8 “The Simple Things.” It’s about relishing each and every moment for what it is, creating lasting memories, slowing down, focusing and above all connecting with those things and people we love most in the world. Everything in this issue has been designed to reflect this profound ‘less is best’ attitude. The photography is clean, chic and minimalist in nature; the topics are each linked to improving one’s quality of life for you and your dog; and the overall artistry – we hope – is meant to inspire a calmer, more collected way of life.
Laura L Benn and Rory
Special thanks to everyone who contributed to this edition of Pawsh! I hope you and your loved ones enjoy curling up with it this season. Warmest wishes,
Founder/Editor
design beauty Minh Tam Nguyen
Minh believes that beauty lies in the details, a belief that serves her well in her work as a graphic designer. With over a decade of graphic design experience, ranging from corporate work to freelance, her skills are diverse and versatile. When she’s not busy creating gorgeous layouts on the computer, she is often pursuing other creative outlets, such as jewelery, stationary and more. She also enjoys mad cuddles with Rory while working in the PAWSH office!
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Photo by Stephanie Heim
Hello again ladies and gentlemen!
writers ALEXANDER BENTLEY
Alexander Bentley is a graduate of Algonquin College’s Scriptwriting program, now delving into the deep dark world of short stories and novels. Currently, he’s studying Web Development as a means not to starve to death while pursuing his literary passion. Despite a personal lack of pets at this point in time, he persists in prattling on about them to anyone willing to listen.
Aaron M.P. Jackson
www.middlepoet.com
Aaron is the former Poet Laureate of Jersey City, NJ, he has twice been a recipient of grants from the Puffin Foundation. His writing often reflects his dual heritage, with a focus on themes of love, urban existence and all things dog. For more, be sure to visit his website.
LISA DAY
Lisa Day is a certified IPG Master Groomer and IPG certified grooming evaluator. Presently she is the developer/ instructor of the Professional Grooming Program at Algonquin College in Ottawa and also teaches behaviour issues as part of the Vet Assistant Program. Lisa has worked with poodles in the sport of competitive obedience for over 30 years in both the USA and Canada. Her current canine partner, GMOTCh Tudorose Smooth Operator RE AM. CDX Am., better known as Shaver, is the first Standard Poodle in the history of Canadian competitive obedience to achieve the highest title offered in obedience—Grand Master Obedience Trial Champion. She has won multiple awards in the field of obedience and many of her pupils are ranked nationally.
Sonja Lishchynski
www.montecristotravels.com
Sonja has her pied-a-terre in Ottawa, but is the quintessential Bohemian, a way of life deeply rooted in her soul from a life growing up in the diplomatic core. She has married her enthusiasm for travel and her love of animals by devoting her time to demystifying travel with a small dog on her blog and other publications.
photographers AMBER ALLEN
TONYA SCHABACKER
www.londonphoDOGrapher.com
www.tonyapetphotography.com
Elizabeth Sprague
SF Pet Photography
www.lemonberrymoon.com
www.simonefauque.com
Amber, The London PhoDOGrapher, first connected photography and animals when volunteering at a shelter on a little Greek island. She noticed an inverse correlation between the amount of time spent on an animal’s advertising and the length of time that they spent in the shelter. Based in London, England, she is head-over-heels in love with this job - the pets, the people, the art, just everything!
Elizabeth is the owner of Lemonberry Moon, a photography and party planning company. She works at home where she can spend the most time with her husband, three boys and fourth little one on the way! Animals have always been very much a part of her family and she loves celebrating life’s many moments.
Tonya was able to take the two things she loves most in life—animals and photography—stack them together and make a career. Her ability to capture a dog’s unique personality is what makes her work outstanding and beautiful. She calls Austin, TX home.
Simone Fauque loves whiskers, quoting Zoolander, nutella, cappucinos, the smell of pine, Lake Massawippi, horsey noses, little stubby wagging tails, photography and her cat Oliver. A Montreal based pet photographer with a degree in professional photography from Dawson College. She is combining her love and understanding of animals, to create modern editorial style pet portraiture. pawsh-magazine.com
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Creature Comforts
FOR DOGS
Toys, Toys, Toys. Add to the magic of the holiday season with any of these hot dog toys! WOBBLE Ball
www.petplay.com
COTTON Rope Solid Twist Toy
www.harrybarker.com
GIANT Sock Dog
www.petsathome.com KONG Wubba
www.petsathome.com NYLABONE® Dura™ Toy Dental Knot Double Rope
www.petsmart.com
CORDUROY Dog Toys
www.foufoudog.com
MEGALAST Mega Bear
www.petsmart.com
GOOD Dog Ball
www.olivegreendog.com pawsh-magazine.com
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Artist Profile
Painting
Pet Personalities Written by Laura L. Benn Artwork by Melissa Smith
simple purity of a dog’s soul
Inspired by the , Melissa Smith of Dallas, Texas spends her days glued to a canvas, swirling strokes of paint into a tapestry of rich colour that brings to life the emotional depth of a canine companion.
“I was very passionate about art back in grade school,” says Melissa, who vividly recalls one of her earliest childhood works to be of a farm cat. “I later developed a need for it so great that I don’t think I could function normally without the ability to create art.” Other than bringing a sense of peace and clarity to her day-to-day life, Melissa’s animal artwork also brings tremendous joy into her beloved clients’ lives. Now the proud owner of Melissa Smith Art, a small business dedicated to memorializing pet personalities in paint that donates 10% of each portrait commission to animal charities, Melissa has transformed her self-taught talent into a beautiful, blooming career.
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Artist Profile
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Why paint dogs?
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What makes the dog an inspiring painting subject?
I paint dogs because they are my absolute favorite thing in the world! Humans can often be disappointing, but dogs are pure, innocent, simple and joyful. They teach us so much about how life should be lived. I’ve always shared my company with dogs and couldn’t imagine a life without them. It may sound weird, but I feel like I connect more with dogs than people. I just get them and they get me. Call me a crazy dog lady!
There is a sweet soul and personality that is apparent in each animal and I feel compelled to capture it on canvas as a way to honour and commemorate them. Plus dogs are a naturally happy painting subject; it lifts my spirits to be able to bring joy and smiling faces to my clients. I love working with clients on finding the perfect photo to turn into a painting and to hear the heartwarming stories of each beloved soulmate. Painting dogs is truly rewarding.
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Can you please tell me more about what you hope to achieve with your artwork?
With my business re-launch this year, I have started donating 10% proceeds from each pet portrait to a non-profit pet rescue of my client’s choice. I still wanted to keep my prices low, as I believe commissioned pet portrait artwork should be affordable to all, so right now I am donating the 10% to rescue, but plan on increasing that percentage as business grows.
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Artist Profile
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Artist Profile
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My dream is to be able to donate thousands of dollars a year to help pet rescues save more precious lives. I cannot imagine doing anything better with my artwork then for it to make a difference in the lives of these sweet souls who are reliant on us.
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What are some of your proudest accomplishments to date?
I began fostering dogs for a local Dallas, TX pet rescue called Paws In The City earlier this year. I didn’t realize there was anything missing from my life until I started fostering. Fostering has filled me with so much joy it’s sometimes overwhelming! I am hooked! It’s honestly the best thing I’ve done with my life and I couldn’t be more proud of supporting these amazing all-volunteer pet rescue organizations who do so much.
I’m now painting portraits of harder to adopt dogs in hopes of getting them more exposure. I am then gifting the portrait to whomever adopts them. Fostering and supporting pet rescues will now be something I do the rest of my life.
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What are your favorite art materials to use?
I LOVE Liquitex’s heavy bodies acrylic paints (www.liquitex.com). They are so buttery and velvety and a delight to work with. I also couldn’t live without my sta-wet handy palette (www.mastersonart.com). Just a damp sponge in a sealed plastic container keeps my acrylics workable for weeks!
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It may sound weird, but I feel like I connect more with dogs than people. I just get them and they get me. Call me a crazy dog lady!
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If you weren’t an artist, what would you be?
Definitely something pet related – probably a dog groomer or the owner of a pet supply boutique or doggy day care. I still may do the pet boutique someday...
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Is there another animal you would like to paint in future?
I would love to paint people’s pet birds. The colours are so interesting and vibrant and I think I would have a lot of fun with it!
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What do you like to do in your spare time?
Walk my dogs. No iPod. No company. Just being one with my pack, bonding, smelling the smells, hearing the birds and the wind in the trees and the sounds of the neighborhood. It is the best part of my day!
To learn more about Melissa Smith’s artwork, please visit her website at
www.melissasmithart.com.
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Melissa’s favourite pet products: 1 Deer or Elk Antlers
They are clean, have basically no smell, last long and are safer than bones because they do not splinter. Both my dogs and my fosters absolutely LOVE chewing on them! www.drsfostersmith.com
2 Ballard Design’s Trellis Pet Crate Cover
It is a practical way to beautify those ugly metal crates I have to use with my fosters. www.ballarddesigns.com
3 Pet Bow Ties Dressing up my fosters for adoption events always gets them more visibility with potential adopters. www.poshpuppyboutique.com
4 Sarah Dobranowski’s S’wag Jewelery Her dachshund jewelry is simply fun! www.etsy.com/shop/SarahDobranowski
5 Clix Car Safe Harness. The roads are scary and I want my dogs to be safe in the vehicle. I always buckle them up. www.companyofanimals.us
THIS ARTIST’S FAVOURITE COLOUR! Purple has always been my favorite color since I was a little girl. It still is my go-to today and is even my hair color most of the time!
BREED! Definitely mutts! I think mixed breeds are the best. My favorite
breed to paint would have to be smushy nose breeds like Boston Terriers or Pugs. I love painting those wrinkles!
MOVIE! “The Fountain” with Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz. It is the most thought-
provoking and emotionally draining movie I’ve ever seen with beautiful cinematography and powerful writing. It’s truly a work of art itself.
FOOD! Sushi! I could eat it every day! Raw fish – none of those California rolls, please. GUILTY PLEASURE! Dark chocolate covered almonds and champagne – yes, together. Preferably enjoyed while in a hot bubble bath reading a good book.
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PET PROJECTS
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Paw-ty
A SPORTY Written and Photographed by Elizabeth Sprague
canine soiree
Treat your dog to an active and social afternoon . with this simple yet stylish DIY
T
he furry members of our family deserve a day of celebration for all of the love, support and free floor cleaning that they do. To celebrate in true canine fashion, I designed this activitybased party for my darling Lab and Dachshund, Bumper and Oscar. We set it up at a new local dog park, invited their closest fluffy friends and encouraged new friends to join in the fun as well.
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PET PROJECTS
Frisbees and tennis balls were well received favours, as were the appropriately titled “doggy bags” full of treats. The pups enjoyed liver donuts and liver squirrel-shaped cookies, while the people ate the conspicuously labelled “Canine Cookies” that were actually for humans. Taking a bit of extra time to add stylish doggie details to table items, such as bottles of water, will take your party from good to great.
Apple slices and carrot sticks were put out as a healthier snack for those pups and people who were watching their waistlines and the “popsicles” were an instant favourite – perfect for cooling down and bonus, super simple to make!
You can’t have a puppy party without peanut butter on a spoon! A simple and beloved snack for dogs of all ages!
When hosting a paw-ty it is important to have options for your guests. Slicing up fresh fruit and veggies, such as apple slices and chunky carrot sticks, for dogs and people adds a great pop of colour to your table and supplies a healthy low-cal snack. Serve in a fancy plastic glass for added effect.
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Dog-friendly popsicles are a delightfully easy treat to bestow upon your best canine chum. Simply blend cottage cheese with a little peanut butter, poured it into a small dixie cup and stick a milkbone in the middle. Freeze and enjoy!
Be consistent with your dog-themed party by making the human cookies canine-centric too!
Send your guests home with a doggy bag designed specifically for dogs. Treats, paw-ty hats, toys and love can be wrapped up and enjoyed later once the party is over.
However, it was the meatloaf cupcakes that became toted as the creme de la creme of the party and eagerly gobbled up by pups all round. The treat table was pulled together with a few precious details, such as brightly coloured containers, strategically placed paw prints and a few stylish labels, making this paw-ty a parking success.
You too can spoil your doggy darling and celebrate their canine ways with this DIY gathering that is guaranteed to impress. Visit LemonBerry Moon’s Etsy shop for the complete DIY paw-ty kit, complete with printables!
www.etsy.com/shop/LemonberryMoon
{Vendor credits} Party Styling and Photography by Lemonberry Moon www.lemonberrymoon.com Printable Party Labels by Forever Your Prints www.foreveryourprints.com Canine Cookies by Katie’s Creative Baking www.etsy.com/shop/katieduran Fondant Cupcake Toppers by Lena’s Cakes www.etsy.com/shop/LenasCakes pawsh-magazine.com
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PET PROJECTS
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Meatloaf Pupcakes With Mashed Potato Frosting Ingredients (makes 12) 1.5lbs. ground meat (beef or turkey) 1/2 cup oats 2 eggs 1/2 cup shredded zucchini or carrots or both!) Directions 1. Mix everything together in a large bowl. It is easiest to just use your hands to mix everything really well. Just don’t lick your fingers, this is not the kind of cupcake batter you eat, although your pup will probably disagree. 2. Form large meatballs and place in a regular sized cupcake tin. Bake at 350F for 15-25 minutes or until your meat is cooked through. 3. Remove from over and let cool completely.
Mashed Potato Frosting Ingredients 2 to 3 pounds of potatoes Bacon bits Directions 1. Wash and peel potatoes. Chop them into 1 inch pieces. 2. Boil for 20 minutes or until fork tender. 3. Strain your potatoes and add them back into the hot pot (no water) 4. Add 8oz. cream cheese, 1/2 cup butter and 1/4 cup milk. Using a mixer (careful, it’s hot!) mix well. 5. Carefully pipe onto meatloaf ‘cake.’ Top with bacon bit sprinkles and enjoy!
TIP: You want your frosting to be soft enough to work with, but stiff enough to hold it’s shape.
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A life
of service: What it means to be a Canadian special skills service dog Written and Photographed by Laura L. Benn
going to bed worried
that you might Imagine not hear the smoke detector go off in the middle of the night. Imagine being anxious that you might slip and fall in the bath and nobody will hear your cries for help. Imagine dropping your keys and not being physically able to pick them up, leaving you stranded in your own home.
T
hese are just a few of the everyday concerns that Canadians with physical disabilities must face – scenarios that most of us wouldn’t think twice about.
To help make lives like this easier, The Lions Foundation of Canada based in Oakville, Ontario trains special skills service dogs. According to Julie Gaboury, a special skills dog trainer with the foundation for the past 15 years, a special skills dog is specifically trained to work with people who have physical disabilities, while the more commonly known guide dogs are trained to work with the visually impaired.
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But how exactly do you train a dog to open doors, push buttons, retrieve phones and raise the alarm if needed – among other impressive skills? As I gather my notes and set up my recorder, Gaboury enters the room in a wheelchair with a young Black Labrador called Laser by her side – a pup in training for this very important job. She and Laser are here to show and tell me all about a life of service.
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Where do service dogs come from? The Lions Foundation of Canada operates an impeccable in-house breeding program out of their Bresleau, Ontario facility, focusing primarily upon their main breeds Golden Labrador Retrievers, Black Labrador Retrievers, and Standard and Miniature Poodles.
The reason for breeding in-house is quite simple really – efficiency. Being able to know a puppy’s genetic and behavioural background means trainers have a better sense of what kind of dog they will be working with. “It’s about preserving our puppies’ health and temperaments so that they can become the best service dogs possible,” explains Gaboury. “For example, from Laser’s litter, four of them went into special skills training and four went into our autism program. It was a very impressive litter!”
The early months Puppies destined for a career helping others through the Lions Foundation of Canada spend their entire first year in carefully approved foster homes. This is designed as an opportunity to learn polite house manners, such as not to jump on the furniture and not to eat people food. They also learn how to be crate-trained in a positive manner and above all, become well socialized. The puppies will go everywhere with their foster families from public transit outings, to bustling shopping centres, to cafe patios, professional offices and more. “Our breeding stock live in foster homes,” explains Natalie Moncur, Communications Manager for the foundation. “When it is time to breed females, we bring them to our facility for stud services and they come back to us again to have their puppies. Once the puppies are weaned, the mothers return to their foster homes and the pups are in turn placed in their suitable foster homes.”
“They go everywhere and overcome all sorts of obstacles, like escalators and buses, so when they come back to us for further training they are already conditioned to be comfortable in a variety of settings,” says Gaboury. “It helps them to be confident in their training and they adopt something of a ‘been there done that’ attitude when presented with new environments.”
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Life after fostering Once permanently back at the Oakville training centre, foster dogs are thoroughly assessed physically, emotionally and mentally. “We like to see where they are with their training and more importantly who they are to determine which program they would be best suited for, if any,” says Gaboury. The Lions Foundation of Canada operates six different dog assisted programs; seizure response, Autism assistance, diabetic alert, hearing ear, canine vision and special skills. Before being placed in a program, dogs have their eyes checked and their hips and elbows x-rayed to ensure they are in tip-top shape. General physicals are conducted as well by veterinarians. When they have an official clean bill of health it’s time to start school. Typically, a trainer like Gaboury at the Oakville facility will work with eight different dogs at any given time. As they progress with each dog, they sometimes find that certain canine individuals are not necessarily the best fit for the program they were originally recalled for. For example, if a dog was recalled for special skills service, but is uncomfortable around wheelchairs, that dog will be transferred to another program where it can shine. On the rare occasion when a dog does not demonstrate any natural talent for any of the programs, The Lions Foundation of Canada will adopt them out into loving, carefully screened homes as pets.
Kennel manners One of the earliest lessons a special skills service dog needs to learn is kennel manners. The Lions Foundation of Canada enforces a policy
of two-by-two kennelling, meaning that the dogs are kennelled in pairs so they have a buddy to hang out with when they aren’t working. “Kennel manners means teaching the dogs that when I open the kennel door they don’t run out,” explains Gaboury. “Instead they learn to wait calmly for a collar to be placed on them and then for a request to come out.” More advanced lessons that need to be learned are similarly focused around obedience. “For special skills dogs, we focus upon their retrieving skills and determine if they enjoy picking things up and carrying them around naturally,” continues Gaboury. “We also asses dogs for sensitivity at this stage, because we want dogs who want to please their people and want to work. It makes a big difference to have an engaged pupil.”
Distraction training Basic commands that your own dog at home might be familiar with such as sit, stay, down and heel are also taught – the difference perhaps being that these lessons are continually reinforced and rewarded with positivity to make the commands second nature. “Distraction work is also the most challenging lesson to teach,” says Gaboury. “It basically is teaching a dog to focus on their person above all else when they are wearing their working harness, even if a squirrel runs by out of the blue. It means total focus while they are in the harness.” Almost as if on cue, young Laser decides to comically sprawl out on his back by Gaboury’s side as though asking for a belly rub. She calmly and kindly corrects his behaviour and has him return to an attentive sitting position – just one of
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the many examples of how training these special skills dogs is a constant task of positively reinforcing desired behaviours. To help make a dog’s distraction training successful, the Lions Foundation of Canada asks for the public’s help. This is why it is common courtesy to not touch, speak to or engage with a service dog who is wearing his working harness. “Of course, these dogs are young and social,” says Gaboury. “We want them to be friendly and sometimes a dog will sneak a kiss while wearing his working harness. Things like that will happen. It’s a matter of maintaining training and constantly correcting behaviour in a kind yet assertive manner to ensure he has total focus.”
Moncur adds that due to the fact that dogs spend so much time with trainers day in day out, a lot of their training maintenance will often come down to their bond and loyalty to that person. “It usually takes about six months to a year for a dog and a client to really truly bond once they have been teamed up,” she says. “The more work and consistency you express with your dog, the better they will be at their job overall.”
Advanced training A great deal of positive reinforcement training comes down to food, admits Gaboury, especially when working with Black Labs, like Laser, who are extremely food motivated. “Using their love of treats, we will teach dogs more and more challenging tasks,” she continues. “For example, a dog will learn not to lunge for food that drops on the floor. They will learn how to carry and retrieve tricky everyday objects such as keys, credit cards and phones on command. We start retrieving training with a soft dumbbell, because it is easy and comfortable for a dog to pick up and then we progress.” Special skills dogs are also taught how to bark on command in case of emergency and how to open and close doors, fridges and even ovens. “The only doors they can’t do are ones with doorknobs,” laughs Gaboury. “Unfortunately they don’t have hands.”
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Being paired with a person in need When a dog graduates from his or her training they are paired with a client in need. Clients are invited to the Oakville centre to attend an intensive three week training program. “At this point it is about training the person how to honour and respect the dog’s training,” says Gaboury. “We usually don’t bring the dogs out at first, because there is too much excitement. Instead we work with the people, prepare them a little and then conduct the introductions.” During this three week program, clients stay on-site at the Oakville centre in modern hotellike rooms. They are then paired with a dog that best suits them and their needs and they begin their journey of becoming the primary caregiver. “The idea of this program is to give clients all the basic skills they need to create a long and lasting working relationship with their service dog,” says Gaboury. About six weeks after a dog has been placed, a Lions Foundation of Canada representative will visit the home to make sure everything is going well and to further assist with the dog’s adjustment. “We stay in touch by phone and email over the years and touch base at least once a year,” says Gaboury. “But we are always available for help and support in case a person moves or their situation changes. We also encourage clients to reach out to us with good news as well so we really remain a part of the dogs’ lives.”
The Lions Foundation of Canada retains ownership of all of their dogs for their whole lifespan, to make sure the animals are being properly cared for. “All clients sign a contract and must submit a health exam of the dog every six months,” continues Moncur. “This helps us track the dogs’ weight and health and further helps us to stay in contact with our animals to ensure they are being well-cared for.”
Canine retirement A special skills service dog has a lifetime career. They typically graduate at the age of two years old; although some dogs, like Laser, will complete their training at 16 months. Most dogs are then retired when they hit 10 or 11 years of age; although if health concerns arise they will be retired earlier. “Some people say, ‘Awww, the poor dogs work their entire lives,’ but it is actually a lifestyle they enjoy,” says Gaboury. “If you think about it, a pet dog sits at home waiting for you all day when you go to work. These guys go everywhere with their people and always have something to do – they are always engaged, stimulated and proud of their work. They live very fulfilled lives – and let’s not forget, they do get to play when not wearing their working harness.” Depending upon the program, some retired dogs will remain with their paired person or be adopted by a family member so they can stay close to their human counterpart. If a person is unable to care for a retired dog and a new working dog, the retiring dog will return to The
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Lions Foundation of Canada facility and be adopted out to a loving home. “Addressing a dog’s retirement plan really is a case by case matter,” says Moncur.
How to help Something not commonly known about The Lions Foundation of Canada is that they do not receive any government funding and they provide all of their dogs at no cost to people in need. “The purpose of our foundation is to help people,” says Moncur. “We depend greatly upon corporate donors and public donations in order to continue with our work.” The organization’s unique sponsorship program allows a donor to sponsor a specific dog team in a specific program. A set monetary amount goes towards raising and training those dogs and the donor can attend the graduation, meet the team and see first hand what their donation has helped to achieve. If you cannot make a donation of that nature, the Lions Foundation of Canada always welcomes volunteers to come and walk the dogs, groom the dogs or be cuddle buddies to further enrich their canine pupils’ lives. “You can be a dog lover or just someone who wants to help other people – or both – to really make a profound difference,” says Moncur. “Our dogs help our clients with medical conditions feel safe, secure, and confident. But our dogs also help to breakdown social barriers, because most people have had a dog that they’ve cared about at some point and can therefore better relate to our clients.”
For more information about The Lions Foundation of Canada or to make a donation, please visit www.dogguides.com or contact 1-800-768-3030.
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Creature Comforts
Happy Eco
New Year!
1 Loo Crew Bathroom Kit $14
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The multiple scents in this plant-based, non-toxic bathroom cleaner kit while transform your bathroom into a refreshing oasis of cleanly charm. Squash bacteria and any unwanted smelliness in one swoop. www.methodhome.com
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2 Hawaiian Ruby Guava $22
Made completely from vegetable soy wax, these lead-free wick candles recreate the heavenly aroma of a tropical paradise right in the comfort of your own home. www.pacificaperfume.com
3 Bamboo Grunge Buster (price varies)
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Tackle stubborn grout and tile build up with this tough bristled brush. Made with bamboo, a renewable resource that is naturally anti-bacterial, this brush can help make household chores a little brighter. www.fullcirclehome.com
3
4
Organic Alhambra Shams $22 each
e m
These lovely rosy shams are a lovely way to dress up any bedroom. Made from 100% organic cotton, these machine-washable, 200-thread count shams combine green living with comfort.
www.westelm.com
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6” Heart Shape Plates $18/set of 6
Ho
Bring a little love into your home decor by showing a love for the planet. Hand-crafted from fallen palm leaves, these elegant little heart-shaped, chemical-free plates are ideal for serving up appetizers, desserts and tasty bite-sized finger foods.
www.leafware.com
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Keep that doggy-breath in check with this cruelty-free spray. Not only does it tackle problematic plaque, but it keeps your pup’s breath smelling lovely too. www.burtsbeespets.com
7 BecoBone $15
Made from an innovative new material called rice husk rubber, these bouncy colourful bone-shaped toys are natural and non-toxic. Nothing but good clean fun! www.becothings.com
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Hemp Leash with Fleece-Lined Handle $24
ts
Pe
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Multicare Dental Spray with Mint (see website for prices)
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Durable, vibrant and comfortable to hold, this hemp leash adds a bright splash of eco-friendly style to the morning walk. www.planetdog.com
9 Rectangular Greener Pup Bed $65
Greener Pup dog beds provide your pupster with eco-friendly comfort and style. This earth print dog bed is perfect for the worldly pooch who loves to explore and needs a good snooze after a day of adventure.
www.greenerpup.com
10 Track Jacket for Dogs $63
These stylish sweaters are made from a polypropylene fabric that can be recycled at the end of its fashionable life. Made in the USA, odor resistant and machine-washable – win, win, win again!
www.westpawdesign.com
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9 10
Put your best paw forward in the new year and make a resolution to live life a little greener. We’ve rounded up a few of the best eco-friendly products to help you embrace an eco-conscious lifestyle. 11
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11 Peaches & Crème Moisturizer $12
Created from all-natural fruit acids, this silky fresh moisturizer glides upon all skin types to gently nourish. Enjoy the refreshing peachy scent and luxurious essential oils. Not tested on animals. www.kissmyface.com
12 Jumbo Satsuma Shower Gel $22
Lavish your skin with the exotic citrus scent that is satsuma. Not tested on animals and bursting with Community Fair Trade soya oil, this shower gel will delight all of your senses. Not tested on animals.
www.bodyshop.ca
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This rich, hydrating, hand-crafted lip balm works wonders on dry and chapped lips. Jojoba oil soothes and softens, while gentle shea butter helps to repair damaged skin. The satin-feel of natural, healthy lips will have you grinning from ear to ear. Made in Toronto, Canada. Not tested on animals. www.crawfordskincare.com
14 Sweet Tart Eyeshadows $25
B
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Crafted in Vancouver by Emmy-award winning makeup artist Joanne Fowler this rose pink organic eyeshadow is pretty, Eco-conscious and romantic. Free of harmful, damaging preservatives, such as parabens, phthalates, gluten, talc and mineral oil, it is designed to highlight natural beauty using natural, organic ingredients and the highest quality of richly pigmented minerals. Not tested on animals. www.sapphocosmetics.com
15 Green Beaver Shampoo $11 eacH
Treat your hair to a whole new nourishing experience with any of Green Beaver’s natural shampoos. Relish captivating scents such as Fresh Mint, Lavender Rosemary and Cranberry Delight (perfect for the holidays!) Not tested on animals. www.greenbeaver.com
od y
drobe
r a W
13 Super Moisturizing Mint-Vanilla Lip Balm $5
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16 The Artist Sunglasses $120
Produced in Caledon, Ontario (yay Canada!), these stylish sassy sunglasses are made from sustainable bamboo, proving that great fashion can be earth-friendly too. www.botaneycoeyewear.com
17 Rubis handbag $100
This bright red ravishing handbag is ideal for toting all of your precious valuables around about town. Plus it is made from 100% vegan materials. Mind – officially – blown! www.nella-bella.com
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18 Simple shoes $40
Casual, comfortable and cute make these cosy loafers a great option for walking the dog. Biodegradable and made from eco-certified suede, this loafer is a lovely closet option. www.notjustpretty.com
Chrysoprase Attraction 19 Pyrrha Charm/Pendant $42
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Brought forth from reclaimed sterling silver, these pieces make a very pretty pendant for any occasion. Produced in Vancouver, Canada to promote healthy body and mind, these pretty pieces of jewelry locally produced in a green fashion. www.notjustpretty.com
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20 Silver nuvola piccolo ring $115
Made from mostly recycled gold, Kokku jewelry embraces an eco-conscious mantra in all of its designs. Celebrate the beauty of the earth by wearing a green ring. www.kokku.co.uk
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Feature
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save money How to
in the new year
Written by Laura L. Benn Photography by Tonya Schabacker
spoil your dog
5 money-saving tips that will help you this year without breaking the bank.
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Feature
1
Divide and conquer
Typically, larger bags of kibble are less expensive per volume unit. Instead of buying an individual smaller bag of kibble each month, try purchasing a single larger bag of food. Divide the large bag into smaller, air tight containers and save a few pennies each month. You can use simple plastic containers for storage or choose from any number of stylish dog food canisters that will look smashing in your kitchen, pantry or hallway.
2
Swap out the fun
We all like to spoil our pupsters with lots of fun toys, but the adorable collection of plush toys, chew toys and bouncy balls can start to add up in price. And at the end of the day, our dogs rarely play with all of them. So roundup your best friends and their furkids, bring along your gently used toys and a few tasty snacks and have a toy swap party. Not only will your dogs get an afternoon of socializing, but they will go home with a bag of new goodies – they don’t need to know they are second hand.
The benefit of baking treats at home is that you can make them in bulk and reduce cost.
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3
Cover up!
4
Run, run as fast as you can
5
Treat ya self
Often when it comes time to replace your dog’s bed, it is a matter of looking dingy, stained and rather dishevelled. Usually, however, the actual pillow base is in good form. So, wander over to your local fabric shop and find some durable, pretty new threads to recover your old dog bed with. Suddenly, it is brand new at half the cost.
When the new year hits, many pet parents decide that it is high-time to join a gym. But instead of doling out membership fees, why not invest in your own independent running regime with your favourite canine pal? All it will cost you is a pair of new sneakers and the same amount of time you would have spent at the gym. Plus, bonus, you will get to exercise your dog and spend more time with them.
Dog treats are a must in the world of pet parenthood, but if you’re looking to save a few pennies in the new year why not consider baking your own wholesome goodies? The benefit of baking treats at home is that you can make them in bulk and reduce cost.
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WORKING WITH PETS
Top do g s ! Written by Laura L. Benn
minds in the pet world
PAWSH chats with some of the best and brightest creative about life, business and chasing dreams!
Dog Milk
www.dog-milk.com
Name: Capree Kimball Business: Managing Editor at Dog Milk Furry sidekicks: Wrigley -- a (nearly) six-year-old Miniature Schnauzer and Smash, a four-year-old Shih Tzu. Educational background: I have a BFA in photography, which has come in handy with all those Instagram photos I take of my dogs. Best thing about being a dog blogger: You mean, other than looking at squee-inducing photos of dogs and puppies all day? Hmm… I’d have to say meeting other crazy dog people and their pups (whether online or in person)!
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Why do you believe blogging about dogs is important? I feel that being a pet parent/dog-obsessed-human is really a kind of lifestyle and it’s thrilling to help people find products or inspiration, through blogging, that improves their relationship with their dog, their dog’s quality of life, and everyone’s overall happiness! How do you decide what to write about on Dog Milk? Everything we share on Dog Milk fits under the (broad) umbrella of a modern, contemporary lifestyle and aesthetic: products that are well-designed, innovative, or that uniquely solve a problem; dog-themed artwork and photography that is visually
Photo credit: Megan Stay
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WORKING WITH PETS
interesting; small, independent designers dedicated to redefining what dog products can be, etc.
What advice would you give pet parents when shopping for their furkids? Invest in quality pieces where you can. Meaning, if your dog is determined to chew through every bed you buy, but treats their food bowl as a sacred object, spring for the cheap bed but have some fun with a high-quality food dish that shows off your (and their) personality. If your pups ran the office, how would your job be different? I imagine that there would be daily team meetings dedicated to belly rubs, mandatory treat breaks every hour, and a monthly bacon bonus for top nappers.
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Photo credit: Capree Kimball
What advice would you give pet bloggers who are just starting out? Take some time to discover your own unique voice/angle/aesthetic. Are you just over-the-moon for black and white dogs? Maybe your blog could be all about sharing the best black and white dog products or featuring black and white pet photography. Do you love dogs and fashion? Consider combining the two in a unique way. In a sea of blogs, it’s really important (now more than ever) to create your own niche and angle -- and to do it well!
Photo credit: Karin newstrom
favourite pet products right now Capree’s 5
I love all the toys from 1 Petprojekt – they’re great quality and so well-designed. I’m also majorly crushing on this metallic patterned bowl from 2 Waggo (all of their products are awesome, though!). And this leash from 3 SeeScoutSleep would look pretty stellar hung from these walnut and brass leash hooks from 4 Go! Pet Design when not in use. Meanwhile, I might have to steal this awesome pet bed from 5 LoveThyBeast for myself – they make a human-sized version, right?
1
2 3 4
5
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WORKING WITH PETS
FouFouDog
www.foufoudog.com
Name: Cheryl Ng Business: Founder and CEO of FouFouDog Furry sidekick: Ernie, a 10-year-old Maltese Company mission: To create stylish pet apparel and accessories that offer flavourful functionality to owners. Your dog, in many ways, is an extension of yourself and a representation of you. So by providing them with cosy, functional outwear that changes every season FouFouDog helps make a statement and celebrates great style. Design inspiration: I find my inspiration from all sorts of sources. Lately I’ve been loving Instagram and Pinterest, because both are very visual platforms and a great way for creative people to showcase their work almost instantaneously. I also pay a lot of attention to human fashion each season and am very in tune with celebrity styles, as well as home decor trends, colours and concepts. By being aware of current trends, we can take that inspiration and put our own stamp on it. We are trendsetters as a result. Best business advice for others: Research your industry and know your competition so that you can do something different. Focus on doing something different. Network. Keep up with trends. Get your designs and ideas patented. Attend tradeshows and events to learn, see
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what’s out there and connect with your customers. Even if you can’t afford a booth or table at an event, get a pass and walk it – you can learn a lot by just being immersed in your industry. Biggest dream for FouFouDog: Like any business owner, we want to grow and get into mass production so that we can reach more people and diversify our lines. FouFou also has a sister branch FouFouPet which is more focused on pet wellness products, so we would really like to develop and nuture that too. Greatest accomplishment to date: The business as a whole is one of my greatest accomplishments to date. To have made all of this happen with just a highschool diploma and a vision has been an awesome experience. Plus my mother, sister and cousin work for the company now which is pretty special. We also do a lot of private label design for major lifestyle companies such as TJX, PJS Pets, PetValu and many, many others. Best piece of advice ever received: Be original.
Some of FouFou Dog’s latest designs!
Photo credit: Laura L. Benn pawsh-magazine.com
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WORKING WITH PETS
Higgins Would Be Proud Name: Fang Yu and Ben Egnal Business: Co-founders of Higgins Would Be Proud Furry sidekick: Higgins, a 9-year-old black pug Company mission: To build a socially conscious clothing label that puts an awesome shirt on your back and a smile on your face. We do this by partnering with a Canadian canine charity, ElderDog, who provides aid to older dogs in medical need and support to senior citizens who have difficulty caring for their dogs. 10% of every purchase from our shop goes to their cause. Hardest business lesson faced: The hardest part of running a business that is e-commerce would be marketing it. We don’t have the luxury of a physical space to show our wares, so we have to find other ways to attract people to us. Biggest dream for HWBP: At this point, we would be incredibly excited to see strangers on the street wearing our clothing! We’d also like to develop our product line so that there’s more variety in our inventory... but perhaps our biggest dream would be for others to see how awesome Higgins is.
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www.hwbp.ca
Best business advice for others: First and foremost, make sure it is something you’re passionate about. When nights get long and deadlines get tight your passion will carry you through. Also, make sure that you have plenty of ideas to market your brand. If you can do this as you’re developing your product, you may have eager fans waiting even before you’re open for business. And of course, whatever city or town your in will have a pet community, make sure to reach out to them! Greatest accomplishment to date? We’re very happy with the fact that we’re open for business! Coming from design school backgrounds and not knowing business 101 does mean we’re learning as we go for a lot of things, but at the same time we’ve discovered that Ontario is a great place to be an entrepreneur. Also, we do feel like our debut collection is small, but strong. Best piece of advice ever received: You can never be sure of a sale until you’ve been paid.
Photo credit: James Ramsay
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FEATURE
with your dog Moving to Europe
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Written by Sonja Lishchynski Photography by Simone Fauque
Ah, Europe. The food, the history,the abundance of fascinating culture – it’s enough to make anyone fall in love with the idea of packing up house and moving permanently to the hustle and bustle of a modern European metropolis. But how does one immigrate to Europe without leaving your beloved dog back home? Seasoned world traveler, Sonja Lishchynski, frequently embarks (you know this pun is completely intended!) upon international adventures with her sweet long-haired chihuahua, Monte Cristo, safely tucked in along with her carry-on luggage. Having visited more than half a dozen different countries with a dog in tow, Sonja shares her personal tips for moving to Europe with fluffypants so that you too can experience all that Europe has to offer – .
together
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FEATURE
D
o you dream of moving to Europe, but don’t want to leave your furry companion behind? It’s really not a problem so long as you leave yourself enough time to have necessary physical exams and paperwork completed ahead of time. But let’s get into the details, shall we? Here is what I’ve learned from my experiences traveling with Mr. Monte Cristo.
First things first, it is important to note that the countries of Europe are divided into two camps: those that belong to the European Union (EU) and those that do not. The requirements for moving to an EU nation with your pet are straightforward. The requirements for moving to a non-EU nation vary.
Be mindful of your breed Regardless of which country you are moving to, your first task is to ensure that your dog’s breed is not banned. Unfortunately, discrimination persists against certain breeds, especially the Bull Terriers. In addition, it is almost impossible to transport flat nosed breeds such as bulldogs and pugs and nearly all airlines have restrictions on this. So be mindful of your breed. Assuming your pet is not on a list of banned breeds, the process of moving your cat or dog to a European country is relatively simple. As is so often the case, it’s mostly a matter of having completed the right paperwork.
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Pet immigration to EU Countries Countries that belong to the EU share one common form for pet immigration: EU Form 998. It’s a straightforward document that you can acquire from one of three places; the embassy for the country you are moving to, a local office of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The form lists very clearly what requirements you need to meet in order to immigrate with your pet, and honestly, the requirements are not that cumbersome.
When you begin working on the form, be sure to start with specifying whether you are flying with a small dog (under 13 pounds) as carry-on or bringing your dog as cargo. There are small differences in how you complete the form depending upon which category your dog fits. In a nutshell, your pet needs to have the following: 1. MICROCHIP: An ISO pet microchip inserted. If your pet’s microchip is not ISO 11784/11785 compliant, you will have to bring your own microchip scanner with you or have another chip inserted. Given how easy it is to have a microchip inserted under your pet’s skin, that’s probably the easier and less expensive option. 2. VACCINATIONS: To be vaccinated for rabies and various other diseases (parvo, kennel cough, etc) at least 21 days and not more than one year prior to travel. If your animal was vaccinated before it was fitted with a microchip, your pet will have to be vaccinated again after the microchip is inserted for the vaccination data to be registered in the chip.
3. A VET REFERENCE: A CFIA (or USDA) accredited veterinarian needs to complete the EU Form 998 in English and the language of your EU point of entry. Note that the form must be completed for the first EU country you will enter, which may not be the EU country that is your final destination. For example, let’s say you are moving to the Netherlands, but your flight is taking you via Paris first. In this case, you’ll need to ensure your EU form 998 is in English/French and not English/Dutch. Once you and your pet clear customs in your EU point of entry, you are in! Your requirements are met for entry into any other EU country. There are some nominal fees involved, but the process takes little time. Do ensure you’ve left enough time to allow for some
What’s in an EU Passport? • •
• •
•
Name and address of animal owner Description of the animal (breed, sex, age, color) Number of microchip Date of the rabies vaccination, period of validity of the vaccination, type of vaccine, name of manufacturer and production number Address and signature of the veterinarian
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FEATURE
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unexpected steps, such as needing to split vaccines over two appointments a few weeks apart or allowing time for shipment of the correct microchip. You can speed the process up a little by having your own vet complete the form and arranging to just have the CFIA/USDA vet stamp it. There is one exception to the normal process for pet immigration: unvaccinated puppies and kittens less than three months old may enter a EU country as is.
A word on the EU pet passport program If you are going to be living in the EU for an extended period with plans to travel to other EU countries, then once you’ve settled in, get a EU Pet Passport for your pet. European Union pet owners are now required to have pet passports when traveling with their animals. The passports, which are required to allow an animal to enter an EU country, are to include the pet’s microchip or tattoo number for identification in addition to other important information. One aim of the European Pet Travel Scheme, which covers cats, dogs and even ferrets, rabbits and rodents, is to provide proof that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies and treated for ticks and tapeworms. Therefore, the Pet Passport includes records of all vaccinations and clinical examinations. When traveling, the pet owner must ensure that the rabies vaccination in the passport is valid or else renew the pet’s vaccination.
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FEATURE
3 airline approved pet carriers Immigrating to Non-EU countries This is where things can become complicated. Normally, an International Certificate of Good Health, which i cludes all the information normally found in EU Form 998, is sufficient for entry into a non-EU country. However, you will need to contact the country’s embassy to determine whether they have any other requirements. Some countries have adopted a pet passport program and made that document a requirement to enter their country. The biggest difference between a pet passport and an International Certificate of Good Health is that the pet passport has a photo ID. Nonetheless, Canada and the US do not have a pet passport program. There are options for ordering pet passports online, or you can plan your travel so that you enter an EU country first to then acquire a pet passport there before traveling on further.
Travel to the UK Even though a member of the EU, the United Kingdom has its own quirks when it comes to traveling with a pet. Until January 2012, the rules for bringing in a pet were unbelievably stringent. The process even included a lengthy quarantine.
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Sherpa American Airlines Carrier
www.sherpapet.com
Bergan Sig Comfort C
www.bergan
While that requirement has now been lifted, the UK still will not allow a pet to be flown in. Instead, you must bring the pet into the UK by train or ferry from another European country. The UK also requires that in addition to the paperwork and information for pet immigration to the EU, you must also provide proof that your dog has been given a tapeworm treatment. Your vet must record the following details in your dog’s pet passport or certificate: •
•
•
the name and manufacturer of the product used to treat your dog the date and time your dog was treated, and the vet’s stamp and signature.
The treatment for tapeworm must have contained praziquantel or an equivalent as the treatment’s active ingredient. Interestingly, you don’t need to treat your dog for tape-
Things to keep in mind when purchasing a cabin-friendly container for your pet. •
•
gnature Series Carrier
ndirectdelivery.com
SturdiBag Pet Carrier
www.sturdiproducts.com
worm if you’re coming directly to the UK from Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway. Who knew?
Pet-friendly transportation options Odds are that unless you are traveling on the only pet friendly cruise ship, The Queen Elizabeth II, you will be flying into Europe. That means you’ll need an airline approved Pet Carrier.
•
•
•
•
Pets in Cargo To fly a pet in cargo, the airline will insist that you acquire and use a special traveling container for the animal. The container must be ventilated and allow your pet room to move and lie down. You must label your pet’s kennel carefully and prominently so that your pet and the kennel won’t get lost during transit. Ensure your pet has adequate food and water
•
The container must be large enough for the animal(s) to stand, turn around, and lie down. Although not all airlines require this, some are now requiring steel crate hardware instead of plastic fasteners. So be sure to check with your airline before traveling. You must be able to provide food and water from the outside of the container without opening the door. For international travel, the container must have ventilation on all sides. The container must have stickers on the top and sides stating “LIVE ANIMAL” in letters at least one inch tall. For cross-Atlantic flights, your dog carrier may not have wheels. If the container has wheels, they should be removed or taped securely so that the kennel cannot roll. The container must be identified with your pet’s name and the owner’s contact information. The best way to do this is to attach your pet’s information to the outside of the crate. Also attach an extra copy of your pet’s health certificate to the container.
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FEATURE
for the journey. It is rarely recommended to sedate a pet; speak to your vet before deciding to do so.
Important flight details 1. Check that the airfreight facility will be open when you are scheduled to arrive so you may claim your pet as soon as possible. Ensure your flight times and the facility’s opening hours are in synch. 2. Transport of snub nose dogs, such as boxers, pugs, bulldogs and Pekinese, in hot season is not recommended. These animals have difficulty maintaining a normal body temperature in hot weather. In fact, many airlines will not accept these breeds at any time of year. 3. Did you know that all staff are working and liaison is easier all along the route if you ship your pet on a weekday as opposed to a weekend.
Generally, an airline will only allow one pet per passenger and a maximum of two pets per cabin. The container for the pet must fit under the seat in front of you and must have a waterproof bottom, as well as adequate ventilation.
Be knowledgeable upon arrival Not all countries see pets the way we do in North America. Depending on where you are going in Europe, you may be surprised, disappointed or annoyed by the change in approach. Some countries such as France and Italy are very pet friendly; other countries such as Turkey, for example, can be less so. Do your homework and educate yourself prior to your departure.
Pets in the Cabin
Know the rules! Most European cities charge an annual dog tax; prices vary city to city and by the number of dogs. Dogs must also be registered with the local town hall and the municipal tax office upon arrival. You can arrange to do this in writing (letter form) or in person, but rarely by email as an original signature is required.
If your pet is a small dog (under 15 pounds) and you are booked for a flight of less than 10 hours, many airlines will allow you to take your dog on board in the cabin. Except, remember, the UK
Many larger European cities now have very hefty fines if you do not pick-up after your pet. Don’t learn the hard way: keep your good manners and continue to poop-and-scoop wherever you go.
4. Some airlines restrict the number of animals on a flight, so the more advanced notice you give the airline, the better.
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Local pet services All European cities have vets and animal hospitals. Some even have pet travel clinics! These clinics often provide services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in as many as five languages, including English. A quick Internet search will often provide you with at least one Englishspeaking vet to start with. Your local embassy will also be able to assist with this.
Pet insurance Another important consideration to keep in mind before moving to Europe with your pet is pet insurance. Pet insurance can cover much of the expense of unexpected vet bills incurred during injury or illness. Some of the things to consider when choosing pet insurance include: •
•
•
•
•
Does the policy cover all chronic, congenital and hereditary conditions? Is there a time limit on treatment per condition? Is there a dollar limit on treatment per condition? Are there flexible coverage options to fit your budget and needs? How well established is the company? How is it rated?
What to do if you lose your pet while immigrating? Pet gone astray? This is where your pet’s microchip requirement comes into play. Nearly all shelters and animal clinics will sweep an animal for its information to ensure your pet’s microchip is up to date with the correct information. If in doubt, speak to your vet before traveling and have the chip updated to reflect your new contact information overseas. Also, register your pet with the National Chip Database in order to give your companion the best chance possible of being reunited with you should the worst case scenario happen.
Bon voyage! Moving to Europe with your dog, or even visiting with your dog, may seem like a lot of work, but in reality, it isn’t all that bad. I regularly travel with Monte Cristo between Canada, the US and Europe and assure you that, although it may seem daunting, the process is actually painless, albeit a little time consuming. In the end, you’ll be glad to have your furry friend by your side while exploring a brand new country and lifestle. There is no need to leave him or her behind.
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Funky and fantastic pet photography for cute critters
elizabethandjane.ca
photography
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Creature Comforts
Keep Cozy
this season with any or all of these adorably stylish finds! Liz Claiborne Long-Sleeve Dog Sweater
www.jcpenney.com
Flussio Messenger Bag
www.aldoshoes.com
J’adore Les Chiens Pillow
www.romyandjacob.com
Pet Lover Clutch
www.romyandjacob.com
Meggabeat iPhone® 5 amplifier
www.cb2.com
Jennifer Rain Boots
www.kamik.com
Charity Mug – ASPCA Dogs
www.westelm.com
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Martha Stewart Pets™ 3-Piece Bowl Set for Dogs
www.petsmart.com
Canvas Messenger Dog Bag Tote
www.mungoandmaud.com
Cross Bones Fetch Toy
www.fuzzyard.com
Swanfield Liberty Print Dog Lead Blue
www.lovemydog.co.uk
Martha Stewart Pets Snow Fleece
www.petsmart.com
Pardon Me Poo Bags
www.waggo.com
Cafe Dog Biscuits
www.harrybarker.com pawsh-magazine.com
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Behavior
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Bite
Before the Understanding Canine Aggression Written and photographed by Laura L. Benn
Too often a dog snaps once and is then forever labelled as aggressive – a word that when applied to an animal instantly suggests that it is ‘bad,’ ‘untrustworthy’ and ‘dangerous.’ According to New York City’s top dog and ), trainer, Kate Perry ( canine aggression is a multi-layered occurrence that can be a result of any number of complex factors. She gives us the scoop for understanding a dog’s bark before it bites.
kateperrydogtraining.com
T
he first thing to acknowledge when talking about aggression in dogs is that there is a lot of debate in the expert community about what the word ‘aggression’ actually means.
“Some people think dogs just get angry and then express themselves aggressively, while other people believe it is a genetic -- not emotional -- response,” says Perry, who in her book Training For Both Ends of the Leash helps owners to understand the relationship with their dogs.
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Behavior
“Some believe aggression to be a result of bad breeding. Others still label aggression, no matter what the degree of it, as a dominance issue, but in reality there are several layers to this behaviour. It’s not a black and white diagnosis.” For example, Perry explains that like people, sometimes dogs will fight over certain things in the heat of the moment and then get over it just as quickly as they flared up. “This I refer to as circumstantial aggression,” says Perry. “But we have to take into other considerations. Perhaps the dog is frustrated, over tired or stressed so it acts on impulse, very much like when people say something they later regret because they are caught up in the moment.” Similarly, some outbursts of canine aggression can be boiled down to clashing personalities. “Sometimes a dog will be perfectly fine with every dog it encounters and then for no obvious reason lash out at a certain canine individual,” says Perry. “I refer to this as social aggression and compare it to human beings not liking certain people because they simply don’t click.” Other degrees of aggression that are especially common in Perry’s New York City clientele include territorial aggression, over protectiveness and fear-defensive aggression. With any individual case, Perry says the key lies in deducing an accurate diagnosis, which more often than not is a combination of several different factors. “We need flexible labelling to better understand where the dog is coming from and to help them,” says Perry. “We need to understand the psychology of these cases instead
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of addressing all dogs who snarl, snap or bite as one single case.”
Getting a dynamic diagnosis
One of the most common aggression issues reported by owners is resource guarding – but this term is actually, more accurately, an umbrella for all sorts of other aggressive tendencies. Contrary to popular belief, resource guarding in dogs is not just about food. It is about guarding an object that the dog perceives as high-value and crucial for its survival, but is often effected by other circumstances and contexts. “I have a dog client, a terrier mix, who is owned by a senior couple. He guards one of the owners, because to him the person who feeds him and takes care of him the most is a high-value entity,” says Perry. “But I cannot classify him as simply resource guarding. We noticed that this level of aggression also transferred over to ‘territorial aggression’, which means he started to protect his home and items in the home, like his bones etc.. -- not only that one owner,” continues Perry. “There was also a level of him trying to control the situation using his mouth and lunging at people. So diagnosing his aggression isn’t a simple process. There are almost always many layers to any aggression case; it rarely ever has just one layer to it. Aggression is a complex behaviour to understand.” Understanding a dog’s history and background can also help enormously when it comes time to diagnose an aggressive display. For example, Perry has adopted
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a little chihuahua who was rehomed twice before he landed in her cozy Manhattan nest. “He snaps at people we meet on the street who reach to pet him, consistently,” says Perry. “The reason for his behaviour is that he wasn’t properly socialized during the first five months of his life; as a result he is socially inept and doesn’t have good coping skills. The solution therefore becomes ‘the hand that feeds the dog is the winner.’ I have strangers feed him when we’re out, so new people approaching becomes something he looks forward to.” In this case, the dog is not naturally aggressive towards people – he is reacting out of fear because he never learned how to socialize with strangers. When diagnosing any aggressive situation, Perry reaffirms that trainers need to be asking all sorts of questions to get a better idea of that dog’s mindset. Was he overtired? Was he overstimulated? Was he cornered? Was he scared? Was he trapped? Was he hurt? Understanding a dog’s motivation(s)and the context in which an outburst occurs help to more accurately assess the problem and safely manage it.
See the warning signs
According to Perry, most of the aggressive cases she deals with should not and would not have reached the state they are in had the owners possessed more information about their dog’s signals. “Almost all dogs will give clear signals before they bite,” says Perry. “Meaning that if you see the warning signs, you can address the problem before it happens and before that point of reference – in other words, snapping or biting – comes into play.”
Once a dog has snapped or bitten, that action is essentially cemented into a dog’s brain as an acceptable problem-solving tactic and will be returned to again and again if provoked. A biting tactic will be initiated more and more quickly as well over time, as the dog assumes it is getting him what he wants faster and faster. “If a dog has bitten you before, and repeatedly punished for it over time they will very likely stop giving the warning signals and go from 0 to 10 straight into biting,” says Perry. “These are the dangerous dogs because there is no warning.”
What are the signs?
So what signs should owners watch out for? Growling and baring of teeth. According to Perry this can be a sign of a dog preparing to bite if pushed beyond their threshold of tolerance; in other words these are physical signs that the dog is uncomfortable or scared and may bite if further provoked. A tail tucked between legs, yawning with a little bit of a vibration, moving away, raising hackles, giving a side glance and stiffening their bodies are all clear indications that a dog is stressed, uncomfortable and trying to shut down the situation. Most of the time as well, a dog will air snap first before attempting any physical contact as a warning to tell whatever or whomever is bothering it to back off. Perry recommends consulting with a certified dog trainer or behaviourist if you are unsure how to identify a dog’s warning signs.
The worst thing to do
“A lot of dog owners think that any sort of growl or protest from their dog is an extremely bad thing,” says Perry. “But each dog is going
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to have their own level of threshold when they feel pushed to growl and that needs to be respected as a signal.”
“People say, ‘That’s not nice,’ or ‘you’re supposed to love me!’ and take a growl very personally,” says Perry.
For example, Perry says many owners will unknowingly ignore their dogs body language and signs, thus forcing the dog to up the ante and growl. Then people get upset and try to punish the dog for growling, which escalates the situation and encourages the dog to act out more aggressively in an effort to secure itself.
“People need to look at the context in which this behaviour is happening and understand that their dogs have moods, fears and emotions as well as natural instincts at play.”
“It’s like if you lost your temper with someone; you can’t be reasoned with in that moment and somebody trying to shout reason at you will most likely just infuriate your further. The same is true with dogs,” says Perry. “You need to manage these moments when they are upset, nervous etc., not escalate them.” “Rather than scold a dog for growling, try to make the experience happier for your dog,” says Perry. “Like when I ask strangers to give my chihuahua treats, I am making the approach of strangers a happier experience for him. I am not rewarding his snappy behaviour – the treat association to strangers instead make the situation a happy one.”
Understanding the context
A common mistake owners make with their dogs is over-humanizing them, especially when a dog snaps or growls.
Perry laughs that frequently it is the people who need more training than the dogs themselves.
Rehabilitation myths
“In the media, a lot of tv shows make us think that dogs who have developed aggressive habits can be cured completely,” says Perry. “But that is not the case. Instead, you need to learn how to properly manage and train the behaviour that has been nurtured.” One of Perry’s current clients, an eight-yearold Maltese, charges the front door and bites people who enter the apartment. His owners are now expecting a baby and have decided to hire a trainer/behvaiourist to ‘cure’ the problem. “This dog, a senior dog, has intense social and territorial aggression and was never led by his people, so he took charge,” says Perry. “I explained to them that they needed to take charge, as one would with their future child. I
“Rehabilitation takes time, a lot of time and consistency,” says Perry. “Think about the rehabilitation alcoholics endure – it is a lifelong recovery. The same is true of aggressive dogs. It is a day by day process that varies based upon the individual dog.” 70
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According to Perry, approximately 70% of the aggressive cases she deals with should not have reached the state they are in if the dogs had had better socialization and training early on.
mean, if my son was acting like a tyrant, yelling at guests and throwing things at them, I would take charge and manage that behvaiour right away.” The strategy? Perry and the owners gate the Maltese off in the apartment when people arrive at the house and have guests toss food to him to prove they are not a threat. After several weeks of this habit, the dog was then let out and tethered on leash and would still run around barking at guests, so that needed to be addressed as well. “Behaviour modification takes time, consistency, and patience” says Perry. “Think about the rehabilitation people in recovery programs, like rehab, endure – it is a lifelong recovery. The same is true of aggressive dogs. It is a day by day, week by week process that varies based upon the individual dog.”
Prevention methods
Perry highly recommends getting puppies into puppy class so that you, as a proud pet parent, have lots of information early on, as well as a support group of other puppy owners. “Don’t wait until a dog bites to seek help,” she implores. If you see aggressive tendencies and signs in your dog, or if you’re unsure how to train in general, call an expert. Start training at the warning signs, work with your dog consistently through puppyhood and beyond. “My saying is “correct and redirect,’” says Perry. “If you see unwanted behaviour developing, get a professional trainer to help correct and redirect it as soon as possible.”
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Breed Profile
Charismatic
Ki n g Cavalier
Written by Alexander Bentley Photography by Laura L. Benn Look at that Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Is that not the wavy-haired face of classical royalty? Now imagine a little crown and some purple robes. It really fits, doesn’t it? This is a breed suited for holding court and waving at loyal subjects from high atop a castle balcony. Okay, maybe not, but the King Cavalier is a breed for anyone who wants on them as if they a dog that were royalty.
W
lavishes love and attention
hile the original King Charles Spaniel came from the far east before the 1500s, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel officially sprang into being around 1926, when a King Charles Spaniel with a longer, non-squished face was entered, and subsequently rejected, from a dog show in England (it was later accepted in 1928 as King Charles Spaniel, Cavalier type). As a
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dog firmly within the Toy category, Cavalier Kings are small, topping out at roughly 35 centimeters tall and 20 pounds - bigger than normal King Charles’, but still quite minute. Cavalier Kings are incredibly friendly and outgoing dogs, easily warming up to anyone and everyone they meet. As such they’re not very good guard dogs, but they do make wonderful companions to the young and old alike. They’re a breed that’s just
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as content running around outside with other, bigger dogs as they are calmly curled up in a loving lap. Cavalier Kings need attention to be happy; LOTS of attention. Because they get along so well with others, they can easily find a companion in another dog if their human isn’t home for most of the day, but it’s still good for them to have a fair amount of human contact as well. While all dogs are social animals, this is doubly true for Cavalier Kings; these dogs need a royal retinue! On the other side of the coin, and like most noble lineages, the Cavalier King is quite predisposed to various genetic pitfalls. Mitral Valve Disease is the most prevalent, as all Cavalier Kings are susceptible to it and it’s the cause of just under half of the breed’s deaths (beating out “old age” by a factor of four). Other health issues are Syringomyelia (a disorder of the brain and
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spine that results in mild to severe pain), Episodic Falling (a muscle disorder), (macro) Thrombocytopenia (a blood disorder) as well as assorted hip, knee, eye, and ear disorders. This is definitely a breed that requires regular trips to the royal physician to stay in tip-top health. Training is, like with every breed, very important. Cavalier Kings are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They require moderate amounts of exercise as well, so it’s important to get them off their throne and outside for some play and a daily walk. Cavalier King Spaniels are companionship dogs. If love and comfort from an ever-friendly, wavy-haired pooch sounds appealing, not many breeds can beat out the Cavalier King. Little crown and robe sold separately.
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Hibernating
Creature Comforts
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz z z z z z z z z z z z z z z zin z zStyle! zzzzzz Keep your pet cosy and warm this chilly season z z zwithzanyzof these z incredible z z dog z bedzdesigns! zzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz www.petloungestudios.com zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz www.petplay.com z z z z z z zwww.bowsers.com zzzzzzzzzz zzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz z78z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z BambĂş Hammock II
Donut Bed Peppermint Stripe
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Bamboo Lounge Bed
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Napper Halo Rain
Storage Leopard Bed
Molly Mutt Piggies Duvet
Rectangular Zig Zag
Bumper Bed
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CREATURE COMFORTS
Party Dresses To Bark About
Put your best paw forward this party season with one or all of these ultra fashionable looks.
Photography by Laura L. Benn Hair and makeup by Tasia Richards Assistant Sondra M. Models: Fehn Foss and Leah Spero of Models International Management Dog Models: Oliver the Maltese, Houston the Yorkshire Terrier and Chewy the Pomeranian Dresses by Rachel Sin
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Cape Fur’
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Take the classic little black dress to a whole new level by adding a cape! Swish through any party with the confidence of a fashionable super hero and stand out under the mistletoe.
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Lacey Lady
This delicate dress will feel like you’re sporting a tapestry of snowflakes -- minus the chill. Accessorize with a pair of bright earrings and your best furry friend by your side.
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Emerald Envy
Waltz into your next event wearing this flowing number and watch everyone turn green with envy. Black sequined shoulders add sparkle to the asymmetrical folds of fabric and perfectly suit a stylish up-do for sophisticated fun.
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Midnight Majesty
Have twice as much fun over the holidays in this slinky number that combines traditional elegance with a healthy dash of sass. Wear with hair up or down to get two paws up wherever you go.
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WELLNESS
7 Common winter dog
ailments to avoid Written and photographed by Laura L. Benn
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sniffles and sneezes
When the mercury dips below zero and the world becomes hidden beneath a blanket of snow it is not uncommon for the to find their way into our homes. But did you know that our dogs are also susceptible to winter ailments?
Dr. Aleksandra of Queen West Animal Hospital in Toronto (www.queenwestvets.com) reveals the top winter dangers to watch out for – and how to avoid them. 1 Respiratory ailments Unlike humans, the flu in dogs can be defined as any number of respiratory complications from commonly know conditions such as kennel cough to more complex infections. “Just like us, a dog’s body needs to make more of an effort to keep warm in the winter,” says Dr. Aleksandra. “If the body gets cold it is more vulnerable to sickness.” Dogs who have any sort of diagnosis like heart ailments or diabetes are more prone to hypothermia. “Dogs with these sort of medical issues have a hard time maintaining their body temperature when faced with cold weather for a long time,” explains Dr. Aleksandra. Another concern with water-loving dogs in the winter is being exposed to frozen lakes. “Dogs who are so happy to go to the water in the summer months often don’t realize that there is thin ice and fall in during the winter,” says Dr. Aleksandra. “They can get hypothermia extremely fast and are prone to pneumonia a day or two after such an event.” In the spirit of being better safe than sorry, it is best to keep dogs away from bodies of water in the winter.
Of course it is important to keep in mind that different breeds react differently to the cold. According to Dr. Aleksandra, a large muscular husky with a thick luscious coat will probably be okay for a couple of hours outside, but a little dachshund who is shoulder deep in the snow is more likely to get cold and has an increased risk of developing hypothermia more quickly. Senior dogs and very young pups are especially prone to developing respiratory conditions as a result of too much cold exposure. “A good rule of thumb is if you’re cold, your dog is probably cold too,” advises Dr. Aleksandra. “Be mindful of how long you have been outside and conscious of what your dog is feeling.” 2 Arthritis Although arthritis doesn’t appear all of a sudden in the winter, it does flare up with the cold. “Inflammation, in humans and dogs, gets worse in the cold and really acts up,” says Dr. Aleksandra, who advises that dogs without pain medication during the warmer months of the year may need a prescription or some sort of natural supplement to be comfortable during the winter.
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3 Burns A rather unknown danger to pets during the winter is burns. Dr. Aleksandra says that her clinic sees a lot of skin burns as a result of dogs sleeping too close to fireplaces or space heaters. “They fall asleep next to a heater and their fur gets caught,” she says. “They are doing their best to keep warm, but don’t realize the danger they are putting themselves in.” The burn is only part of the concern with this issue, however, as most dogs will not leave a wound alone and will lick it repeatedly which can cause infection. Similarly, sitting next to a focused heat source can irritate a dog’s skin and cause a lot of discomfort, so be sure to keep fire screens in place an space heaters elevated beyond a dog’s reach. 4 Frostbite “Frostbite in a Canadian winter is very much a no-brainer,” says Dr. Aleksandra. It is important not to leave your dog outside unattended, as a dog’s ears, paws, tail and even nose are all extremely sensitive to the cold. If you have a working dog in the country, providing excellent warm shelter, wind protection and a lot of good bedding is key to combating the risk of frostbite. “You should also provide water that is not frozen,” says Dr. Aleksandra. As for urban dogs, Dr. Aleksandra once again prescribes common sense: “If you’re cold, your dog may be cold too.” 5 Dry skin
If left untreated, dry skin can evolve from a pesky cosmetic issue into a serious medical concern. “Some animals’ skin will get red and flake off, which then becomes an easy point of entry for bacteria that usually lives on a dog’s skin, leading to infection and all sorts of complications,” explains Dr. Aleksandra. Ask your vet about shampoos and topical treatments that can help prevent and treat dry skin. 6 Fleas Perhaps one of the most surprising ailments to afflict pets in the winter is fleas. “I see fleas all the time in winter, much to the bewilderment of owners,” says Dr. Aleksandra. “It may be cold outside, but it’s 25 degrees C at your place and fleas are attracted to warm environments.” As soon as it gets cold outside, the majority of people stop flea prevention. But fleas don’t die in the cold, instead they go dormant. If they migrate to a warm environment, such as an apartment or other urban dwelling, they will cosily reproduce and voila – flea outbreak! Continue flea prevention treatments to avoid an unwanted infestation. 7 Cracked paws Salted roads and sidewalks can wreak havoc on a dog’s paws and cause cracking which in turn can lead to serious infection. “Pick up a paw balm of some sort and wash the paws after every walk to prevent cracking,” advises Dr. Aleksandra.
Summertime is drenched with high humidity levels, which often naturally addresses dry skin concerns in dogs. But when winter hits, skin can become more easily irritated.
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Grooming
The Ultimate Guide
Understanding the grooming process and what your dog’s coat needs. Written by Lisa Day Photography by Simone Fauque
A fresh start One of the first things a professional groomer needs to do in their job is bathe a dog, but this task isn’t simply a matter of a quick dip in the tub. It is a precise and methodical chore that ensures the coat is as clean and as straight as possible so that it can hold the best haircut. One would think that a dog is clean after being soaked, lathered and rinsed, but this is not always the case. To ensure that you are in fact dealing with a clean dog after a rub-a-dub-dub, groomers look for the ‘squeak’ on a dog’s coat once rinsing is completed. The secret ‘squeak’ should mimic the feel and sound of a clean glass plate. Your fingers should not easily glide across a clean wet dog’s coat; instead there will be a noticeable resistance and ‘squeak.’ If there is no squeak when you run your hands over a coat after bathing, it needs to be re-lathered and rinsed until you have that desired result.
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Don’t blow away A heat stand dryer that provides variable heat settings and allows for hands-free drying so the groomer can brush out and dry at once is a standard piece of equipment in the grooming industry. It is suitable for most coat types – the notable exceptions being smooth and short coats. A high velocity dryer, on the other hand, is suitable for all coat types and produces a forceful, unheated pressure of air that not only dries the coat, but helps to straighten it too. A straightened coat is desired by professional groomers as it allows for a more even all-over cut and a better assessment of the coat’s condition as a whole.
The matter with mats Mats are complex tangles of fur that can pull on a dog’s skin, prevent air from reaching the skin and harbour pieces of debris that can horribly irritate and distress the skin. If left to advance, mats can develop into serious health situations and impede a dog’s movement, sight and even basic bodily functions. The ability for mats to cause extreme discomfort and pain is why regular grooming and brushing is so important for a dog’s well-being.
A groomer’s mental checklist When assessing any dog coat for grooming, a groomer must first conduct a visual and physical checklist that defines their assessment.
Regardless of coat type, there are consistent areas on a canine that are problematic for coats and prone to mats. These are referred to as ‘friction areas’ and are located under the front legs (in the dog’s arm pits so to speak), around the rear end, behind the ears and around the collar area – anywhere the coat is repeatedly rubbing against itself. The coat will also be assessed for the amount of undercoat that is present and whether it has been neglected or removed. If the coat is brushed regularly at home, it should be in good health. If the undercoat has been cut out, this will in most cases cause problems for the remainder of the fur. A groomer must also watch for any skin irritations, wounds or injuries that a dog may have as grooming would aggravate those conditions.
Lather love Shampoos are as varied as coats, dogs and dog owners combined! There are colour enhancing, medicated, texturizing, conditioning, aromatic, whitening, hypoallergenic, tearless and oatmeal shampoos – just to name a few. In order to choose the best shampoo for any dog, a groomer must be aware of the coat type they are working with and the condition of that individual coat. Assuming the dog’s skin is healthy, a good basic shampoo arsenal is: a general basic coat cleaner, a whitening (bluing) shampoo, a medicated (oatmeal, tea tree etc.) shampoo and a texturizing shampoo.
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DECODING THE DOG COAT We examine 11 popular dog coat types and break each down to help your dog look and feel
his best!
Coat type: Hard and wiry; little to no shedding Coat characteristics: Wiry with tendencies for oiliness. What makes this coat special: The wire texture naturally means little to no matting. Best shampoo for coat: One designed specifically for wire coats. Avoid the ‘softening’ shampoos that can diminish the wire texture and instead opt for texturizing shampoos that will maintain the desired wire feel. How should it be groomed: To maintain the wire texture, the coat should be handstripped. If clipped, the coat softens in texture and the wire coarseness is removed. When the coat loses its wire characteristics, matting can then be an issue. Pay special attention to having the nails trimmed and the pads cleaned. A stand dryer or high velocity dryer provides best results with this coat. What you should never do with this coat: Ideally, never clipper it as it will ruin the dog’s natural coat. Most owners can’t commit to the necessary frequency of the hand-stripping process for it to be practical. So there are many wire coats that mat due to the softening result of clipping.
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Coat type: Soft and non-shedding Coat characteristics: Very soft coat (it’s in their name!) What makes this coat special: The coat’s softness needs to be respected and understood. It can have a high propensity of matting due to the density and softness of the coat. Best shampoo for coat: A shampoo with a light conditioner would benefit this coat type. The conditioner would aid in the brush out and help weigh the coat down for finishing. How should it be groomed: Clipped with comb guards, to allow the coat length to be maintained and to maintain breed profile. The use of thinning shears on the body and legs can also be used to keep the integrity of the coat. Nails trimmed, pads cleaned. Ears checked for hair inside. What you should never do with this coat: Shaving should be absolutely avoided.
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Coat type: Long and flowing; non-shedding Coat characteristics: Soft, dense, cottony What makes this coat special: This coat is prone to matting if not groomed regularly. Best shampoo for coat: Similar to the Soft Coated Wheaten a shampoo with a light conditioner would be most beneficial. A tearless variety should be used to assist when cleaning face of tear stains. How should it be groomed: For pet maintenance, a shorter coat is practical for most owners. The biggest concern should always be to keep the coat brushed to avoid matting. The shortened muzzle and large eyes are common areas of tearing and staining, so keeping these areas clear of hair and properly dried should be a priority. Nails trimmed, pads cleaned. What you should never do with this coat: Shaving should be avoided. Most Shih Tzus are light coloured and their skin can be sensitive. Close shaving can cause reaction, irritations and sunburn.
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Coat type: Curly and non-shedding Coat characteristics: Curly, wool-type coat that has little to no ‘doggy’ smell What makes this coat special: It can be shaped into multiple styles and looks. Best shampoo for coat: A texturizing shampoo encourages better scissoring and drying options How should it be groomed: The poodle coat is truly the ‘topiary’ of dog coats. Regular brushing and/or combing will allow for more options in the grooming salon. Keeping the coat short for easy maintenance is one of the most common choices. Nails trimmed and ears checked for hair inside. What you should never do with this coat: Never neglect the brushing needs or bathe without checking for tangles and matts first, as added moisture can further tangle this coat.
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Coat type: Hard and wiry Coat characteristics: If not clipped, the coat will remain wiry. Clipping softens the texture. What makes this coat special: This is another coat that has little matting with minimal maintenance. Best shampoo for coat: A whitening shampoo to diminish the yellow/beige cast in the coat. How should it be groomed: Hand-stripped to keep the wire texture; although a clipped ‘puppy coat’ is common for most owners. Nails trimmed, pads cleaned. What you should never do with this coat: It’s pretty durable, but the same concerns of the light coloured Shih Tzu coat would apply here as well – due to the fairness of the dog, shaving should be avoided.
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Coat type: Soft and thick Coat characteristics: Long and silky with minimal shedding What makes this coat special: Thickness can be a maintenance issue. Keeping the coat thinned out and brushed is the main concern when keeping this coat as healthy as possible. Best shampoo for coat: A general all-purpose shampoo with a light conditioner to address the silky thick coat on the undercarriage and legs. How should it be groomed: A shortened coat is simpler and easier for the owner to live with so clip and scissor the coat while keeping the traditional look of the Spaniel. Nails trimmed, pads cleaned. What you should never do with this coat: Bathe without checking for tangles and matts, particularly in between the toes as this is a common problem area for spaniels.
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Coat type: Double coat, high shedding Coat characteristics: Soft undercoat, oily top coat What makes this coat special: The long furnishings can easily mat, particularly behind ears and rear end. Best shampoo for coat: An all-purpose general shampoo and a light conditioner on the furnishings/feathers How should it be groomed: Remove the undercoat (that is what is being shed) and maintain the top coat to protect the skin. Trim the feet, ears, tail and neaten the feathers/furnishings – the long silky hairs. Nails trimmed, pads cleaned. What you should never do with this coat: Shaving should be avoided at all costs, as shaving cuts the topcoat and leaves the undercoat. The shedding issue is not addressed when you leave the undercoat. Only brushing the undercoat out will reduce the shedding and provide proper protection for the skin.
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Coat type: Smooth Coat characteristics: Shedding and it can be prone to dryness What makes this coat special: No matting, which makes for simple easy maintenance. Best shampoo for coat: A general all purpose. A tearless variety should be chosen so one can thoroughly clean the face. How should it be groomed: Nails trimmed and bathed/dried. What you should never do with this coat: Over bathe or use a slicker brush on it.
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Wellness
Coat type: Long and flowing Coat characteristics: Soft and silky What makes this coat special: It is non-shedding, which also means no ‘doggy’ odour Best shampoo for coat: A whitening, tearless shampoo accompanied by a light conditioner How should it be groomed: Shortened for easy maintenance. Pay close attention the face and eyes to address the common tear stains. Nails trimmed and pads cleaned. What you should never do with this coat: Shaving should be avoided. White coated dogs are susceptible to sunburn and other skin sensitivities
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Wellness
Coat type: Smooth Coat characteristics: Shedding What makes this coat special: No matting. Simple easy maintenance. Best shampoo for coat: An all- purpose general shampoo How should it be groomed: Nails trimmed and bathed/dried. What you should never do with this coat: Never over bathe
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Wellness
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Coat type: Double coat; dense Coat characteristics: Thick, soft and frizzy What makes this coat special: It is dense and heavy. This coat mats easily if not cared for regularly and properly. Best shampoo for coat: An all- purpose general cleaning. Conditioner applied to heavy furnishings. How should it be groomed: Brushed and combed. Undercoat removed. Furnishings trimmed. Coat thinned out, particularly in the friction areas. What you should never do with this coat: Shaving should be avoided. Top coat should be protected and undercoat removed to allow for healthy skin and coat.
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Wellness
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Grooming Gear Handy At Home
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Grooming Foam www.earthbath.com
New from EarthBath, this foaming formula allows you to make the most of bath time without water! This waterless product is the equivalent of human dry shampoo – simply rub on, towel-off and set your dog free of pesky bubbles. Ideal for the pup who hates the tub! Available in hypoallergenic and green tea scents.
Love Glove Grooming Mitt www.fourpaws.com
For the dog who needs pampering but is terrified of brushes, this sneak little Love Glove is a great way to groom and show that you care. Trick your dog into what it thinks is an epic bellyrub session, when in actual fact you are getting rid of excess fur! Fits any hand. Best for soft coats.
FURminator for Puppies www.petsmart.com
Set your puppy up for a lifetime of good grooming habits with this specially designed puppy brush. Interchangeable soft brush and comb attachments, ergonomic design and relaxing contours makes for a gentle and soothing experience.
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Shampoos are as varied as coats, dogs and dog owners combined! There are colour enhancing, medicated, texturizing, conditioning, aromatic, whitening, hypoallergenic, tearless and oatmeal shampoos – just to name a few.
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Mats are complex tangles of hair or fur that can pull on a dog’s skin, prevent air from reaching the skin and harbour pieces of debris that can horribly irritate and distress the skin. If left to advance, mats can develop into serious health situations such as impeding a dog’s movement, sight and even basic bodily functions. {Special thanks to Pampered Pets of Westmount in Quebec, Canada for allowing Pawsh a behind-the-scenes look into the grooming world.} pawsh-magazine.com
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Creature Comforts
THINGS WE Holiday Wishlist!
Green Dog Slow Feeder
It’s okay to play with your dinner – especially if you’re a dog who wolfs food down without chewing first. Simply scatter your dog’s kibble among the green ridges and let your pup sniff out their dinner. This product extends feeding time which ultimately helps with doggy digestion and reduces the risk of choking.
www.companyofanimals.us
Cloud 7 Dog Bed Sleepy Deluxe Tweed Rose
This beautiful, eco-friendly dog bed offers every modern day comfort imaginable to your furry bundle of joy while also effortlessly complimenting any style of home decor. The covers are completely removable and machine-washable and the organic materials are soft enough to make you wish you could also curl up in tweed for a snooze.
www.thepetshopboys.ca
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Dipper Treat Jars ‘Tis the season for treating (and spoiling!) What better way to keep treats safe and sound than with these contemporary ceramic jars? The red in particular would look lovely around the holidays. Dishwasher safe and FDA approved – win, win all around!
www.waggo.com
Canada Pooch North Pole Parka
Good news big dogs! There is now a stylish, warm and comfortable winter jacket for you too! This stunning puffy, waterproof parka has a lovely faux-down filling, a supremely soft fleece lining, faux fur trim and adorable pocket for stashing all of your favourite goodies! Available in blue, black, purple, orange and red this jacket is a must have for every Canadian furkid – big or small!
www.canadapooch.com
Red Peacoat
For the dapper dog who wants to look and feel his best this season, this sweet peacoat is an excellent wardrobe addition for hitting parties, going carolling or just strutting your stuff on the evening walk. Handmade and made to order. Very ‘pawsh’ indeed!
www.theroverboutique.com
Mattie & Margot Limited Edition Holiday Collars
Made with premium ribbon, die-cast metal hardware that’s perfect for dogs big and small, and nylon webbing in black or brown, Fido is sure to look good in these festive collars!
www.mattieandmargot.com
My First Bear
Pet parenthood is full of firsts – and first teddy bears are an adorable twist on the pet toy scene! Imagine your pup unwrapping this beauty beneath the Christmas tree or pulling it out of their stocking? It will be a little plush treasure to be sure!
www.foufoudog.com
Silhouette Throw Pillows Dress up your couch with a pair of stylish and sentimental throw pillows inspired by our canine friends. The rich, festive colours and durable design will stand the test of time on more than one level! Available in an assortment of bright candied colours!
www.erinreadesign.com pawsh-magazine.com
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CREATURE COMFORTS
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DID YOU
Know...?
Interesting facts that you might not know about your dog. Photography by Laura L. Benn
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Soccer dogs Larger dogs especially love to chase around the bouncy challenge presented by a classic soccer ball. To encourage this game, deflate the ball ever so slightly so that your dog can pick it up. Practise your drop kick and play fetch with Fido at the same time!
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Cool porcelain Many dogs don’t enjoy warm water when it comes time to quench their thirst. Keep your pup’s H20 cooler longer by using porcelain bowls – just be sure you use a fine quality porcelain and keep it out of harm’s way when not in use to avoid breakage.
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Leash dangers Dogs who pull and jerk when walking on a leash are at greater risk of sustaining a neck or back injury, including nerve damage. Consider using a reliable harness to help over eager dogs learn to walk nicely and safely on leash.
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On a yappy note According to recent studies, cats can make close to 100 different vocal sounds,
while dogs can only make about 10 – but that doesn’t mean they don’t have a lot to bark about!
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Super cool kale Research suggests that kale can help prevent at least five different types of cancer in us mere mortals. This luscious leafy green is projected to do the same for our canine friends. Bursting with natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, kale helps to reduce joint stress in dogs and offers lots of important essential vitamins. TIP: Can’t get your dog to chow down on this leafy green? Blend it up with some gravy and pour over their dinner.
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Dogs and robots Researchers in Hungry are using dog behaviour to test and improve the sociability of robots. Machines that are programmed more socially (for example to call a dog by its name) were given more canine attention than machines that operated in a strictly machine like manner. Scientists suggest that using dogs to measure a robot’s sociability will help to improve future design behaviours and make robots more human.
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Wellness
Paw Balms TOP
3
protected from the elements
The best balms to keep your dog’s tootsies this season
Fou-Stick www.foufoupet.com
Available in an easy-to-use twist tube that is small enough to fit in your purse or pocket, Fou-Stick soothes, protects against winter salt, leaves no residue and moisturizes cracked paws. Made with 100% natural ingredients, such as beeswax, coconut oil, mango seed butter and peppermint oil, Fou-Stick protects and nourishes your dog’s tender tootsies.
Bag Balm www.bagbalm.ca
This balm is actually used to moisturize a cow’s udder, but is completely safe and effective for canine paws! Canadian made, it moisturizes a pup’s paws and helps treat cracks. For best results – and to stop your pup for licking it all off – gently apply to paws and cover with boots or dog socks.
Espree Natural Paw Balm www.petco.com
This all-natural formula protects paws and elbow joints from dryness and cracked skin. Simple to apply and infused with soothing elements, this balm will help your dog keep a spring in their step.
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Get your daily dose of dog fun at New content every day of the week! pawsh-magazine.com
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PET PROJECT
Socks Appeal DIY Dog Toy
simple 3-in-1 dog toy
Keep your dog thoroughly entertained with this that you can make by simply raiding the laundry hamper for a rogue sock or two!
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Pets At Home
TOY #1: Sock Puppets What dog doesn’t adore a game of gentle rough-house with their favourite human? Dress up this traditional dog-friendly game by selecting a pretty (and clean!) sock and wearing it on your hand in true sock puppet fashion. Then let the games begin! Make the sock puppet ‘talk’ to your dog and move it about in an animated manner. Your dog will love the addition of a new ‘character’ to your game and it will give you an opportunity to be more hands on with the furkid!
TOY #2: Secret socks Most canine friends love a frisky frolic with a sock in tow. Add to the socks’ appeal by hiding something extra special inside. Tennis balls are especially wonderful, as they add bounce to this otherwise two-dimensional play thing. Simply roll the sock over whatever item you wish to ‘hide’ from your dog – a ball, a squeaky toy, a plastic water bottle -- and let the good times roll!
TOY #3: Chain of socks Keep those solo socks left over from your dryer’s mysterious appetite (you know what I’m talking about) until you have a collection of about half a dozen. Then tie them all together in a chain and attach to a doorknob of a closed door or hang securely from the ceiling -- providing the sock chain can reach or nearly reach the floor. Next entice your dog to nudge and pull on the sock chain. Once your dog is interested, the chain of socks essentially recreates the game tug-of-war but without the necessity of a second player. This is a great toy to employ if you are busy working, cooking or trying to watch the season finale of your favourite show, because your dog can still have a game despite playing on his or her own.
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Stylish Socks
Make this toy as stylish as possible with some of the season’s brightest and boldest socks available through www.floorplaysocks.com. Polka Dot Women’s Crew Sock $5
Hombre Women’s Sock $22
Corgi Knee High Women’s Sock $12
Boxer Men’s Sock $12
Tomboy Red Women’s Sock $5
Truant Yellow Men’s Sock $12
Blamo Men’s Sock $12
Tomahawk Men’s Athletic Sock $12
Pin Stripe Men’s Quarter Sock $12
And now for something different... Looking for a way to memorialize your much loved pet and help shelter animals at the same time? That is the mission of Stacey Hsu’s Original Sock Dogs. For just $100, you can have a handmade, one-of-a-kind plush doll of your dog, cat or bunny -- you name it -- recreated from a photograph. Plus, each commission is guaranteed to have a percentage of the profits donated directly to animal shelters in Kansas City and nationwide across America.
Visit online at www.sockdogs.com to see all the latest custom designs! (Not intended for use as a dog toy) pawsh-magazine.com
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KIBBLE & BITS
Woof!
By Lee Montgomery
Some of history’s most prominent and prestigious writers take up their pens to discuss the determined devotion of dogs in true canine fashion. From matters of mischievousness, to unfettered kisses, to steadfast loyalty this collection of essays offers a glimpse into some of literature’s most mesmerizing minds and how they perceive our canine citizens.
Rover
by Andrew Grant
Commercial photographer, Andrew Grant, addresses the issue of shelter animals in his provocative and whimsical museum-quality coffee table book. Designed to raise money for animals in need, Rover is bursting with fine art portraits of dogs of all shapes and sizes who need a second chance at life. This title strives to bring awareness to the shelter crisis in America and promote responsible pet parenthood.
Disposable Dogs: Heartwarming, True Stories Of Courage And Compassion by Steve Swanbeck
Grab a package of tissues and hold your furry ones close as you delve into this heart-wrenching anthology of 70 true survival stories about dogs who were given a second chance at life. Exploring the deep bond between dogs who were in some cases rescued mere hours before they were scheduled to die and the people who believed in them is enough to send even the most reserved individual to happy tears.
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R
elish a few of these high-paw worthy titles and discover a whole new level to your .
dog’s wonderful, magical world
If You Give A Dog A Donut by Laura Numeroff
Fuelled by a tasty sprinkled donut, dog sets out on all sorts of doggy adventures in the backyard and around the house – being mischievous all the time. It’s a lovely continuation of the “If You Give...” book tradition and is ideal for little ones who are besotted with their canine chum.
The Genius of Dogs: How Dogs Are Smarter Than You Think by Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods
A compelling and captivating journey into the inner workings of a dog’s mind, this book examines scientific breakthroughs in cognitive science. The fascinating findings are both moving and monumental, encouraging the reader to reconsider how we perceive our dog friends – and more importantly, how dogs may perceive us.
The Dog Lived (And So Will I!) by Teresa Rhyne
This auto-biographical story follows one woman and her rescued Beagle’s simultaneous battle against cancer in a humorous, tender and very real manner. Although addressing some very dark subject matter face on, this story does so in an uplifting and inspirational way that will have you laughing, shouting and tearing up – sometimes all at the same time. It is a warm and fuzzy reminder that many of life’s greatest lessons can be learned from a dog and his simple, yet profound, outlook.
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Closing notes
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Power Without
Written by Aaron M.P. Jackson Photography by Amber Allen
When the storm Set in The power Went Out Thankfully We had Two dogs Warmth Entertainment Distractions from the Stir Crazy nature Of the situation As hours Turned into days Old bones Lost Became Found Canines proving themselves more Capable of going Without electricity Than Humans
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s g k n n i a ad Th Re r o F
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