PUPCULTURE December 2012 | www.pupculturemagazine.com
MAGAZINE
SPECIAL HOLIDAY MINI ISSUE
Inside!
H O L I D AY GIFT GUIDE
Giving Back AND HELPING DOGS WITHOUT LEAVING
YOUR HOME
POTTY TRAINING
101
PHINEAS SWANN BED & BREAKFAST A DOG AND OWNER DREAM VACATION DESTINATION
+
MAKE YOUR OWN RIBBON COLLAR HOLIDAY FRUITCAKE RECIPE
IT CAN HAPPEN SOONER THAN YOU THINK . 50% of all pets born are accidents. Spaying or neutering your pet at 4 months can prevent those accidents and help save millions of dogs and cats from being killed in shelters each year. PREVENT MORE. FIX AT MONTH FOUR.
fixatfour.com
MAGAZINE
PUPCULTURE
Announces
12 Days of Christmas Give Aways
Our Give Away Starts December 1st.
To enter please visit: pupculturemagazine.com/xmas-giveaway
MAGAZINE
PUPCULTURE
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COVER STORY 18 OUR SPECIAL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Find some fabulous gifts for your favorite dog and human in our Holiday Gift Guide. FEATURES 10
GIVING BACK AND HELPING DOGS Without Leaving Your Home
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THINGS TO CONSIDER Before Gifting a Pet
8 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 2 APRIL/MAY 2012
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DEPARTMENTS 16
DOG AS ART The Night Before Christmas
26
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
Potty Training 101
28
TRAVEL & LEISURE Phineas Swann Bed & Breakfast
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HEALTH & WELLNESS Holiday Plant Toxicity
DECEMBER 2012 • SPECIAL HOLIDAY ISSUE
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BARK-CETERA LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
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CONTRIBUTORS
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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DOGGIE DELICACIES: Holiday Fruitcake
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READERS PET PICS:Happy Howl-idays
36
MAKE YOUR OWN: Ribbon Collar
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PRODUCT REVIEW: Rescue Chocolate
40
THE PUP CULTURE LIST:
8 Reasons Your Dog Makes Holidays More Fun
PUPCULTURE
MAGAZINE
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Inside!
H O L I D AY GIFT GUIDE
Giving Back
AND HELPING DOGS
WITHOUT LEAVING
YOUR HOME
PHINEAS SWANN BED & BREAKFAST A DOG AND OWNER DREAM VACATION DESTINATION
ON THE COVER
Dog Bed Provided by: P.L.A.Y. Pet Lifestyle And You Dog Treats Provided by: Charlie Chews Dog Model: Riley Photography by: Michelle Macirella
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PUP CULTURE
MAGAZINE
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Furthering Our Love of Dogs
Welcome to our special holiday mini-issue! It’s that time of year again where we start shopping for all those who hold a special place in our hearts and start looking forward to holiday gatherings with friends and family. Our homes are filled with the sights and sounds of the season: chestnuts roasting over an open fire, the wonderful aroma of sugar cookies baking in the oven and, like most dog parents, the sight of your pup sleeping by the Christmas tree. However, along with these picture-perfect holiday scenarios also comes the typical holiday rush and worry. Here at Pup Culture, we want to help you out as best we can. To include Fido in your holiday gatherings, take a look at our Doggie Delicacies section on page 8. There is a great recipe for dog-friendly fruitcake generously given to us by Andrea Thompson from Katie’s Jar. For gift ideas, we always feature products from the best companies in the industry. In this issue be sure to take a peek at our Holiday Gift Guide on page 18, which is included help you when figuring out what to get for the dog and dog lover in your life. For tips on dog-friendly decorating, check out the article on page 32 on holiday plant toxicity to help you decorate your house for the holidays without risking Fido’s safety. Lastly, if you are looking to take a trip this holiday season and are worrying about where your pup will stay, check out Phineas Swann Bed and Breakfast in Vermont on page 28. Not only is it located in picturesque Vermont, but they are pet-friendly so your whole family can be with you during the winter holiday. As usual, we’re always on the lookout for unique stories about dogs, their owners and community programs. So feel free to let us know about a great story you think we should cover or feature. Don’t forget to get social with us on Facebook, Twitter and our website at www.pupculturemagazine.com to stay current with more great articles, information and giveaways exclusive to the web. Our bi-monthly online subscription is free, so be sure to sign-up on our mailing list through the website to be the first to have the magazine delivered right to your inbox. It’s hard to believe that 2012 is almost over, but with a new year comes new opportunities and new beginnings. Our next full-length issue, appropriately titled New Beginnings will launch January 15th. Until then, enjoy this issue and have a wonderful and safe holiday season.
Cheers!
Gabriella
Publisher Avant-Bark Media Editor-in-Chief Gabriella Martinez Contributing Editors Michelle Macirella Creative Director Monica Cevallos Photo Editor Michelle Macirella Design & Production Gabriella Martinez Contributing Writers MaryAnn Aquilino Laura Kinsey Gabriella Martinez Kim Mayes Debra Thesing Christine White
Contributing Photographers Michelle Macirella, Luminaria Photography Jessica Luce, Jessica Luce Photography Julie Clegg, Bailey and Banjo Pet Photography Linda Dow Hayes, Hayes Photography
Advertising Inquires: email advertising@pupculturemagazine.com
Copyright 2012 by Avant-Bark Media. All rights reserved. No part of publication may be reproduced by any means, electronic or mechanical, including the internet or photocopying without the written permission of the publisher. PUP CULTURE Magazine and its logotype are the trademarks of Avant-Bark Media. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, images, photographs, or other materials. By accepting and publishing advertising, the publisher in no way recommends, guarantees or endorses the quality of services or products within those advertisements. The information contained in this on-line magazine is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Pup Culture Magazine and Avant-Bark Media, and while every effort is made to provide information which is both current and correct, Pup Culture Magazine and Avant-Bark Media make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the online magazine or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained within the on-line magazine for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. In no event will Pup Culture Magazine and Avant-Bark Media be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this on-line magazine.
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Contributors Gabriella Martinez, Editor-In-Chief
MaryAnn Aquilino, Contributing Writer
Gabriella is a marketing professional and owner of A Barkers Dozen Gourmet Dog Treats. Her intricately decorated treats have been featured in various publications such as People Pets, Dog Tipper and local papers. She is a graduate from Rochester Institute of Technology with a Bachelors of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Printing and Publishing, Photographic Arts and Sciences, Marketing and Psychology. A life-long animal lover, she currently lives with her 3 dogs and 6 cats.
After 25 years in the corporate world, MaryAnn decided to do what she loved— work with dogs. She studied everything she could about dog training, worked with a several great trainers, and has had success with training dogs in people’s homes. She is also a certified groomer and loves what she does—much less stress and doggy kisses every day; What’s not to like?! She always loved to write and has done so for local newspapers, websites, and now for a great magazine, Pup Culture! One her greatest joys is to be able to help people and their dogs, either through training, grooming, writing, or a combination of the three.
Michelle Macirella, Photo Editor & Contributing Writer Michelle Macirella is the Owner/Photographer of Luminaria Photography in Rochester, NY. In addition to being a photographer, Michelle was also a professional theatrical Stage Manager and Production Secretary on Academy & Emmy Award winning film and television productions such as A Beautiful Mind and Ed. She has been a contributing writer and photographer for several publications including Lake Affect Magazine and Rochester Woman Magazine, and is a member of Professional Photographers of America. One of Michelle’s specialties is commercial pet photography and pet portraits. She is a lover of all things dog, especially her own Tibetan Spaniel mix, Bear, who brightens her life every day.
Monica Cevallos, Creative Director Monica is an avid animal lover and design and illustration fancier, who 8 years ago merged these three loves together to form Sniff Design Studio™, an awardwinning graphic design studio that caters to the pet industry. She holds degrees in Fine Art, Graphic Design and Print Production from San Fransico State University and Platt College of Design. She is also the proud mother of Willamina & Maxamillion (A.K.A.) Mina and Max, two darling yet little devil dachshunds.
Christine White, Contributing Writer Christine White lives in Rochester, NY with her dog Bailey Rae, named after musician Corinne Bailey Rae. Her areas of interest include fashion, researchoriented articles and feature stories chronicling inspiring people within the dog industry. Christine graduated from S.U.N.Y. Geneseo with a B.A. in communication and has been writing ever since she can remember. As a marketing intern with the American Red Cross, Christine gained experience interviewing clients and writing press releases, blog posts and testimonials. She volunteers regularly at local animal shelters providing the animals with walks along the nearby trail, love and attention.
Debra Thesing, Contributing Writer (Crafts) Debra Thesing works in the legal field by day and all things Pug the rest of her waking hours! She is the owner of Pugpossessed - a little shop not just for Pugs. She and her husband are owned by 6 Pugs, 3 of whom are rescues. She is actively involved with rescue and travels near and far meeting up with online friends and going to Pug events and fundraisers.
Rebecca Astheimer, Contributing Writer Throughout her college career, Rebecca was a columnist for her University’s newspaper, and spent her free weekends volunteering at local animal shelters. She is a graduate of Hoftstra University and lives in Rochester, NY with her beloved Cardigan Corgi, Scooter.
Carol Giotto, Contributing Writer (TTouch) Carol was first certified as a Tellington TTouch Practitioner in 2001. She is actively involved with Therapy Dogs International; she is the current director of TDI Chapter #216 and she and her two therapy dogs (Jonah and Lottie Mae) visit various libraries and nursing homes in the Rochester Area. Carol is also a founding member and Treasurer of Veterans PetReach, Inc., a local charitable organization whose mission is to foster, train and place a carefully selected shelter or rescue animal with a Veteran who can benefit from the presence of a companion animal. Carol is also actively involved in fundraising activities for the Rochester City Animal Shelter (Rochester Animal Services). She lives with her husband, English Mastiffs and a cat.
Kim Mayes, Behavior & Training Kim Mayes is an AKC CGC and Puppy STAR Evaluator, a SARA Therapy & Service Animal Trainer/Evaluator and a Certified Trick Dog Instructor. Kim is also Team Leader for Rockin’ Dawgs All-Star Pro Performance Dog Team and enjoys competing in many dog sports, however, her passion lies with trick training, animal acting and canine freestyle. Kim resides in Titusville, Florida with her 3 Siberian Huskies (Seppala, Nali and Abbey) and her English Bulldog (Riddick). Her dogs have received multiple titles over the years and have gone to do work in books, training videos and print ads. Her dog ‘Seppala’ was the 1st dog in the country to receive the title of Trick Dog Champion and her rescued English Bulldog ‘Riddick’ has been the 1st, and so far the only, dog of his breed to achieve the same title.
Jessica Luce, Contributing Photographer Jessica graduated from Portfolio Center’s post-graduate program for Commercial Photography and knew before she even got her hands on the diploma that dog photography is what she’s meant to do! Her sincere love for dogs of all breeds combined with her creative passion for photography birthed a career that she wouldn’t dare trade for anything else. Jessica is an Atlanta, Georgia native and you can find her photographing family pets and for rescue groups throughout Atlanta and its suburbs..
Julie Clegg, Contributing Photographer Julie Clegg of Bailey & Banjo Pet Photography is an award-winning photographer, most recently voted Best of Western Washington. Julie’s efforts to raise money and awareness for canine cancer research led her to start another company called Lick. Slobber. Drool., a dog lifestyle company that sells canine cancer related products with a portion of the proceeds going back to canine cancer research. Julie’s work has been featured on several covers of City Dog Magazine where she is a regular contributor, in addition to Dog Fancy, The Bark and Pup Culture. She currently resides in Issaquah, WA with her family which includes Bailey & Banjo, her two lovable yellow labs.
Terri Parthum, Contributing Photographer Terri is certified by Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and is currently serving on the Board of Greater Rochester Professional Photographers. She has over 20 years experience in the photographic industry. Many 4 legged friends have made their home with her over the years. Currently, she is the proud Aunt (and occasional babysitter) to 3 Yorkies & a Shih Tzu.
Linda Dow Hayes, Contributing Photographer Linda Dow Hayes is a portrait photographer living and working in Upstate New York. Born and raised in New Hampshire, she has fond memories of time spent with her first family dog, Susie and her stepdog Rasputin. She enjoys spending time with her family attending sporting events and concerts as well as hiking and relaxing at home. Along with her English Springer Spaniel, KC (short for Katherine Claire-which her family decided was far too proper of a name for daily use), she has a cat, Maybelline, and 2 Japanese Fighting Fish, Gypsy and Mayor McFish, as members of her family.
www.pupculturemagazine.com | 5
DECEMBER
CALENDAR O F
EVENTS
DEC 1st - 9th
4th Annual Hawaii Week for the Animals Volcano, HI
8AM - 8PM
DEC 7th
One Tail at a Time’s Houndstooth Ball
7PM - 10:30PM
Help us celebrate a year of saving lives at the dog-friendly party of the year. Dinner buffet, open bar, music, calendar release, free photobooth and art auction. Leashed, social, vaccinated dogs are welcome to join us for the fun!
For More Information: www.hawaiianimals.org
For More Information: www.onetail.org/events
Tinsel & Tails Holiday Tastetacular! New York, NY
5:30PM-8:30PM
For NYC’s homeless animals amateur & iconic chefs serving their signature dishes! Dogs and owners will enjoy: cocktails & doggie bags, pup-parazzi photos, holiday themed costume contests
For More Information: www.celebritycatwalk.com 6 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 2012
Palm Beach Pet Expo West Palm Beach, FL
Chicago, IL
This special week is designed to highlight the importance that animals play in our lives and bring communities together on behalf of the animals throughout the great state of Hawaii.
DEC 9th
DEC 8th
DEC 31st
8th Annual Key West Dachshund Walk
10AM - 5PM
Bring your pet and get their picture taken with Santa. Talk with professionals, shop, and enter your pup in the contests. There will be a Doggie Fun Zone as well as demonstrations for you and your family to watch. Family fun for everyone.
For More Information: www.palmbeachpetexpo.com
Want Your Pet Related Event Listed?
Key West, FL
Starting at 11:30AM
For the past 7 years, downtown Key West has been turned into a Wiener Wonderland when the annual Dachshund Walk is held. No registration necessary
For More Information Email: keywestdachshundwalk@gmail.com
Enter your pet event details at www.pupculturemagazine.com/events
or email: info@pupculturemagazine.com
DOGGIE DELICACIES
Holiday Fruitcake PHOTO BY: MICHELLE MACIRELLA
INGREDIENTS:
DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350° F 2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix together the flour, shredded coconut, ginger, cinnamon, and cranberries until combined.
n 1 cup of oat flour
n 1/4 cup local honey
n 1 cup of coconut flour
n 1 tablespoon vanilla
n 1 cup of brown rice flour n 1/2 cup applesauce n 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
n 1/2 cup dried cranberries
n 1 tablespoon cinnamon
n 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
n 1 tablespoon ginger
n 1 banana cut into small chunks
n 1/2 cup blueberries
n 1/4 cup molasses n 1/4 cup canola oil
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the molasses, canola oil, honey, blueberries, applesauce, carrots, and vanilla. 4. Pour wet mixture into the flour mixture. 5. Fold the bananas into the mixture. Note: Mixture will be thick. 6. Pour mixture into cookie cutters, bread pan, or jelly roll pan. 7. Bake for 30 minutes or until center is fully cooked.
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Gluten Free Fruitcake Recipe Provided by Andrea Thompson of Katie’s Jar. For more information on her delectable line of dog treats, please visit Katiesjar.com
PUGPOSSESSED not just for Pugs...
Dog Fashions & Artwork 585.671.2273 • www.pugpossessed.etsy.com • dthesing@rochester.rr.com www.pupculturemagazine.com | 9
GIVING BACK AND HELPING DOGS WITHOUT LEAVING YOUR HOME
Written By Carol Bryant 14 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 10 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
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s the holidays approach, dog moms and dads will count their blessings for the joys dogs bring to our lives, but many of us also pine to do something more. What about all those homeless pets who rely on us to help them find their forever homes this holiday season? A lifelong lover of canines and a pet writer by profession, I’ve found there are many actionable things we can do as dedicated pet parents to help save the lives of dogs all from the comfort of your home. There are at least four ways you can do something to give back and let dogs know that as humans, we are there for them yearround, but especially during this season of giving.
Many rescue groups are involved when customers shop so they can give a percentage of sales back to the rescue group of the customer’s choice. One caveat: Customers need to click through the actual website link for the rescue group to get the credit. For example, the Oldies but Goodies Cocker Spaniel Rescue page has a list of shopping links from which to choose. Visit www. cockerspanielrescue.com and click through the stores listed so the rescue group can benefit from your purchases. Easy, right?
Feed Your Dog
Shop
If you think one person cannot make a difference, think again. By shopping and finding out if your favorite rescue (don’t have one yet?) is involved in a “give back,” everyone wins.
Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? In this case, it is true: When you feed your dog, another dog in your area gets to eat, too. Sara Henderson knew she wanted to make the world a better place for animals — she put that phrase on a “vision board” in 2008 — and she started the process in 2009 when she founded the Pet Project Midwest. Her concept: Buy a bag of dog food, and her group will give a bag to a shelter pet in the same area where the food was bought.
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If you are anything like me, when you donate to a rescue group that is not in your area, you truly hope (and cross your paws) that the money is used to feed and save dogs affiliated with that group. Henderson and her business partner, Susan Holler, agreed, so for every bag of their BOGO Bowl dog food purchased, they ship the equivalent of the same food to a nonprofit shelter of the buyer’s choice. The food is high quality, four-star rated by Pet Food Advisor, and available in a variety of flavors.
Tell Someone
Sponsor a Dog
Many of us have a blog or a microblog, like Twitter or Facebook. Tell someone about a dog who is looking for a forever home. Let a rescue dog be your cover photo for a day, a week, an hour or two. If you have a cell phone, share a photo. Show someone you know who’s been talking about “getting that second dog” or “needing to fill a void in their heart left by the last dog they had” — show them petfinder.com, show them a dog in your area that can use their love, help, and maybe even their home. I sponsor a dog every month for $10 dollars. Instead of two packs of soda or two trips to the coffee shop, I donate to a dog rescue group. Folks who foster a dog need all the help they can get, so I know $10 a month makes a difference. I hear about the vet bills, the supplies needed, and the simple but necessary items it takes to keep a dog going until he or she finds a forever home. “A walk through the kennels, and one realizes these dogs are barking for their lives,” says Terry Humerickhouse of Gulf Coast Cocker Spaniel Rescue, summarizing why he has fostered over 150 dogs in his lifetime.
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There is a multitude of ways to assist dogs in need and adding a bit of holiday cheer from home is a “paw-fect way” to feel good and give back as you ring in the new year. n About the author: “A dog lover of the highest order,” is how Gayle King introduced Carol Bryant when she and her Cocker Spaniel appeared on Oprah Radio’s Gayle King show to dish dogs. A frequent media contributor, Carol has appeared on television, radio, and in print. As guest speaker at conferences and seminars about dog products and travel, she also has a passion for growing social media and helped one client land the “best dog blog” honor. A repeat nominee from the Dog Writers Association of America and writer for Dogster, she also works with BlogPaws pet blogger social media community and conferences and is founder of her own caninecentric magazine-style dog blog, Fidose of Reality.
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HAPPY HOWL-IDAYS COCO CHANEL BELLA
GLORY
GIDEON
GABBY
BROOKS
PHOTO WINNER DEC 2012
GIGI
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BAILEY
MILLIE
BENTLEY RAD
Next month’s theme is: “SLEEPING DOGS” Want your pup featured in the NEXT issue of Pup Culture? Email us your best “Sleeping Dog” photo to:
RUFUS
readerphotos@pupculturemagazine.com
www.pupculturemagazine.com | 15
THE NIGHT
BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Art
Dog as 16 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 2012
Photography By Michelle Macirella
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Holiday Gift Guide By Laura Kinsey
We love this easy-to-use deodorizing powder for dogs. The lavender-rosemary scent is delightful and will instantly freshen your dog’s coat. It’s the ultimate fast fix for dirty fur! $15, freshdog.com
Give your older dog the power to stand up easily and comfortably on slippery floors with Power Paws! What a simple way to enhance a dog’s quality of life! $19.99 per set at woodrowwear.com
Urban Denim pet beds from P.L.A.Y. feature a soft yet tough denim material and eco-friendly fiber fill. Sure, your lap will still be preferred, but this bed is a close second! Three sizes and two color combos available starting at $98, petplay.com
Your dog will be warm and just a little bit fancy in this Printed Corduroy Dress from Sam & Tasha. Topstitching, crocheted lace, and rhinestone button details make this outfit a year-toyear keeper. $48, samandtasha.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION 18 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 2012
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These charming bespoke dog hoodies feature the softest fleece, colorful linings, and whimsical illustrated patches for a bit of fun. What a thoughtful present for your BFF! $22, amazon.com/Yarn-Dog
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Let Thundershirt keep your dog calm and relaxed during the hustle and bustle of the season. Its gentle, hugging pressure relieves fear and anxiety caused by travel, vet visits, noisy reindeer hooves on your roof, and other stressful situations. For fearful pets, peace on Earth begins with Thundershirt. Starting at $39.95. Free Shipping! 866-892-2078, thundershirt.com
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Jaraden presents Le Petit Mon Ami Pet Carriers! Purchase until the end of December and get a free travel food pouch and water bowl set. Comes with Carrier Cooler Pad and Seat Belt Loops too! Available in black or gold. $199, jaraden.com
Charlie Chews makes handmade dog treats from low-salt nitrate-free bacon, whole-wheat flour, rolled oats, carrots, parsley and grass-fed cow heart made in Tribeca NYC with all local ingredients from the Hudson Valley! $6.50 for a 1/2 lb bag at charliechews.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION www.pupculturemagazine.com | 19
Holiday Gift Guide By Laura Kinsey
Add a sparkly statement collar and leash duo to your dog’s wardrobe this holiday season! The Remy set from Kane & Couture’s Bubba Dog collection fits the bill perfectly. Collars $30-40, Leashes $45 at kaneandcouture.com
These holiday tins from Bocce’s Bakery are the perfect gift to help any dog, naughty or nice, to celebrate the holiday season. Made only using all natural organic ingredients, Holiday Feast combines chicken, pumpkin, cranberries, and cinnamon, and Lumps of Coal boasts peanut butter and fresh blueberries. $16 each, boccesbakery.com
Break out from the masses with the Orbee-Tuff Lil’ Bulb. It’s the perfect size for your 4-legged elves. Lil’ Bulb has a lil’ Treat Spot to stuff tiny nuggets of holiday leftovers. It’s the perfect way to keep Bitsy busy after a big feast. This adorable toy is made from Orbee-Tuff material, which makes it doggiedurable, buoyant, bouncy and mint-scented.$8.45, planetdog.com
Hair bows make the perfect accessory for your beloved companion! In addition to including a non-slip grip interior grip to ensure your bow will stay in place, each bow is handmade in the USA using Swarovski elements. Available in three sizes and countless styles, from $7-9 each at puppykisses.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION
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Go ahead and let your dog play some reindeer games, these reindeer dog toys can take it! These fabric dog toys are ready for some serious ruff and tumble fun. Velvety soft pelts encompass recycled fiber fill and a robust sewn in squeaker to make this beautiful stocking stuffer for your favorite dog. Comes in 2 color choices and 2 sizes. $11 - 15.90, westpawdesign.com
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Meadow Rug is your pet’s new favorite hangout spot and a fun accent piece to any surrounding environment. It’s lightweight, durable, and fully machine washable.$100, wildebeest.co
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This adorable preppy sweater is the perfect outfit to help your dog celebrate the winter months. Stylish and functional, your dog will be warm and fashionable. $45, fabdog.com
These wines with custom labels from A Dog’s Life combines the best of two of life’s favorite things: wines and canines. Their wine is produced in the legendary California central coast and is 100% natural. It’s the sophisticated way to celebrate our four-legged friends. $19.97, adogslife.net
SPECIAL PROMOTION www.pupculturemagazine.com | 21
Before
Things To Consider
Gifting Written by MaryAnn Aquilino
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any advertisements show holiday gatherings full of families enjoying the festivities; many also include animals in these ads, or the gifting of animals to children as part of the ad. While it may all look touching and adorable, the reality can be quite different. Choosing to add an animal to your life is a big decision requiring a lot of thought, research, and consideration. Pets require a lot of time and responsibility, including daily time together, food, obedience and potty training, socialization, vet bills, pet sitters, walkers, or kennels, grooming, and more. All of this responsibility requires a commitment that can last anywhere from 8 to 20 years. While it may seem to be a wonderful gesture to give your child, your spouse/significant other, an older family member or friend, a warm, adorable bundle of love as a surprise present, it’s not the best way for the animal to be brought into a loving home. Bringing an animal into a home should be a joint decision, made after those involved in caring for the pet have educated themselves on what breed best fits into their lifestyle, knowing what responsibilities are involved, and committed to keeping 22 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 2012
A Pet
those responsibilities. The people who will be responsible for the pet should be the ones choosing the pet. Pets are loving, living creatures who aren’t returnable if they “don’t fit” or are the wrong color or size. Unfortunately, once the realization of the responsibilities involved hits — usually after the pet has been brought home and been there for a few days or weeks — many have ended up in shelters, and those who don’t find new homes are usually euthanized. In just one example, after the movie 100 Dalmatians was released in late fall of 1996, the number of Dalmatians (most received for the holidays) ending up in shelters within six months to a year went up 25%. The Humane Society of Boulder, Colorado and Tampa Bay saw a 310% and 762% increase in the breed, respectively. In 1998 alone, 7,661 Dalmatians passed through Southern California’s shelters, most on their way to being euthanized. The holiday season is an especially bad time to bring a new pet home as the general chaos of the season doesn’t allow them time to get acclimated and for a routine to be set. It also doesn’t give them what they need most — your time and attention. In
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addition to all the entertaining, decorating, visiting, and running errands we all do on the holidays, who has any extra time, energy or attention to spare for a new pet who deserves it? Bringing home a new pet is not much different than bringing home a new baby. Both need a routine, both do better without chaos going on, and both require time and responsibility for their care and well-being. While cats may be a little easier when it comes to things like potty-training and feeding, dogs need structure; they need to be fed at certain times and walked regularly so they learn where to go and where not to go potty. Dogs also need attention; if they become bored they can become destructive. They’re not eating your shoes or walls because they’re bad dogs; dogs are social animals and they simply need the attention of their human companions more than cats usually do. If they are left alone with nothing to keep them occupied, a bored dog will sometimes entertain themselves with whatever is handy. Believing that children will bear the responsibility for caring for the pet is a fallacy many adults fall for. Sometimes it’s hard to get one’s spouse to take a little responsibility for a pet. But it’s hard to resist the pleading from one’s child and promises that they’ll do everything for the pet every day, without fail. Children get bored easily and lose interest; once the monotony or the lack of fun of daily care and feeding becomes reality, they find other things they’d rather do than walk the dog ‘again’. Children need help learning how to train a pet, and many children need to learn how to behave around animals and how
to treat them. So it falls to the adult to do this and many times the adults in the home become the one actually taking care of the pet, many times begrudging the responsibility and ignoring the pet otherwise, and training usually falls to the wayside. This snowballs into too many pets getting turned into shelters because of their behavior; behavior their owner won’t put up with anymore but didn’t bother to get training for. None of this is the pet’s fault, but they’re the ones who pay a heavy price for it. If you really must give a pet for the holidays, do it in a way that will benefit all of you, including the pet. Give a gift that prolongs the holiday season and giving, one you will fulfill after the holidays are over and the research has been done on what pet best fits the lifestyle of the new owner(s)-to-be. Wrap up a book on the different breeds of pet under consideration and then spend time looking it over together to decide which breed is a good fit. Then visit a shelter together and see what’s available; many great pets are found in shelters, some pure bred and some are mixed. When researching a mixed breed, check the breed descriptions for the breeds making up the mix to get an idea of what traits the pet may likely have. Fostering pets is another way to decide if a pet or a specific breed is right at this time. You and the animal both benefit as they will have a loving home until they find a forever home, and you will have time to evaluate if now is the right time to have a pet or this particular breed works for you or not. There are many rescue groups in need of foster homes, so if you’re looking for a particular breed this may be a good option for you. It’s a great way to help a pet in need and get a taste of the responsibilities involved in caring for a pet. When you go to purchase your pet, choose where you go wisely. Buying from a pet store encourages backyard breeders who generally breed unhealthy pets. You’re not saving the pet you purchase from the pet store as much as you’re opening up a spot for another pet from another backyard breeder. This perpetuating the ongoing breeding of pets who many times are ill or have bad genetic health problems and who often times end up in shelters. It’s a sad life for many of these animals, and while it’s heartbreaking to walk away from that cute face in the pet store, it’s saving more pets from going through this ordeal. Check your local shelters and rescue groups for great pets, and contact reputable breeders. And always spay and neuter your pets; it’s the right thing to do for them, and for you.
Photo by Michelle Macirella
24 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 2012
Yes. It’s for the Dog. (now look who’s begging) www.abarkersdozen.com
THE GREY COTTAGE pet spa & boutique
Dog & Cat Grooming Paws For A Moment 585.329.2162 • www.thegreycottage.com www.pupculturemagazine.com | 35
BEHAVIOR/TRAINING BEHAVIOR/TRAINING
TOP TIPS TO MAKING YOUR POTTY TRAINING EXPERIENCE A SUCCESS.
P O TNTI NYG TRAI
101 S, CDT CTDI
E BY KIM MAY
s the holidays grow closer and many families welcome new furkid additions to their homes, there is no subject I get more questions on than the process of potty training. While I feel I could write an entire book on the subject, in this article I am going to give you some of the top tips to making your potty training experience a success.
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Scheduling Potty training is almost entirely about scheduling. Make sure you start your new puppy on a ‘new born baby’ type of schedule. Food, water, playtimes, nap times, walk times, etc., should be as regulated as possible. A pup with a loose-goose schedule that fluctuates day-to-day is going to take a longer time getting with your program.
will cause most puppies to poop more since their system does not process them as well. Always schedule your feeding times. Feed at the same time each day. Leave the bowl down for a maximum of 20 minutes. If they don’t eat during that time, pick the food up and add it to the next meal. If it is not eaten by the end of the day then discard the food. Be cautious with treats and chewies.
Food & TREATS
A teething puppy might cause you to make poor choices when buying products to chew on so read your labels just like you do with their food. Try to provide more non-edible bones, such as Nylabone products, instead of edibles.
Be particular of what kind of products your dog is consuming.
SLEEPING QUARTERS
The tighter the schedule, the quicker you will be able to distinguish when your dog needs to eliminate.
Avoid foods with high concentrations of grains such as corn, wheat, and soy. Grains are commonly used as fillers and
For potty training purposes, the smaller the area the better. The ideal space would allow them to
turn around and lie down comfortably without extra roaming room such as in a crate. If they have to ‘hold it’ until they are out of this confinement, they will start to develop bladder and bowel control at an earlier time.
WATER When you are potty training, water should be regulated. Let the pup drink their fill then pick it up and take your pooch out for a walk soon after. Offer water any time the puppy is playing hard and you think they need it or when they eat (to help wash down their food). Once your puppy is potty trained, you can leave the water down all the time if you prefer.
POTTY WALKS Puppies need a lot of structure on their potty walks. It’s a big, new world out there and a distracted puppy is not going to go to the bathroom. They will most likely wait and go in a quiet spot inside your home! To deter this behavior make sure you follow these steps: n Always take your puppy on a leash to their potty spot, show them the designated area and tell them ‘Go Potty’.
n Make sure play areas and potty areas are two separate places. When you are in the potty area, it is all business. n And of course, reward your puppy as soon as he/she goes in the yard. Waiting to give a treat until you go inside is not rewarding potty training and will not expedite your process.
HOW TO HANDLE POTTY IN THE HOUSE In the first few weeks of potty training there is bound to be an accident here or there. If you see your puppy starting to go in the house, make your correction short and sweet. A firm ‘no’ is all you need and then quickly get the pup to the appropriate spot. If they finish in the right spot, reward them with a treat. If they are scared to go in front of you then potty training is going to be a long, hard process. Don’t be overwhelming in your correction. The key to all this is catching every accident. If you catch 9 out of 10 accidents, get your puppy to the correct spot and reward, the potty training process will go quickly. If you were only to catch 5 out of 10 they might still be confused, causing the process to be much longer.
“A firm ‘no’
is all you need and then quickly get the pup to the appropriate spot.” The rule of thumb is: If you can catch it, you can do something about it. If you don’t you’ll have to clean it up and hope you catch the next one.
ENLIST A TRAINER’S HELP Seek out a positive reinforcement trainer in your area. They will be able to break down your schedule, find the problem areas and give you a game plan for fixing the problem. n
TRAVEL/LEISURE
28 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 2012
PHINEAS SWANN BED & BREAKFAST A DOG & OWNER DREAM VACATION DESTINATION Written By Gabriella Martinez| Photography Provided By Phineas Swann
N
estled in the heart of historic Montgomery, Vermont lays a dog lovers dream vacation spot: Phineas Swann Bed and Breakfast. It’s not everyday that you see inns and B&Bs encouraging owners to bring their dogs with them, but Phineas Swann does. They are among the most pet-friendly bed and breakfasts on the east coast. Formerly working in the finance industry, owners Jay Kerch and John Perkins always knew they wanted to own a bed and breakfast. So eight years ago, when opportunity knocked, they did just that and became owners of Phineas Swann Bed and Breakfast. Knowing how hard it is to find luxurious, pet-friendly rooms and being avid dog owners themselves, they decided Phineas Swann would also welcome four-legged guests of any size and shape. In fact, six of their nine rooms are pet friendly and there is no extra cost to have your dog with you. If you are going out for the night, no worries, the inn also provides free dog walking. If you should require pet-sitting services, they can refer you to pet sitters in the area. Each canine guest also receives handmade dog treats personalized with their name. Both Jay and John live on the premises with their three dogs: two West Highland Terriers named Emma and Bobo and an English Bulldog named Phinnie (who is named after the inn). So when you visit the inn, you will have a furry entourage to meet you. Each room comes with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and individually controlled air conditioning. Their Honeymoon and Bulldog Suites are their larger rooms; the Bulldog Suite has two bedrooms and a living room. They also have one-bedroom apartments in the River House Suites. In addition to the standard amenities, each suite has a full kitchen, private hot tub and fireplace. All the rooms have dog beds, bowls, dog towels, dog biscuits in jars and poop bags. Should you forget to pack anything, the inn can also supply extra leashes, lint removers, shammy mittens for cleaning their feet and more. “Pretty much the only thing our guests need to bring is the dog
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42 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 30 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
food itself. It’s hard to pack that stuff so we sort of take the burden off of people,” said Jay Peak, one of the owners. Dog décor is seen throughout the inn from pillows to pictures and figurines. In fact, Jay owns the nation’s largest collection of antique dog figurines. “I have about 18,000 figurines,” he explains. “I would say at anyone time in the main room there is probably 3,000 dogs displayed in the house and then of course, all the rooms have dogs too.” Being the parents of two rescue dogs, Jay and John also realize the importance of supporting pet-related charities. “We donate a lot of money to rescues. About $10,000 a year to pet charities and rescues as well as free rooms for raffles or
silent auctions,” said Jay. “As a matter of fact, that is the only type of charities we donate to.” During your stay, Jay points out there are plenty of pet-friendly things to do, especially in the summer and fall. Visitors enjoy hiking and skiing in the surrounding areas as well as exploring the streets of historic Montgomery. If you are looking for a romantic setting for your wedding, look no further. Phineas Swann hosts several weddings a year at their beautiful location. Best of all, since they are pet-friendly, your dog can join in the festivities too. “We’re not just pet friendly, we’re pet-centric. It’s all about the dogs,” Jay said. Phineas Swann Bed and Breakfast is definitely a top vacation spot where both you and your pup can enjoy a getaway filled with pampering and relaxation. Editor’s Note: As a special treat to Pup Culture readers, Phineas Swann is offering 10% off your stay. Make sure to say you heard about them from Pup Culture when you make your reservation.
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Written By MaryAnn Aquilino
T
he holidays are coming and plants, trees, wreaths, centerpieces, and garlands are a few of the components of decorating for the upcoming celebrations. While they’re a great way to dress up the house, many of these are poisonous to your pets. Toxicity can range from severe to mild; from stomach upset to seizures, coma, and death. The amount consumed by your pet may determine how sick your pet might get, putting puppies at greater risk. Many dogs like to investigate new things, and with their acute sense of smell, new plants can interest them to the point of taking a taste or consuming the whole thing.
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The safest way to ensure your pet doesn’t eat toxic live plants and trees is to not bring them into the house. There are many fake versions that look very realistic, and you can re-use them every year, so your pets are safer and you save money. But if you do bring live plants and trees into your home, take care where you place them. High shelves or mantles work well for plants, and if you can’t keep the room with your tree closed off to your pet there are many gates on the market that can be used around the tree to keep them away. The gates will also protect the presents under the tree from curious dogs. Anchoring your tree to the wall or ceiling is also a good idea; this will protect both pets and kids.
Keeping toxic plants and trees inaccessible to your pet is a preventive measure that only you, their trusted guardian, can easily do by managing your environment. But if, in spite of all you do, your dog does ingest one of these toxic plants, trees, or tree water, contact your vet or poison control immediately for information on what you need to do to help your pet. Listed are some of the decorative plants found during the holidays and the possible impact they can have on your pet if ingested.
PINE AND EVERGREEN Pine and evergreen trees are toxic. The oils can irritate the mouth and stomach, and cause drooling and vomiting, while the needles can cause vomiting, gastrointestinal irritation, obstruction, and punctures. Trees sprayed with a flame retardant can be more toxic than those without. More toxic is the water the trees are placed in, as it can contain bacteria, mold, or fertilizers which can harm your dog. The all parts of the Yew evergreen are very toxic, causing breathing difficulties, uncontrollable trembling, vomiting, and death. While yew trees are commonly not used in the home, the boughs are sometimes used in floral arrangements.
LILIES AND DAFFODILS Amaryllis, daffodil, and narcissus bulbs and leaves can cause abdominal pain, cardiac arrhythmias, convulsions, and death. Other toxic flowering plants seen during the holidays are Cyclamen, Chrysanthemum, Christmas rose, Christmas cactus, and Jerusalem cherry. All can cause symptoms ranging from nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to convulsions, paralysis, and death.
POINSETTIA The sap, and leaves are considered mildly toxic and can cause nausea or vomiting; the sap can also cause an itchy rash. While mildly toxic, it’s best to be cautious and keep pets away from the poinsettia.
MISTLETOE AND HOLLY Both are considered moderately to severely toxic. Mistletoe, both the Phoradendron and Viscum species, can cause blurred vision, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood pressure changes, and death; all parts of the plant are toxic. Holly, of the Ilex species, can cause death; the bark, leaves, seeds and berries are all toxic, as they all contain Theobromine, a compound also found in chocolate, though Holly contains much more.
Sweet Annie or Wormwood (Artemisia) All parts of this plant are toxic; the sap can cause redness, itching and blisters, while ingesting the leaves can includes symptoms of gastritis and oral irritation, dizziness, drooling, diarrhea, loss of coordination, and coma.
CROWN of THORNS All parts of the plant are poisonous, and drying does not destroy toxicity. The sap can cause severe blistering and severe irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, which can include hemorrhage and diarrhea. Other symptoms include intense pain to the eyes or open wounds, swelling about the eyes and mouth, excessive salivation and emesis, abdominal pain and weakness; it may also cause dermatitis.
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Bittersweet Also used in floral arrangement and wreaths, it decreases the heart rate and causes drowsiness and headaches.
BOXWOOD Often used to make wreathes and swags, it can cause stomach upset, convulsions, and severe respiratory problems.
make your own
Sup p
RIBBON COLLAR
Assorted Ribbons
(Chiffon Works Best)
A fun way to dress your dog up for the holidays or give as a stocking stuffer or gift! Written By Debra Thesing
1
s lie
1/4 inch elastic
Scissors Thread Needle
2
1. Gather your supplies and loosely measure your dog’s neck with the elastic and add an inch.
3
4
2. Stitch the two edged of the elastic together, overlapping a half inch. Note: Make sure the elastic doesn’t twist. 3. Cut eight inch lengths of ribbon, making the ends diagonal. 4. Tie ribbon onto the elastic and pull it fairly tight. 5. Continue to add ribbon until you have filled the elastic and fluff! Note: This is not to be used in place of a dog collar.
36 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 2012
PRODUCT REVIEW
Rescue Chocolate:
Mission Feral Fig, Peanut Butter Pit Bull & Fosterific Peppermint
Written & Photographed by Gabriella Martinez The last thing I needed was an excuse to feed my chocolate addiction, but the folks over at Rescue Chocolate gave me just that (I may have to actually start going to the gym now). Not only does their chocolate taste incredible, but Rescue Chocolate donates 100% of net proceeds to animal rescue organizations around the country. Eating chocolate while helping animal organizations? Sign me up. Each of their flavors represents a different animal-related cause. I received Mission Feral Fig, which raises awareness about feral cat colonies; Peanut Butter Pit Bull, which helps to try and shed light on the unfortunate stereotype that Pit Bulls have; and Foster-iffic Peppermint, which stresses the importance of fostering pets. All of their chocolates are 100% vegan, Kosher, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free and Gluten-Free. If you do have any allergies that you may be concerned about, see the packaging or contact the company for ‘may contain’ labeling and manufacturing processes. For this review, I was able to try their Foster-iffic Peppermint, Peanut Butter Pit Bull, and Mission Feral Fig Bars. The Foster-iffic Peppermint was excellent. While I am not usually a dark chocolate fan, I loved this. It was not too bitter, not too minty. This was an excellent bar that would appeal to many on your gift list. For you peanut butter lovers out there, the Peanut Butter Pit Bull was also delicious. The center is somewhat like a peanut butter cup, but softer with a slight cocoa flavor. It also had light crispies throughout the mixture (pure genius!). My particular favorite was their Mission Feral Fig. It’s dark chocolate with mission figs, cranberries and almonds, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and fleur de sel. The flavors meshed perfectly and let’s just say, there was no way I was sharing that bar with anyone. Rescue chocolate is excellent chocolate for an excellent cause and the perfect gift for my dog-loving (and chocolate-loving) friends and family.
For more information on Rescue Chocolate visit www.rescuechocolate.com 38 | PUPCULTURE DECEMBER 2012
Happy Tails Pet Grooming, LLC.
MaryAnn Aquilino Certified Professional Groomer 3180 Latta Road (Located in Ricci’s Restaurant Plaza) Rochester, NY 14612
585.865.3248
THE PUPCULTURE LIST
8
REASONS
Why Your Dog Makes the Holiday Season More Fun Written By Christine White
1. He embodies the holiday spirit year round. 2.
He’ll greet your guests at the door and treat everyone like family.
3.
He’ll appreciate any gift you choose for him, it’s the thought that counts.
4.
Don’t worry about finding space for leftovers, he’ll gladly take care of them for you.
5.
If you sing a holiday tune off pitch he won’t judge, he may even join in and howl along.
6.
He’ll be there to warm your heart and your feet while you wrap presents.
7.
You never have to worry about throwing a dull holiday party. His energy and genuine spirit will keep the party going and your guests at ease.
8.
You’ll never have to pose for a holiday photo alone. He’ll gladly be the center of attention and take the focus off you (and that piece of broccoli stuck in your tooth).
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MAGAZINE
PUPCULTURE
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We can’t buy
your love But we can sure come close to it!
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