Pup Culture Magazine -- January/February 2013 by PUP CULTURE

PUPCULTURE January/February 2013 | www.pupculturemagazine.com

MAGAZINE

NEW BEGINNINGS

Four-Legged

Matchmaker s

GIFT IDEAS

FOR DOG LOVERS

a new beginning

FOR PIERRE

5 WAYS YOUR DOG CAN HELP YOU FIND LOVE

Eric Ladin

CHARMED BY CHANCE

HOMEMADE CINNAMON ROLLS

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

24 COVER STORY 24

ERIC LADIN Charmed by Chance

DEPARTMENTS 10

FASHION Gift Ideas for Dog Lovers

FEATURES

TTOUCH A New Beginning for Training

THE MONSTER MILERS Adopt Your Next Running Buddy

GROOMING Why Regularly Grooming Your Dog is a Good Thing

A NEW BEGINNING FOR PIERRE Dog Abandoned at Petco is Given a New Leash on Life

TRAVEL & LEISURE Skijoring

FOUR-LEGGED MATCHMAKERS The Key to a Successful Relationship is Your Dog

HEALTH & WELLNESS A New Focus on Health

BEHAVIOR & TRAINING Bring a Card or Present to a Loved One

8 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2 APRIL/MAY

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013 • NEW BEGINNINGS

36 32

44 32

DOG AS ART Animal Magnetism

RESCUE Breyden: The Story of a Bait Dog

COLUMNS 48

BIG CITY, LITTLE DOG

ADVENTURES IN PET SITTING

BARK-CETERA 4

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

CONTRIBUTORS

54 6

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DOGGIE DELICACIES: Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

READERS PET PICS: Sleeping Pups

MAKE YOUR OWN: Framed Pawprint Keepsake

ASK THE EXPERT

PRODUCT REVIEW: H4Legs: H-Leggings

THE FUNNY BONE: And the Oscar Goes to...

THE PUP CULTURE LIST:

5 Ways Your Dog Can Help You Find Love

PUP PERSONALS www.pupculturemagazine.com | 3

PUP CULTURE

MAGAZINE

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Celebrating Canine Culture

Welcome to the January/February “New Beginnings” issue of Pup Culture Magazine. With the new year comes the hope of new beginnings and that’s what this issue is dedicated to: whether it be love, a resolution to start better habits, or welcoming a new furry family member. We are excited to introduce you to actor, Eric Ladin, who plays Jamie Wright, the campaign manager on The Killing (page 24). Eric talks about his life, his career, and how he found the perfect dog, Chance who he adopted into his family. You will also see the story of Pierre, a little French Bulldog, who was abandoned in a Petco restroom, but thanks to his rescuers has been given a new leash on life (page 36). Be sure to also take at look at the article about Monster Milers on page 18, an organization dedicated to helping shelter dogs while they await their future homes by matching them up with a running buddy. Then in the Four-Legged Matchmakers article on page 44 you can read the stories of two couples who found lasting love through their doggie matchmakers. We hope you will also enjoy Dog As Art on page 32. In this issue Contributing Photographer, Julie Clegg presents “Animal Magnetism” a photo editorial featuring the magnetic affection between dogs and their loved ones. 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.

PUPCULTURE

MAGAZINE

NEW BEGINNINGS

Four-Legged

Matchmaker s

GIFT IDEAS

FOR DOG LOVERS

5 WAYS YOUR DOG CAN HELP YOU FIND LOVE

Eric Ladin

CHARMED BY CHANCE

Contributing Editors Michelle Macirella Design & Production Gabriella Martinez Monica Cevallos Photo Editor Michelle Macirella Contributing Writers MaryAnn Aquilino Rebecca Astheimer Carol Giotto Laura Kinsey Gabriella Martinez Nicole Pajer Kim Mayes Elaine Webster Alecia Evans Christine White

Contributing Photographers Julie Clegg, Bailey & Banjo Pet Photography Michelle Macirella, Luminaria Photography Sharon Hardy, Sweet Potato 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.

January/February 2013 | www.pupculturemagazine.com

a new beginning

Editor-in-Chief Gabriella Martinez

Cheers!

Gabriella

FOR PIERRE

Publisher Avant-Bark Media

ON THE COVER

Eric Ladin & Chance Photo by Sharon Hardy

HOMEMADE CINNAMON ROLLS

Grooming for Chance Ladin by Randi Star, Tailwashers www.tailwaggerspets.com

4 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

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.

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 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, Design & Production

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 award-winning 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Carol Giotto, Contributing Writer (TTouch)

Sharon Hardy, Contributing Photographer

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.

Sharon Hardy is the owner & photographer of Sweet Potato Pet Photos in Los Angeles. She especially loves capturing that special bond between pets and their humans. Before working as a full-time pet photographer, she worked in the TV industry for 14 years, mostly with Conan O’Brien, and studied film & television at New York University. She currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband and awesome rescue pug, Chubs

Rebecca Astheimer, Contributing Writer

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

JANUARY/ FEBRUARY

CALENDAR O F

EVENTS

JAN 30th

Purina Pro Plan Canine Combine

FEB 2nd

Southern California Pet Expo Long Beach, CA

New Orleans, LA

11AM - 12:30PM

This made-for-media performance will incredible dog competitors, performing a variety of jaw-dropping athletic feats all within a football-themed performance venue.

For More Information: 973-477-9394 or lwilliams@ catalystpublicrelations.com

FEB 7th

Grrrrrls Night Out Chicago, IL

FEB 3rd

Super Bowl/ Puppy Bowl Party Rochester, NY

10AM - 6PM

Check out a special appearance by SHORTY ROSSI and his pit bull, Hercules, star of ‘Pit Boss’ on Animal Planet, 100 pet-friendly exhibitors, live demos, low-cost vaccines, giveaways, discounts on your favorite pet products, contests, retailers, plus a mega-adoption event.

For More Information: www.socalpetexpo.com

FEB 9th

The NYC Doggies and Tiaras Pageant

Starts at 5:30PM

Richmond’s Tavern goes to the dogs when they host a Super Bowl Party to benefit local dog organization, Pitty Love Rescue. Pitty Love will hold a 50/50 raffle, and partygoers will also have a chance to win a special piece of dog-themed jewelry, courtesy of Trilliant Jewelers in Irondequoit.

For More Information: www.RichmondsTavern.com

Want Your Pet Related Event Listed?

New York, NY

6PM - 9PM

5:30-9PM

ALIVE Rescue’s “Grrrrrls Night Out” event is just in time for Valentine’s Day! Grab your friends and head to G boutique for a night of fun, shopping, hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and a fabulous silent auction. The first 25 ladies will receive a deluxe Stayin’ ALIVE gift bag.

The pageant will feature designs by Roberto Negrin, and celebrity guests as judges. Proceeds from the independently produced pageant will benefit Inky Blue Sea Animal Rescue. Purchase tickets at Eventbrite, starting at $30.

For More Information: www.aliverescue.org

For More Information: www.facebook.com/ DoggiesAndTiarasPageant

6 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

Enter your pet event details at www.pupculturemagazine.com/events

or email: info@pupculturemagazine.com

DOGGIE DELICACIES

HOMEMADE CINNAMON ROLLS

Photo By Michelle Macirella

DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. In a large bowl, mix together the oat flour, unsweetened applesauce, water and egg until dough forms. 3. Roll out dough into 1/4â&#x20AC;? thick, rectangle shape. 4. Spread honey on top and sprinkle with cinnamon. 5. Roll dough tightly into a log. Cut slices to desired thickness with a serrated knife. 6. Place on cookie sheet swirl side up. Reshape into circles if needed. 7. Bake for 30 minutes or until firm and golden brown. 8. Cool completely on a wire rack and serve to hungry puppies.

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INGREDIENTS: n 2 1/2 cups of oat flour n 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce n 1/2 cup of water n 1 egg n 2 tablespoons of honey n 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

DOG-GONE DELICIOUS RECIPE CONTEST

WINNING RECIPE WILL BE FEATURED IN OUR MARCH/APRIL FOOD ISSUE!

To Enter Visit: www.PupCultureMagazine.com/recipecontest

FASHION

1 3

5 4 LT U

RE MA

GA NE

PRODUCTS WE DIG V

JAN/FEB 2013

OF APPRO

GIFT IDEAS FOR

DOG LOVERS

Stop it right there! You do NOT need to give an “I heart Chihuahuas” embroidered sweatshirt to your mother, your sister, or your best friend just because they love dogs. Here are seven much better gift ideas to help you show a little Valentine’s day affection to the pet lovers in your life. — Laura Kinsey

1. This sporty-chic canvas carry-all from Found My Animal is a great gift for your friend who takes her pup everywhere. Plus, this company is super active in the rescue & animal charity world - supporting them helps them support a worthy cause in return. Double love! Available in three sizes, starting at $85. foundmyanimal.com 2. It’s official: every member of the Pup Culture staff would be thrilled to receive these cute dachshund-print linen shoes as a Valentine’s gift. Available in red or pale blue, £90. mandarinashoes.co.uk 3. Illustrator Erin Flett’s Bruiser the Pup print is a charming, affordable piece of artwork for any dog lover in your life, starting at $30. See her full range of prints at erinflett.com 4. Not to be a downer, but spring (and spring rain!) is right around the corner from Valentine’s Day. Stand out of the pack with this adorable Chihuahua-printed umbrella, $32. fuzzynation.com 5. Dogs really are so thoughtful; they will fetch your newspaper, keep your lap warm, and even create a keepsake painting for you. Best Valentine ever, $19.99 artcasso.com 6. Looking for something really special? These wire dog sculptures from artist Rodger Stevens might fit the bill. Made specifically for Jonathan Adler, each piece is unique and individual. Several breed styles available, $250. jonathanadler.com

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7. Show your love for your dog (and your bike!) on your arm with Tattly’s temporary tattoos. Breed specific styles also available, $5. tattly.com

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TTouch®

What is TTouch ? The Tellington TTouch or TTouch was developed by Linda Tellington Jones. TTouch is made up of ground work (or the confidence course), body work and leash work. TTouch can be used to address a number of behavior issues as well as to benefit general well-being. To find out more about TTouch or to find a practitioner in your area visit

www.ttouch.com

A New View On Training Written by Carol Giotto

lthough I have had dogs most of my life, I had not actually gone through any formal

obedience training until we got out first Mastiff. At the time, we weren’t linked into any dog community in our area, so we asked a couple people we knew about dog training classes and signed up for a class at a local training center. I wasn’t sure what to expect from class, but I knew I needed my dog to listen to me and to do what I asked of her. We started class and I almost dropped out the first day. The class started by fitting a choke collar on my dog and I was instructed to “correct” my dog (pull sharply on the leash) anytime she didn’t do what I had asked. The idea was that she would start to listen to me in order to avoid the discomfort of being “corrected”. I had no idea this was what dog training was all about. I thought class was something fun we were going to do together. We tried some other instructors and training centers, but it was always the same approach or worse. This was over 20 years ago and positive training wasn’t mainstream yet. Instead of enjoying class with my dog, I began to dread it. I needed my dog to listen to me, but I

12 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

didn’t want to hurt her and didn’t want her to become afraid of me.

and listen.

One day in my quest of finding something different, I came across an informational session on Tellington Touch Training. I was immediately drawn to the description of building a relationship with my dog based on trust and respect.

I was introduced to clicker training. This was the final piece to the training puzzle—I finally had all the tools I needed to work with my dogs. I found by using positive methods for obedience along with TTouch, I was able to effectively train my dog without fear or force. It was such a light bulb moment for me. Reward my dog for doing something right instead of punishing it for doing something wrong. This was exactly the training makeover I was looking for.

I was cautiously optimistic since this didn’t sound like the classes I had been attending. I was skeptical that it would truly be different. I went from that first info session, to a weekend workshop, to hosting a weekend workshop at my house, to eventually going through the training program, so I could become a companion animal practitioner. A key difference I experienced with TTouch compared to the first class 20 years ago, was that the work was enjoyable for both me and my dog. There was no pain involved and I wasn’t asked to punish my dog. The work was all about building a relationship. I learned how to read my dog’s body language, release stress and tension in her body, and help her to build selfconfidence. I used TTouch to get her into a state where she was ready to learn

It was during my TTouch training that

I have been practicing TTouch and using positive training methods for over 10 years. Since I own English Mastiffs, each of my dogs weigh more than I do, so I know I will never be able to force my dogs to do something. Therefore, it is imperative they respect me enough to do what I am asking of them. TTouch has helped me to build that relationship with my dogs. I truly feel that we are a team in all that we do. n

GROOMING Dog grooming isn’t a matter of looking good, it’s a matter of your dog’s health, comfort, and wellbeing. Just as we wouldn’t neglect our own grooming, we shouldn’t neglect the grooming our pets need.

Written by MaryAnn Aquilino

egular grooming is an important necessity for many reasons. It maintains the dog’s coat keeping it shiny, healthy, and mat-free. Grooming can also aid in monitoring the dog’s health, since the groomer will see any cuts, sores, swelling, growths, or changes in temperament, which can all be indicative of illness. Groomers have the proper tools and training to thoroughly remove undercoat, loose hair, and cleanse skin to decrease shedding and dander. They can also alert you to illnesses such as ear infections, tooth decay and skin cancer as well as parasitic infestations that can transmit disease to people. Your groomer may be the first to see problems and bring them to your attention so they can be attended to promptly. Dogs can experience similar health problems we humans do. Unclean ears can get infected; overgrown toenails can cause difficulty walking, pain, and eventually contribute to the development of arthritis—they can even grow into the pads of the foot. In addition, their coat can become matted, which can lead to unhealthy or tearing of the skin and restriction of movement. A dog may not be able to regulate their own temperature. A dirty coat may cause itching and scratching, which can lead to abrasions that can become infected. All of these things, and others, can be prevented with proper, regular grooming. Some pets may only need to go to a professional groomer a couple of times a year when they are shedding their winter and summer coats, or ‘blowing coat’. These breeds include shorthaired dogs such as Labs, Pit Bulls, Dobermans, Dalmatians, and Beagles. Taking them in to a professional groomer when they’re blowing coat will help to remove a lot of hair that’s

14 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

being shed all over your house. Regular nail trims are also essential, usually every 4 to 6 weeks. If you’re unable to trim your dogs nails yourself, many groomers offer this as a standalone service for a small fee. Other breeds, whose hair continues to grow, such as ShihTzus, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Cocker Spaniels, and Poodles, need regular grooming, which can vary from every 4 weeks to every 10 weeks. How often you need to visit a professional groomer depends on the hair style you want your dog to have and how much time you’re willing to spend on maintaining their coat in between grooming visits. Maintaining your pet’s coat will not only help prevent or spot issues if they occur, but it is a great bonding time for you and your pet. Plus, it will also cut down on the cost of grooming as a matted dog costs more to groom than an unmatted one. While some loose mats can be combed out, most groomers will not try to comb out mats close to the skin. That can be torturous for the animal, and almost impossible to accomplish without spending numerous hours dematting. The kindest thing to do is to cut or clip the mats out. While you may not want this to be done, it’s the safest, kindest, and best thing for your dog and their hair will grow back. Grooming your pet is as much a preventative measure as a yearly checkup is for ourselves. Since dogs can’t groom themselves or drive themselves to the groomers, it’s up to us, their human companions, to do this for them. It’s an essential part of responsible dog ownership and just as important as providing them good food and water, training, visits to the vet, and the appropriate vaccinations. n

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TRAVEL/LEISURE

SKIJORING A Fun Winter Activity For Fido And You Written By Rebecca Astheimer

When winter rolls around, routine walks with our pets can seem like a bit of a chore. If you find the idea of a monotonous walk in the freezing cold daunting, your dog probably does too. Why not give the two of you an experience to try something entirely unique? One of the biggest pet-owner winter crazes is skijoring (you know, like skiing… except with dogs), and it’s becoming a more and more accessible sport each year. In the past, most people have associated skijoring with races that require intense training. With the right equipment, however, it can quickly be turned in a unique and fun way to hit the slopes for anyone and their pet. Skijoring, unlike sled racing, is typically done with one to three pets, so you also don’t have worry about enlisting a whole crew of dogs in order to enjoy the experience. To begin, you’ll need the basic equipment: skis, a belt for the skier, a harness for the dog, a line, and some bungees to help control your pet’s direction. Equipment prices range from $80-150, depending on the number of dogs you’re skiing with and the quality of products you’re interested in purchasing. Skijoring guides and equipment can be purchased at local sports stores or from a variety of websites online, such as thedogoutdoors.com, ultradog.com, or rei.com. Getting an untrained dog with a bunch of bungees attached to them to pull you down a hill can be a bit difficult, so if you’re interested in skijoring, it’s wise to invest in some form of training. Fortunately, classes are relatively inexpensive and don’t need to be continued once you and your dog get the hang of things. Classes also help train your dogs to follow commands—a helpful skill that will help you control your pet off the slopes as well as on. In addition, tutorials online can help skijoring rookies learn how to properly harness their dog and teach the art of the sport to themselves and their pet. Conventionally, larger dogs are the most effective ski drivers, since they are simply stronger and are able to carry more weight (don’t expect your Pomeranian to pull you down

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a hill!). However, a few medium sized dogs and a whole lot of energy can also be just as effective. Generally speaking, if your dog is over 35 lbs and in good health, they can handle an afternoon of skijoring in the park. The key is to make sure your dog is not exhausted or strained. Keep an eye on your pet and be sure to take breaks, both to rest and for water. When shopping for your pet, make sure they are fully equipped to handle the cold. Remember, their bare paws can get cut on rocks or ice, and it’s a good idea to provide booties to help protect them when running long distances in the cold. Most local pet stores sell such products, along with sensible jackets to keep your dog comfortable and warm. If you’re looking for places to take your pet skijoring, locations for cross-country skiers are good options. The idea is to look for places where your dog has a great deal of open space, interesting scenery, and established, flat trails. Keep in mind the fact that downward slopes can be dangerous to both you and your pet (especially for beginners) and be wary of locations where there are large amounts of people (imagine the disaster of a harness, dog legs, and people all tumbling down a hill together!). If you’re interested in competing in races, the Sled Dog Racing Association and the International Federation of Sled Dog Sports holds various races throughout the US of varying difficulty and distances. There is even a sled racing World Cup competition that includes a men’s and women’s Nordic skijoring section if you’re feeling bold. If you’re a fan of skiing and have some high-energy pets with good concentration, skijoring is the perfect solution to combat winter walking blues. The sport is what you make of it; you can train aggressively or you can simply experiment. Buy some harnesses online and strap up your dogs for some afternoon fun in the park. It will make exercising and outdoor time seem like play time and provides both you and your dog with something to look forward to during the gloomy winter months. n

For More Information On Skijoring Visit: sleddogsport.net or isdra.org

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THE MONSTER MILERS ADOPT YOUR NEXT RUNNING BUDDY Written By Christine White

magine walking into your local animal shelter in hopes of making a difference in the lives of homeless dogs. You open the door to the shelter and your ears are inundated with barking; all eyes are on you. As you move down the narrow hallway to get a closer look at the dogs, you realize how cramped they are in their slender cages. Each dog seems to have an overabundance of energy requiring more than just a walk to temper. For those of us who have visited or volunteered at a shelter this scenario is unfortunately all too familiar. Dogs who have been cramped in a cage for an extended period of time will go “cage crazy.” They’ll bark more than usual to get attention, pull on or bite at their leash during a walk to get rid of excess energy and show other signs of unruly behavior, like jumping, as a manifestation of their unsatisfactory living circumstances. “Many of the dogs we work with are simply frantic for attention, stability and affection,” explained Carrie Maria, co-owner of the Monster Milers, an all-volunteer non-profit whose primary mission is to connect Philadelphia runners with homeless dogs as running companions. “We understand that they are just stressed from the crappy circumstances, however potential adopters may just see them as unruly

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dogs, jumping and barking in their kennels. What they don’t understand is that after a few days in a stable home environment, these dogs blossom.” Carrie’s idea for the Monster Milers grew out of her love for running and her experience as founder, owner and manager of Monster Minders, one of Philadelphia’s largest dog walking companies. As Carrie put more time into her business, she said there was less time available for her to do some of the things she enjoys most—most notably volunteering regularly at the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society. “My role as manager was morphing into more time spent working behind the computer and less time at the other end of the leash walking around the city,” explained Carrie. “So one night in late 2010 I laced up my sneaks and took my own dogs for a run. I felt more centered after just a short 20 minute jog and my dogs slept for hours afterward. Naturally my next thought was, ‘I wonder what effect this would have on shelter dogs...’ and the rest is history.” Joining the Monster Milers is simple, easy and open to anyone in the community. Carrie stated their volunteers range from young professionals to retirees. “We all have one thing in common— we love running and we love rescue,” stated Carrie.

Runners (or Milers as Carrie calls them) book a run on the organization’s website, themonstermilers.com, to let Carrie know when they’ll be at the shelter. Once they arrive at the shelter the Milers simply pick the dog they would like to take for a run, and head out for a two to six mile adventure. “The entire purpose of the running program is to work out some of their excess energy to make them more adoptable,” stated Carrie. “Just as a run calms and centers a human, it does the same for the dogs.” In addition to runners the Monster Milers also provides local shelters and rescues with publicity and financial support to aid in the adoption process, a mission that is near and dear to Carrie’s heart. “Each year in our country millions of healthy and adoptable dogs are euthanized,” said Carrie. “Why buy a pet when there are probably hundreds in your own town waiting for a lifesaver? Literally. You actually save two lives when adopting. You save the life of the dog you bring home, and the life of the dog that can be moved into that dog’s kennel at the shelter. When there aren’t enough kennels, dogs lives are at risk. The reason is simple. When you adopt, you save a life. Period.” n

To learn more about and donate to The Monster Milers please visit:

TheMonsterMilers.org

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HEALTH/WELLNESS

A New Focus On Health

5 Things You Can Do To Have a Happier, Healthier Dog An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. No truer words have been spoken. Over the last 22 years of working with canine health (or should I say dis-ease), I have learned the best way to keep your dog healthy or to rebalance their health is by going back to the basics and following the blueprint Mother Nature designed thousands of years ago.

Written by Alecia Evans 20 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

fter over two decades of observation, kinesiology testing and on the sound belief “Animals Never Lie,” (something a trusted veterinarian once told me), I have learned there are five key, foundational elements which will help keep your dog or puppy healthy, as well as restore their health if they are out of balance. Add Wet Food In the wild a dog or cat’s diet would consist of 70% moisture, 40-50% protein, 30% raw fat and 10-15% predigested carbs. Our traditional dog and cat dry diets contain 12 % moisture which creates an imbalance in their ph levels turning their bodies more acidic and forces them to drink more water than they would need to if it was coming from their food. These factors contribute to weaken their kidney at an earlier age. I like adding in raw food as well. Feed wet food daily in a ration of 55% wet 45% (or less) dry and watch your pet’s coat, eyes and vitality shine. Watch for an ease or elimination in arthritis, allergies, skin issues, stomach issues, and regeneration within days. Add High Quality Enzymes Mother Nature thinks of everything, unfortunately we humans do not. In the wild, dogs and cats would have full access to enzymes. Cooking food past 118 degrees kills the enzymes. Enzymes are the aids that assist in the first part of digestive breakdown. In the wild the first place the predator goes to is the stomach which is rich in digestive enzymes needed to assist in the breaking down of the food. Without enzymes the body must produce more hydrochloric acid to breakdown the food elevating your animal’s acid levels thus throwing the body out of balance.

would receive up to 30% raw fat intake a few times per week. Raw fat is essential for strong blood, healthy brain and heart function, shiny coats, bright eyes and to metabolize their food properly—not to mention keep them warm in winter. I suggest feeding 1 -2 raw marrow bones per week. Do not cook the bones, if they splinter—which is rare—the dog will break it down much easier than if cooked. Clean Water Without Fluoride The effects of fluoride in water are countlessly told by humans. Dogs or cats would never drink fluoride in the wild, so why do they drink it daily with us? Because they are made to. Spring water is just plain safer for our dogs and cats. Use Coconut Oil Use coconut oil on bumps, scrapes or cuts, and mouth and skin issues. Coconut is a natural anti-viral, anti-parasitic and anti-fungal agent. Skin tags, cysts, skin growths, eczema, hot spots, and gum disease—use pure coconut oil and watch them shrink or disappear in a matter of days. Rub on your pet’s gums and know their mouth will be smelling better fast. You can also offer it to your dog by mouth. If they like it they will eat it and the fat is highly beneficial for them. n Alecia Evans, is a Nationally Recognized Animal Healer, Health Expert and Holistic Dog Trainer. Alecia takes into account the Whole Animal when assessing behavioral and health issues. She is the inventor of the Walk In Sync™ Humane Dog Walking and Training System. Her work has transformed the behaviors and health of thousands of clients around the work. She has been featured on Fox and Friends, Plum TV, the Sandra Glosser Show and in Aspen Magazine, Fido Friendly, Animal Wellness Magazine, Shape and Life and Style.

When the body is too acidic a host of dis-eases crop up from arthritis, to eye issues, to stomach issues, to heart, liver, lung and kidney issues causing a much earlier breakdown of the system than would otherwise be the case. Add nutritional enzymes and watch hair and coat shine, teeth stay cleaner, stomach issues disappear, allergies go away, vitality return to your animal. I highly recommend bionutrition micro algae. (For more information visit: www.bioage.com) Raw Fat is a necessity Dogs need a good source of raw fat. Their wild relatives www.pupculturemagazine.com | 21

SLEEPING PUPS GIA MARIE

GABBY

TED BAKER QUINCY

SHADOW GUS WINSTON GIDEON

SHADOW

LOUIE

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SABLE

SCOUT

OLIVER PERCY AND MELORA LT U

RE MA

ZI NE

OT O

PHOTO CONTEST WINNER JAN/FEB 2013

KEELO AND WINSTON

LAYLA

NTEST

Next month’s theme is: “CHOW HOUNDS” Want your pup featured in the NEXT issue of Pup Culture? Email us your best “Chow Hounds” photo to:

YUNA AND TITAN

readerphotos@pupculturemagazine.com

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22 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 24 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER

Charmed by Chance

ERIC LADIN TALKS ABOUT HIS LIFE, CAREER AND FINDING THE PERFECT DOG. Written by Gabriella Martinez | Photography by Sharon Hardy

t was obvious from the first word spoken that Eric Ladin was nothing like the dark or troubled characters he tends to portray. A Texas native, acting seemed to always be a calling of Eric’s. He worked various odd jobs as he persued his acting career until his breakout role in HBO’s Generation Kill. “My grandfather used to say, ‘The ten most important two-letter words in the English dictionary are: If it is to be, it is up to me,’” Eric recalled. He is no stranger to the concept of creating your own destiny. While Eric is probably best known for his roles on Mad Men and Big Love, he has also appeared on CSI, Cold Case, The Unit and various other television series. He also played the voice of Ellis in the video game Left 4 Dead 2. Recently, he starred as Jamie Wright, the campaign manager to mayoral candidate Darren Richmond on AMC’s The Killing.

In addition to his career, Eric is also a lifelong dog-lover. “I grew up with yellow labs; I had two,” Eric said. “Then my roommate got a dog in college, so we had a dog. But yeah, I have always been a big dog lover.” Both Eric and his wife, Katy grew up with dogs, so it was only a natural progression for them to bring a dog into their family once they got married. “A rescue just felt right,” Eric said. “There are too many amazing dogs out there who need homes to turn your back on them. I would only rescue a dog from here on out.” Being advocates of adoption ourselves, it was a pleasure to speak with Eric about his life, career, and most importantly his rescue Cocker Spaniel, Chance.

PC: How did you meet your dog, Chance, and was it love at first sight? EL: Oh yeah. My wife and I had been looking for a dog and we decided we wanted to rescue. Then literally a couple days later, I got an email from a friend of mine who does fostering for a foundation called The Chris Kelly Foundation. She sent out a mass email with a picture of Chance and said ‘this dog’s looking for a home’ and I wrote back immediately and said, ‘we want him’. So we ended up going to her house and seeing him—there were a couple of other suitors as well, but after about weeks of applications, we got him. PC: How old was he when you got him? EL: Well they said Chance was one, but I think he might have been a little younger, I think was probably about six months old. But he’s been

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“He’s been just the perfect little guy to have—he’s a little angel in our lives.” just the perfect little guy to have—he’s a little angel in our lives.

PC: What is your greatest source of inspiration?

PC: How did you come up with the name Chance?

EL: My dad. I’m extremely close with my family, my parents. So he’s an inspiration to me.

EL: He was given that name when we adopted him and we just thought, you know what, we’ll just keep it. PC: What is one thing you love most about him? EL: Honestly, as cliché as it sounds, his loyalty. He doesn’t like to be without my wife or I—I think he probably knows that we rescued him. He doesn’t like to go anywhere without us. So, he’s a little dependent on us, but when we walk or anything like that or we’re playing in the park he is usually keeping a close eye on us. PC: Tell us more about Chance and how he has changed your lives. EL: As I said, there are so many amazing dogs that need a home and Chance was one of them. As great of a life as we have given him, he has given us even more, we consider him an equal in our family. I honestly can’t remember our life together without Chance. We just had our first child and after a month Chance is already protecting him and giving him lots of brotherly love.

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PC: Tell us more about your relationship with him. EL: My father and I have an incredible relationship. We talk daily on the phone and he is the person I reach out to the most for advice. He has built an amazing business that’s both successful and, most importantly, well respected within his industry. Those are traits I can only hope to achieve as I move through my career. PC: We’ve noticed you’ve played a variety of roles from campaign manager to sergeant and doctor, can you relate to any of these roles on a personal level? EL: Absolutely, I think that as an actor you have to find a way to relate to every single role on a personal level. That’s a lot of the homework before you start a job because at the end of the day you’re not really playing a doctor, you’re playing a person and you’re not really playing a sergeant, you’re playing a person who is a sergeant and so on and so forth. Really, your first job is to connect on a personal level with the character you’re playing. The profession they

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neat format and a format that is not on TV’. It was a show that, when I read it, I knew, whether or not I am a part of it, I will be a fan of the show. And I think they will do what other shows have done that similarly take an entire season to solve a case or a crime, much like a Damages or Dexter usually has one antagonist throughout a whole season, but then they kind of move onto another one. So, I guess what I see happening with The Killing is similar to what they did with the Danish format because it’s a show based on the Danish format show called Forbrydelsen, but they will kind of move onto another case. PC: Tell us, what it takes to become a successful actor? EL: Determination, perseverance, confidence and a little bit of luck. PC: How do you maintain versatility as an actor without becoming fully absorbed in any one role? EL: First of all, you just have to kind of take it one at a time, so that you can fully absorb in one role, so you don’t have too many voices in your head. And then once that’s finished and you kind of move on to the next one, then I think it’s easier to kind of begin to let go of that character because you know that it’s over and you’re moving onto the next one. PC: If you could have your dream role what would it be? EL: That’s a good one. I’d like to play a superhero in a movie. PC: What was it like to play the voice of Ellis in Left 4 Dead 2?

hold is the things that you start to learn about and they start to influence your decisions on who they are and why they made the decisions they made. But really at the very root of it, they’re just a person. PC: A lot of your characters are very dark and twisted, but you seem like such a light-hearted kind of person. What is it like to play such dark roles when that’s the opposite of your own personality? EL: I think that’s what makes it so fun, you know? I mean in real life, you can’t really get away with doing the evil, sinister thing. So to be able to kind of take on that persona is fun. It’s fun to explore that and I think everybody has probably got that somewhere inside of them— whether it’s buried real deep or somewhere that’s easy to access. But at the end of the day too, again it boils down to ‘Who are these people?’. They are all people, how they react to certain situations or who they are at the root of it is what, I guess, separates them from each other. PC: A lot of crime shows today such as CSI and Law & Order focus on solving one crime per episode whereas in The Killing it focuses solely on the murder of Rosie Larsen. After her murder is solved, what direction do you think the show will take? EL: That’s what interested me in The Killing. I just thought ‘What a 28 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

EL: Oh it was awesome! I had so much fun doing that. Being from Texas, I actually have some people to kind of think about when I took on that character. There were some guys that I met in my life that were similar to Ellis, so I had a ball doing that character. And voice work is so fun, because you don’t live in the body so to speak, but you have to do everything with your voice and portray a character. It was awesome. PC: What do you do when you are not acting? EL: I play golf. I run a lot. I spend time with my wife and Chance. PC: What are some of the activities that you and your wife like to do with Chance? EL: We go to the park; we do a lot of hiking. My wife takes him on long hikes, more than I do, but we go to the park and we travel. We recently went up to Whistler and did a little snowshoeing with him, which he loved. A lot of outdoor activities, if there are squirrels or possibly ducks involved, he’s pretty revved up and ready to go and do some chasing. PC: What is one thing people don’t know about you that they’d be surprised to hear? EL: I’m a neat freak. Yeah, I’m a neat freak. I’m borderline OCD. PC: Why do you think having a sense of humor is important? EL: Oh, that’s everything—if you can’t laugh, life’s no bueno. I think

“He [Chance] taught us probably the same lesson that any dog teaches an owner which is unconditional love. ” a sense of humor is everything. Life’s too short and there’s too many things to get worked up about that if you can’t laugh and smile, then it seems like a pretty miserable life. PC: How old is Chance now? EL: From what they told us, with an August birthday, he’ll be coming up on four years old. So we just go with that, even though we think he might be a little younger. PC: What are some of the lessons Chance has taught you? EL: I think he taught us probably the same lesson that any dog teaches an owner, which is unconditional love. You know, no matter what, as soon as we walk in the door he is just so happy to see us. And no matter what’s going on, he brightens our day. He’s also just a really, really mellow dog. He’s kind of a comfort dog, if you will. So whenever I kinda get stressed out or worked up, he’s just there to remind me to be mellow.

PC: Okay now, if you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be? EL: Perfect. I’m totally joking. Imperfect. PC: Are you involved with any Animal Rescues? EL: We now have started looking into them. I have a friend of mine, Emmanuelle, who does a Fluffball for the Best Friends Animal Society. We are becoming more and more involved because he’s been so great for us and we encourage so many people to rescue dogs. PC: Is there anything you would like to add? EL: I urge everyone to rescue a dog if they have the means and capability of giving them a wonderful life. I think a lot of people get pets and don’t realize how much work that they are and they leave them at home and don’t give them the proper love and attention. But if they are looking for a dog I urge them to rescue because it’s so important and there are so many dogs that need a home. n

PC: If you could describe Chance in one word, what would it be? EL: Perfect.

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BEHAVIOR/TRAINING

A Fun Valentine’s Day Trick

BRING A CARD OR PRESENT TO A LOVED ONE. BY KIM MAYES BEFORE WE GET STARTED 1st Tip: Practice Sessions Practice one step at a time and keep your practice sessions very short. I never practice longer than 3 to 5 minutes at a time. 2nd Tip: Your Reward System Find a small ‘high-value’ treat that your dog loves. Typically soft, chewy treats or small pieces of meat are ideal for training. Pieces should be made very tiny with no piece being bigger than the size of a pea. Have your treats ready to dispense when you start your practice sessions. 3rd Tip: Use A Clicker! While you can teach this trick without a clicker, I have found it to be a remarkable

tool for training and highly recommend it, as it will cut your training time down considerably. Using a clicker is relatively simple. If you’ve never tried it before, just start by clicking once. When the dog looks at you reward him with a treat. Continue to do this until ‘click’ = treat! The clicker is considered a secondary reinforcer and will help you pinpoint your timing and catch desired behaviors more effectively. Once you are comfortable with this step, start applying it to your dog whenever he performs a desired behavior. (For instance, when you cue your dog to sit, he would hear the click the moment his butt hits the floor.) The click immediately rewards the behavior, giving you the opportunity to reward steps in the right direction to a final goal and giving you the added seconds needed to dispense a treat for that behavior. Now that we’ve laid out some guidelines let’s start learning this new trick!

Step 1 (Teaching ‘TAKE IT’) Select the card or item you want your dog to deliver. For practice, use a dummy item to begin with so your present/card isn’t covered by slobber by Valentine’s Day! Playfully hand the item to your dog while giving him the verbal cue to “Take It”. Have him hold it a couple of seconds, and then trade him a treat for it. As your dog gets better, extend the time he must hold it before he gets the treat. Only treat him if you remove the item from your dog’s mouth, not if he drops it on his own.

Step 2 (TEACHING YOUR DOG TO ‘CARRY’ AN OBJECT) Now that we can “Take It”, we need to teach your dog to “Carry” the present to someone! Since you won’t be able to practice with the actual person, I teach my dogs to bring the present to a “Mark” near where the person will be. An example might be the chair they are sitting on or an ‘X’ taped on the floor, really anything to designate where to go.

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Start practicing a few steps away from the mark. Hand your dog the card/present and ask him to “Take It” Walk a few steps forward and give him the cue to “Carry” the object. Encourage your pooch to walk towards the mark. If he drops the card/present before making it to the mark, DO NOT pick it up! Encourage your dog to “Take It” again. Your dog should only be allowed to release the present at the mark. Begin increasing the distance between the dog and the mark as the carrying improves so your dog has to travel farther each time. Try to achieve a distance of across an entire room. As your dog improves further, try to lessen the amount you are walking with them and encourage them to travel ahead of you to the mark on their own.

Step 3 (TEACHING GIVE) Once your dog is traveling to the designated mark on his own, start teaching him to drop the item on cue at the site. Have the dog stand at the mark holding the card/present. Instruct him to “Give” it to you and trade the card/present for a treat. Lengthen the amount of time the dog must hold the item before you give the cue to release. Once your dog understands each part of the trick, it is important for you to increase the difficulty level by increasing distances, adding distractions and lengthening the duration of the hold to ensure your dog is confident to perform this trick on your big unveiling! With some patience, consistency and plenty of practice you and your dog are sure to make a big impression on Valentine’s Day n

Yes. It’s for the Dog. (now look who’s begging) www.abarkersdozen.com

Animal MAGNETISM

Art

Dog as 32 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

Photography By Julie Clegg

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Written By MaryAnn Aquilino | Photos By Linda Dow Hayes 36 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

n Sunday, November 25th, 2012, a skinny white French bulldog was found by employees in the bathroom of the Pittsford, NY Petco. Left in a bag, in which he vomited and went to the bathroom, he managed to get out of it. Store personnel immediately took him to an emergency veterinary hospital. Showing signs of what appeared to be severe malnutrition and neglect, he was hydrated and brought back to Petco, where employees contacted Intake Coordinator Karla Weller-Barkley of Greece Residents Assisting Stray Pets (GRASP), a local not-for-profit, pet rescue and adoption organization. Karla immediately went to Petco for the Frenchie. “[I felt] anger that someone would leave this dog in the bathroom unattended in a bag,” she says. “That person did not use the resources that were available to them as far as trying to take him to a shelter or finding a home for him.” Karla thinks caring for Pierre became too much for his owner, as bulldogs generally require more care because of skin and respiratory issues. “I just don’t think they knew what their resources were,” she says. “They were at an end and this was the only choice that they had.” That Petco location apparently doesn’t have video surveillance; also very busy due to an adoption event taking place that day, no one knows who brought the dog into the store. “There were so many people coming in and out,” Karla says. “It’s hard to

exactly put a face with the bag that came through the door.”

Pierre Before, Photo provided

He was named Pierre, and Susan Missell Zukoski, a GRASP volunteer, became his foster Mom. Sue fosters many of the tougher cases, as her medical background allows her to do procedures such as IVs and tube feedings. First thing Monday, Sue picked up Pierre and brought him to see Dr. Tim Bostley of Hilton Veterinary Hospital, Hilton, NY, where Bostely determined Pierre was dehydrated and gave Sue what she needed to do an IV at home for him. Sue also got Pierre complimentary grooming from a local salon where Pierre was cleaned up and pampered. At only a little over 18 pounds, initial impressions were that Pierre was starved, but it turns out that he has some medical issues. In addition to some malnourishment and skin irritations, Pierre has had trouble keeping food down. Local news media contacted GRASP and several stories appeared in the local news on Monday; Pierre was also featured on the GRASP Facebook page. This resulted in GRASP receiving a call the next day from Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, requesting the 6-year-old dog be transferred to the Humane Society as part of an animal cruelty investigation. Someone alleging to be Pierre’s owner saw the news and called Lollypop, presenting pictures of him as proof; the owner stated Pierre had either been stolen or escaped their www.pupculturemagazine.com | 37

Pierre Before, Photo provided

yard on Halloween. The investigation by Humane Society of Greater Rochester law enforcement officers into Pierre’s abandonment is ongoing. Abandoning a pet is a misdemeanor in New York, punishable by up to one year in jail and/or $1,000 fine. While at Lollypop’s clinic, Pierre received IVs and diagnostic tests to determine why he couldn’t keep food down. His owner also signed Pierre over to the Humane Society. After a week at Lollypop, where he was stabilized and evidence gathered for their investigation, Lollypop returned Pierre to GRASP on December 5th. GRASP is now providing the recommended medical care and handling his eventual adoption. After another 38 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

thorough exam by Dr. Bostley, Pierre went home with Missell Zukoski with a plan for his on-going veterinary treatment. “I am delighted to have Pierre back in the comfort of my home where I can provide around-the-clock monitoring and the tender loving care he so deserves,” said Sue. “GRASP’s priority is to focus on providing whatever care is necessary in order to restore Pierre to optimal health.” Pierre was about 2 ½ pounds lighter and still having trouble keeping food down. After ultrasounds, barium and chest x-rays were done, Pierre was brought to Cornell University Hospital for Animals, for more tests, including one for Myasthenia

Gravis (MG), which was borderline. MG is a neuromuscular disease and can occur as an acquired problem in older dogs. The first sign of problems may be Mega esophagus, an enlargement of the esophagus due to muscular weakness, leading to trouble swallowing. This can cause regurgitation, aspiration of food and water, and inhalation pneumonia. A recent test showed Pierre is still borderline for MG.

The next step is to stay on the current path, get Pierre as healthy as possible and find his forever home. While many people have expressed interest in adopting Pierre, his new family will need the financial wherewithal for future medical expenses and the time, willingness, and ability to stick to his feeding regime. “He makes it so easy for you; he really does; after eating he falls sleep next to you – and snores,” says Sue.n

But under Missell Zukoski ‘s diligent care, Pierre is now just over 25 pounds and gaining. Using a cat carrier standing on its end, with the door removed and lined for his comfort, Pierre is hand fed by Sue, for approximately 45 minutes, twice a day. His diet consists of dry dog food, very well-soaked and mashed, with the addition of items such as chicken, oats, and bananas. “He’s not picky” says Sue. While a water bowl can’t be left out for him in case of regurgitation, a little water or broth in with the last bit of his ‘mush’ is manageable. After hand feeding, Sue then holds Pierre upright in her arms for 20-30 minutes so he won’t regurgitate his food. “Pierre appears to have been well loved and someone spent time with him” says Sue, “as Pierre is crate and potty trained, well behaved, trustworthy and wonderful.” And while it turns out Pierre is also deaf “it doesn’t hold him back’ says Sue.

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RESCUE

BREYDEN:

THE STORY OF A BAIT DOG Written by Nicole Pajer | Photos Provided

In the horrifying world of dog fighting, dogs are helplessly sacrificed in order to train more aggressive dogs to fight. These “bait dogs” will often have their teeth filed down or are muzzled or duct taped so they are helpless against their attacker. Their purpose is merely to give the fighter dog a feeling of “winning” when it dominates the baiter. If they do make it through a round of attacks, bait dogs are simply thrown into the ring again with another fighting dog. The cycle continues until they are either killed or injured beyond usability, in which case they are assassinated by their owners.

Fortunately, Breyden made it out alive.

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“She has been very instrumental in bringing him out of his shell and enabling him to act like a dog again.”

n July of 2011, Ellen Paquin and her husband Tim received word that a baiting dog named Breyden had been taken to the MCACC Animal Care Center in Phoenix, Arizona. He was scheduled to be put down any day and was in horrible shape – weighing next to nothing, wounds and gashes over almost every inch of his body and ridden with fleas, ticks, and tapeworms. The couple, who runs Raven Pines Dog Rescue & Rehabilitation out of their Cordes Lakes, Arizona home, was heartbroken when they heard Breyden’s story.

been filed down. Someone really did a number on him.” Tim carried Breyden to his car. The dog immediately buried his face into the corner of the crate. “While watching his reaction, it was then that we noticed the depth of his injuries -- an extremely bad left shoulder wound that was still bleeding, a deep, jagged hole in the back of his head that was also still bleeding, innumerable bite wounds, scabs and scars all over him. They say you can see the soul through the eyes. His were blank, empty and cold. He was just “floating” in an existence that we could not even imagine,” explains Ellen.

“I was sent an email with Breyden’s picture, stating he was in serious danger of being put to sleep. I had the strongest feeling that this dog Breyden was then taken to his first of many Breyden Before was supposed to be at Raven Pines,” explains veterinary appointments. During the five hour visit, the vet Ellen. When the couple picked up Breyden, he was in worse took a look at Breyden’s filed down teeth and explained that condition than they could have imagined. “He was incredibly he was barely a year old. He was given an extra small dosage frightened when we found him. He defecated at the shelter of anesthesia, out of the fear that it would be too much for his when they gave him his rabies shot and he nearly inhaled the weak body to handle. Breyden’s heart rate began to drop and hamburger we gave him. He was very thin and his teeth had

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“He has shown us courage and pride, strength and comedy. We love him dearly and want only the best for him.” he was forced to endure the majority of the wound cleaning in excruciating pain. “This was the hardest I ever had to work to fight back my tears. His crying literally broke my heart. I could barely handle the pain I felt in my chest. I just prayed that was the most he would ever have to endure again in his life,” says Ellen. The couple soon learned that Breyden’s emotional scars were worse than his external wounds. He would go into a frenzy when exposed to loud noises, certain male voices, and other dogs. Tim and Ellen began slowly recreating those scenarios in small increments so Breyden would realize that nothing bad would happen when they occurred. A few weeks later, they introduced him to his mentor dog/buddy, a 13-year-old Chihuahua/Doxie mix named Duchie who was incorporated into his schedule - eating with him, being walked with him, and eventually integrating him into one of the rehab center’s packs. The couple, who focuses their rescue efforts on physically and mentally debilitated dogs, also worked to build up Breyden’s self esteem and sense of accomplishment through the use of praise. “Whenever he did anything that met his basic needs of survival or interacted with Dutchie, we flourished him with ‘Good Boys,” says Ellen. Slowly but surely, Breyden began to make progress.

Shortly after Breyden was rescued, a dog named Bella was brought in to the center and has since formed a strong bond with Breyden. “She has been very instrumental in bringing him out of his shell and enabling him to act like a dog again.” Breyden is still at the center today but has made major progress. He is still wary about being petted but he trusts Ellen and Tim and has settled into a routine. According to Ellen, he’s become very animated – often playing with the pack and greeting new arrivals. Ellen and Tim continue to work with Breyden and hope that when the time comes, someone will adopt both him and Bella together. While the rehabilitation hasn’t been easy, the couple is extremely grateful that Breyden came into their lives and is thankful that unlike many bait dogs; he was able to be given a second chance at life. “He has shown us courage and pride, strength and comedy. We love him dearly and want only the best for him. He showed us the darker side of the life of a dog. He has launched us on a path to campaign against and educate people on dog fighting and to show people that these dogs are not all killers once abused in this manner. He will always be in our hearts and an inspiration,” says Ellen. n

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FourL M

The Key to a Successful Relationship is Your Dog Written by Gabriella Martinez | Photos Provided

ogs are our best friends, but can they also be our matchmakers? For some couples the answer is a resounding yes. Often we hear of people who broke up because a pet was in the picture: the boyfriend who was allergic, the girlfriend who thought she came in second to the dog, the new spouse who just wouldn’t accept a dog living in ‘their’ house. But there are many others who credit their dogs for bringing them together. We’ve all know people who say they ‘don’t like dogs’ or who just aren’t ‘dog people,’ however it’s how someone treats a dog and are open to loving an animal in this type of situation that really matters. “Seeing how someone embraces you and your animal is going to say a lot about if they are going to be a good fit for you,” says Dr. Vondie Lozano, MFT, Ph.D., a relationship expert based in California. Humans meeting each other generally discount their instincts, and rely on their head or heart, which doesn’t always work out for the best. And while many people may use their dogs as ‘magnets’ to attract the opposite sex, they still may not be compatible as a couple. Dr. Vondie suggests people who are 44 | PUPCULTURE OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

looking to find love focus on finding other people who share their values first. “I suggest they identify and hang out in places where their ‘people’ are, people who share their values. And I always include the dog park at the top of the list of places to look. Because if your dog is a big part of your life, that says a lot about you and your values. And if you find someone you’re interested in at the dog park, you already have many important pieces of a good relationship already in place.” There are even a couple of online dating sites for pet owners, making it easier to meet people who already love pets. Date My Pet (whose tagline is Date Me. Date My Pet) and Must Love Pets, a service for “singles looking for a partner who understands your pet is your baby” are exclusively for pet lovers and get you past that first, all important, hurdle of finding another person who shares your values. If sharing similar values and observing the way a potential spouse treats your dog is the key to the beginnings of a successful relationship, it’s no wonder why these dog-loving couples we spoke to believe their dog played a big part in

them finding lasting love. Sonia and Hernan Charry When Sonia Charry met Nala, her boxer/lab mix, at just 10 weeks old, she and her husband Hernan had already been dating for about two years. “When I first met her, I mean all puppies are cute, but when I met her, I fell for her instantly,” Sonia recalled. So when she brought her home a few weeks later, her husband (who was her boyfriend at the time) wasn’t sure what to think. “He thought I was crazy for taking a dog on a whim and so I took her over to his house and within 10 minutes he looked at her and he looked at me and said ‘okay, that’s your dog, she is meant for you.’” She always knew that she couldn’t seriously date a guy that didn’t like dogs and both of them happened to have always had a love of dogs, but according to Sonia seeing her then boyfriend with Nala was an entirely different scenario. “It was complete picture of him as dog lover. I would get calls and text messages at work from him saying ‘guess what Nala just did’ or ‘Nala just played with a dog for the first time’ it was things like that where I saw he really did love

Dave, Angel and Fionn

Sonia, Hernan and Nala

dogs,” Sonia said.

Angel and Dave Fitzpatrick

Around this time, Sonia and her now husband were getting more serious and it was Nala who helped to really solidify the ideas of what their future could be because they were practicing with her. “Sharing responsibility for another living creature made us become partners in a different way,” Sonia said. “Once we had Nala, we came home and it was really a family, there was someone to greet us.”

Angel and Dave are truly a fairy tale of the digital age. When Angel put up an online dating profile with the title “Must love animals, Must not love kids” Dave answered. “I was 35 at the time and at that point in my life I knew that I did not want kids ,” Angel explained. “You either want kids or you don’t and it’s not something you can really compromise on and then I also had my dogs, I had Zeus and Portia.”

Throughout this time, without them even realizing it, Nala was slowly going from Sonia’s dog, to their dog. “It was kind of a process that we didn’t realize was happening until it was done,” Sonia said.

According to Angel, both Portia and Zeus had been with her through everything, so she knew that anyone she became serious with would have to love them as much as she did. So when the website matched them, both Dave and Angel were surprised to find out they were both from different countries; Angel was in Texas and Dave was in Ireland. “I didn’t know that it matched people outside of the US and Dave didn’t know that it matched people outside of Ireland,” Angel said. After about six weeks of correspondence, either

Now Sonia and Hernan are happily married with Nala continuing to teach them lessons along the way. Nala was even the inspiration to the business they both own called Paw Posse, an online store and resource geared towards large dogs and their owners.

by telephone or email, Dave travelled to Texas for St. Patrick’s Day to meet Angel and her furry family members. “That was the gauge for me. If my cats didn’t like him, if my dogs didn’t like the guy, I knew it wasn’t gonna work out,” she explained. “Of course, it helped that Dave brought toys over for them.” It was watching her dogs and cats bond with Dave and his interaction with them that helped Angel to realize Dave was the right guy for her. Both Dave and Angel give credit to their dogs for aiding in the development of their relationship and giving them a solid foundation. “They just helped us bond and they helped our relationship develop,” Dave said. When they first started dating, they did everything with the dogs, so spending time with them became a core part of their connection. According to Angel, having her seven animals (five cats and two dogs) in the beginning and then bringing Dave in completed their family. Now, Angel and Dave live on several acres in Texas with their ten dogs and several fosters. Dave has now become an animal trainer and owns his own training business, Celtic Canine. Together they work tirelessly towards the rescue and rehabilitation of dogs, which also helps continue to keep the lines of communication open between them. “Working with rescues has helped develop our own relationship further by learning how to communicate better,” Dave explained. “We’re both fully committed to animal rescue. We are equally passionate about it, and we just absolutely love our dogs,” Angel said. “He is passionate about the same things that I’m passionate about and that main passion is animals.” n

www.pupculturemagazine.com | 45

make your own

Sup p s lie

Ribbon, Stickers, etc. (To decorate the matte) Scissors Double-Sided Tape Fine Tip Sharpies or Pens Picture Frame w/Matte Scrapbooking paper or White Cardstock Foam Paint Brush Washable Non-Toxic Paint Paper Plate

FRAMED PAW PRINT KEEPSAKE Written By Gabriella Martinez | Photography By Michelle Macirella

Your Dog

1. Gather all your supplies. 2. Pour the paint onto a paper plate. 3. Using the foam paint brush, paint the pad of your dog’s paw. Note: To prevent a huge mess, lay down a towel or rag and keep a bowl of soapy water near you so that you can wash your dog’s paw off right after.

5. While you are waiting for your paw print to dry, gather your decorations for your matte and decorate to your liking. Note: To decorate our matte, we used ribbon and some fun dog-themed scrapbooking stickers.

4. Place your scrapbooking paper on the floor and press your dog’s painted pad firmly on the paper. Pull up and set aside to dry. Note: Try to pull your dog’s paw straight up off the paper to get the best paw print image, if you slightly tilt their paw to one side or the other, it could smudge the image.

6. Once you are done decorating your matte, center your paw print image behind it and tape it to the matte. Take your sharpie and write your dog’s name below the paw print and any other inscriptions you might want. 7. Place your finished matte in the frame and hang on your wall for both you and your guests to enjoy.

46 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

Happy Endings A Destination Pets Helping People Protecting Animals

NEW YEAR, NEW INSPIRATION! Written by Laura Kinsey

elcome to 2013! This year more than ever, I’m excited for, well, everything, and am keen to hit the ground running! Ideas for a happy, healthy lifestyle that include the dog abound online; in fact the Internet is chock-full of interesting, informational, and inspirational goodness. See below for a quick look at some of our favorite (online) things, and get the 411 on some pet-centric events we’re looking forward to attending in the coming months.

Excited to READ! A new e-book from Open Air Publishing: “Positively Dog Training: The Better Path to a Well-Behaved Pup”. Made exclusively for the iPad and iPhone, this book uses clicker training to help readers train their dogs quickly and humanely. It features 38 HD video tutorials with Denise Herman - expert dog trainer and founder of New York-based Empire of the Dog and dozens of step-by-step instructions for canine skills and tricks, potty training, noise control, nutrition, and exercise. I’ve already started reading through this well-designed book, and it’s amazingly helpful. Whether you have a brand new puppy or (like me) a middle-aged rescue dog with his quirks, you will want to download this ASAP. Available at openairpub.com starting at $4.99. (And click around in our archives to read more about Denise Herman in our Aug/Sept 2012 issue!)

Excited to GET INSPIRED! Oh, Pinterest. You time-sink, you. Love it or hate it, falling down the Pinterest rabbit hole can be strangely rewarding. No

48 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

matter your interest, you can find someone as obsessed or more, making it totally possible to learn something you didn’t know about your favorite subject. Some of our favorite pet-centric pinners: • Tiffani Upchurch’s Animals pinboard has a nicely curated selection of puppy photos, (with the occasional horse or teacup piglet photo thrown in). • The Puppy Chow pinboard from Jennifer of Loft 132 has a great round up of dog treat ideas, plus sources for cute accessories for your pup to eat and drink out of. • Cool animal illustrations, among other things, on Jessica Meeks Artsy pinboard. • Illustrator Eleanor Grosch’s Uarts pinboard has tons of cool animal imagery, (much of it her own fantastic work) typography, and packaging design inspiration. • Every pinboard from If It Barks. In all, a super comprehensive look at doggy décor, fashion, food, and general canine cuteness. Have you seen the website Attack of the Cute? Run by either two people or two kittens, depending on what you choose to believe on their About page, this well-designed site features images posted by the site’s owners along with submissions from readers. Kitties in shopping carts, dogs wearing goggles, bunnies snuggling: yes, yes, and yes. The photography tends to be great, too. Finally! Boo, the world’s cutest dog, is Instagramming! This

makes us super happy. Follow along @buddyboowaggytails. Head over to Barkzilla.net from time to time to see what’s happening with Samantha and Paddington, the most adorable Morkie. This savvy NYC duo taste tests and product tests every cool new thing that comes out, making this a great source to consult with before laying out your own cash for something new.

Excited to: SHOP! Shopping online for your pet has gone haute, with pet e-commerce taking a cue from sites like BirchBox and One Kings Lane to offer a well-curated selection of items you’d actually want at gently discounted prices. Here are a few of our favorites: •

Inubar.com – Design for pets! Great site offering well designed pet products from artisan suppliers. An email with a list of the week’s best picks arrives straight to your inbox.

•

BarkBox.com – If the thought of a box of dog goodies showing up on your door step once a month makes you happy, then sign up! Monthly memberships start around $17.

•

Did you know Posh Puppy Boutique, one of the biggest and best pet e-tailers out there, recently opened a brick and mortar store in Rocklin, CA? Owner Jennifer Kirk and her staff are familiar with just about every pet product under the sun, and their favorites are now sold under one roof. How great is that?

Devotees of The Salty Paw, located in the South Street Seaport area of Manhattan, were crushed to learn the extent to which the store was damaged during Hurricane Sandy. With water to the ceiling and the entire stock of merchandise ruined, the shop has set up as a temporary pop-up at a nearby veterinary office. However, things are looking up – the owners have begun construction on a new space around the corner from the original location and will be back up and running soon! That’s excellent news for the neighborhood locals who rely on The Salty Paw for their stellar grooming and doggie day care

services, not to mention their great selection of merchandise! To follow along with their story and to check out their recovery efforts, please visit thesaltypaw.com and luckyant.com.

Excited to ATTEND/ WATCH Feb. 2: Animal Planet’s Ninth Annual Puppy Bowl! This year’s cheerleaders? Hedgehogs. Yup. Set your DVR now. Feb. 9: The NYC Doggies and Tiaras Pageant to benefit Inky Blue Sea Animal Rescue will be held in New York City on Saturday, February 9, 2013 at The New Yorker Hotel. Attendees are welcome to bring leashed dogs. The pageant will feature designs by Roberto Negrin, and celebrity guests as judges. Proceeds from the independently produced pageant will benefit Inky Blue Sea Animal Rescue. Purchase tickets at Eventbrite, starting at $30. Feb. 20-22: Global Pet Expo. If you own a pet shop or e-commerce site, this is the place to find pet products from companies all over the world. Held annually in Orlando, this event is open to the trade only. More info at globalpetexpo.org. Dec. 13: Dog’s Night Out. Well this one already happened, but we hear it was amazing! Organizer Irene Liu successfully brought together several vendors who are all graduates of FIT’s Pet Products Design & Marketing Certificate program for a trunk and fashion show at the swank D Pet Hotel in Chelsea.n

Laura Kinsey is the owner of Sam & Tasha, a small line of dog dresses, coats and accessories sold nationwide. Obsessed with design in all it’s forms since receiving a Christmas present of furniture templates and tracing paper as a kid, she worked for ten years as an interior designer before studying Textile Development at The Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. This led to a pet fashion design class, and the rest is history. She launched the company’s first product line in 2010 and stays connected to the industry attending trade shows and trunk shows all over the country. Laura lives in Brooklyn, New York with her 10 lb. Maltese rescue dog and occasional muse, Hugo.

www.pupculturemagazine.com | 49

Written by Elaine Webster

hase is a beautiful white Husky mix with tan patches near his ears and a sweet, stoic disposition. His fur is sheep thickness and silky to the touch. As a puppy, it was his mission to chew window ledges, table and chair legs. Soon his house was covered in aluminum foil in an attempt to keep him from chewing. When Chase was two years old, his family adopted Carley, a black lab puppy full of energy and mischief. Carley’s mission was to dig massive holes in the backyard until all you could see was her wiggly rear-end and tail sticking out of them. It became my mission to pull Carley out of the holes and then stuff logs from the wood pile into them. Another favorite past time for both dogs was sitting in their family room on the top back of the sofa. From this vantage point, they could guard the house by barking at every dog going by in the neighborhood. I would sit across from them and giggle at the sight of these two very large dogs doing their balancing act on the sofa. For over six years, I cared for them whenever their family was away and developed a strong bond. Little did I know, things would change drastically. One day the family told me they were moving across the country to Las Vegas for a new job. I was heartbroken at the thought of never seeing Chase and Carley again. However, I didn’t need to worry because eventually the family decided to flew me out to stay with the dogs while they went on vacation. I was thrilled, but a year had gone by and I wondered if the dogs would still remember me. I got my answer as soon as I arrived when they couldn’t stop jumping with excitement and covering me with kisses. Crushed-stone ground cover replaced the grassy back yard they used to have along with palm trees and a pool. However, Chase still opted for the one small, grass-filled area to do his business. The dogs were doing well in their new arid environment and enjoyed lounging on the warm patio. They didn’t swim, but Carley loved to wade on the top two steps in

50 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

the pool. On her way to explore the backyard, she would often take a shortcut through the pool. Sometimes she would be so excited and in a rush to get there, she would stop for a brief moment to poop onto the submerged steps. Carley also loved to munch on the rosemary bushes located all around the patio. She would straddle the bushes with her little bent tail wagging while she snacked. There were other dogs in the area who kept Chase and Carley busy. A nearby neighbor’s dog provided lots of opportunity for them to guard the property as they had done in their old house. A tall cement wall surrounded the backyard and they stationed themselves at its base. Oreo, the Sheltie next door, would bark from her side of the wall causing Chase and Carley to return the barking in duet fashion. This would go on for most of the day. Occasionally, Oreo would really cause a commotion when she would manage to jump up on top of the wall pacing back and forth looking down and taunting the dogs below her. One of these times Oreo lost her balance and fell into their back yard. It became a circus of three dogs barking, running around sniffing each other and confused as to what happened. Oreo cut her foot on a tree branch in the fall which didn’t help with the situation. But her family was quickly called over and she returned home safely. After she left, Chase and Carley went back to their guard position with a satisfied look on their faces of a job well done. When they were off duty from guarding the wall they would happily play, nap and cuddle with me. This life was quite different from the old days of digging holes or chewing wood, but I knew my dear dogs were doing fine in their new home, and I was happy I could still have adventures with them. n Elaine Webster is the author of three books: Seeking Balance, Grandma’s in the Basement and Dawn Dancing and is currently working on her next book. Besides an author, Elaine has also been a pre-school teacher and artist. One of her biggest passions, however, is animals, and she is the owner of Elaine’s Pet Sitting: The Furry Godmother for Your Pets in Rochester, NY. Elaine has been a pet sitter for 20 years and loves getting to know and taking care of so many different dogs and cats.

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MaryAnn Aquilino is a certified groomer and trainer in the Rochester, NY area.

Question: always . She has le a m ll a young sm ick of en on a k male and tt e f o g r e s a ld h o ull e e gs: a larg before I p recently h o r t d a u e b o e , n p tw o u e p I hav utes on ere her d 15+ min as if he w li o im s h a d e e n n o clea He has g her ears. in g in k c li ber normal? onica We r is e V th s I . him off r, NY Rocheste ure,

Cult Dear Pup

This isn’t considered abnormal behavior and can be common in households with two or more playful dogs. Why they do it can varies dog to dog and from one time to the next. It can be done as a grooming action, especially if the ‘lickee’s’ ears aren’t cleaned regularly. It can also be a sign of the ‘licker’ showing submissive behavior. Licking is also used as communication. When dogs lick each other quickly and briefly it’s a sign of friendliness; slower and longer, and affection and social bonding are being shown. And sometimes they just like the taste of what they’re licking! There are some risks associated with one dog constantly licking another dogs’ ear. The dog on the receiving end of the licks could end up with an otitis externa, an external ear infection, because their ear is continually moist; yeast and bacteria can flourish in a moist environment, and constant licking with provide that moist environment. If the dog being licked has an ear infection that’s being treated with medication, the ‘licker’ could get an upset stomach from ingesting the medication being used. A dog that frequently engages in this behavior could also have a compulsive disorder, as anything done regularly can become a habit, which can then become compulsive, and this may require veterinary or behaviorist intervention. After getting both dogs checked to ensure neither has an ear infection, there are a few things you can do to prevent and stop this behavior. A simple fix is putting an Elizabethan cone on the dog doing the licking; this will prevent them from being able to reach the other dog easily. Most dogs hate those collars, and they’ll still try to reach their goal, but they may help for times you can’t be there. When you’re there, if you can catch the ‘licker’ getting ready to start, or in the middle of his routine, try to distract and then redirect them with a yummy, long-lasting chew toy. A short, sharp ‘Ah Ah’ will generally get their attention so you can redirect them; but be aware that if they’ve been going at it for a bit, you may need to actually lightly touch your dog to get their attention. Once they’re actively engaged in a behavior, dogs tend to ‘lose their hearing’, and a light touch is usually all that’s needed to get their attention. Best of luck!

Have a question for our panel of experts? Email info@pupculturemagazine.com for a chance to get some expert advice in our next issue!

52 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

MaryAnn Aquilino

Happy Tails Pet Grooming, LLC.

MaryAnn Aquilino Certified Professional Groomer 3180 Latta Road (Located in Ricciâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant Plaza) Rochester, NY 14612

585.865.3248

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H4Legs: H-Leggings Written by Gabriella Martinez | Photo by Luminaria Photography The cone of shame ... just the utterance of the phrase makes both dogs and owners uncomfortable. Unfortunately, because I have a dog who is allergic to pretty much everything, I am all too familiar with it. Last year, my poor Labrador Retriever, Andrea, was in a cone for six weeks because she got an infection from licking her legs and feet constantly; we couldn’t get her to stop! At that time I wished for something better than the dreaded cone of shame, not only to make sure Andrea was more comfortable, but for the sake of my house. She is not the most graceful of dogs and with a cone on she leaves a path of destruction everywhere she goes. This is why when H4LegsTM contacted me about doing a product review for their product, H-Leggings, I was more than willing to test them out. H-Leggings is a great alternative to the cone if your dog, like mine, has an issue with his/her forelegs. They are a pair of interconnected breathable, reusable and flexible leggings your dog can wear over a veterinary approved wound dressing, cast, hotspot or irritation of the forelegs. The material used is lightweight and breathable and Andrea has no issue moving around in them. She actually didn’t seem to notice them at all once they were on. They also did a great job keeping her from licking her legs. In addition, not only did they prevent her from licking her legs, but they also helped to keep any allergens and debris from getting in contact with her skin/fur. And since the fabric is breathable, there were no problems with her wounds healing. The only issue I had was after a few days of Andrea wearing the H-leggings, just like a worn-in T-shirt, the fabric started to stretch and loosen. She actually started to step on and out of them—eventually taking them off when we weren’t home. Once this happened, I just put it in the washer and dryer, and it returned back to its original state. The backstrap didn’t retract all the way, but it was tight enough to stay on Andrea again. Another solution to this issue would be to purchase two and after your pup wears it for a day just throw one in the wash and put the other one on. Did I mention it washed beautifully? When I took it out of the dryer it looked like it just came out of the package. Overall, I would say the product is a great choice for dog owners if your dog has issues with their forelegs causing them to need the dreaded cone of shame. Your dog will be comfortable while they heal and items in your house will be safe from becoming cone of shame casualties.

54 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

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MAGAZINE

OPT TO ADOPT

PINUPS FOR PITBULLS

RESTORING HONOR TO A MISUNDERSTOOD BREED

SHEDDING LIGHT ON

BLACK DOG SYNDROME

10 REASONS WHY SHELTER DOGS ROCK! DELICIOUS APPLE PIE RECIPE

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FOR THE LOVE OF DOGS & BUBBLE GUM

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5 WAYS

Your Dog Can Help You Find Love Written By Dr. Vondie Lozano, MFT, Ph.D.

#1 Your Dog Gets You Out the Door If you want to find love, the first thing you have to do is get yourself up and out of the house. And your dog is the perfect reason to get yourself out the door. Whether it’s a walk around the block, a trip to the park or a hike in the mountains, your dog gets you out in the world. And once you’re out there, you’re much more likely to meet someone new.

#2 Your Dog is a Great Conversation Starter It’s much easier to strike up a conversation with someone new if you have something to talk about. And your dog provides the perfect opening. People can ask what kind of dog you have. They can tell you how beautiful your dog is. They can ask if it’s okay to pet him. Your dog gives people an easy way to approach you. Then you can decide if you want to get to know them better.

#3 Your Dog Can Help You Find Other Dog-People In a good relationship, people enjoy doing things together and share important values. The dog park is a great place to meet someone who enjoys spending time with their dog and makes them a priority in their life. You might also discover other things in common, like a love of the outdoors. And you may

58 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY

even share deeper values. Most of all, you’ll know your dogs play an important role in both your lives.

#4 Your Dog Can Help You Spot Red Flags You don’t have to fall in love with another dog-person. But you do need someone who respects how much you love your dog. As you’re getting to know someone new, pay attention. Do they understand how important your dog is to you? Do they treat your dog with kindness? Some people may be unfamiliar with dogs, but they can still come to love your dog almost as much as you do. Others won’t respect how much you love your dog and they won’t ever love your dog. Those are big red flags that tell you a lot about the other person and if they are a good fit for you.

#5 Your Dog Helps You Have a Life Dogs and people are social animals. You and your dog are a family, a pack. The relationship you share with your dog can provide you a sense of belonging and purpose. Your dog can help you have a life, even if you’re single. And that makes you very attractive to someone new. And when you do meet someone who is right for you (and your dog), you can invite them to share your life. n Dr. Vondie is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, former Psychology Professor, Speaker and Author. She helps singles find love through her counseling, seminars and weekly blog. She lives in the Los Angeles area with her husband and their dog, Mia. She is working on her first book for singles. Get Dr. Vondie’s *Free* Ebook, Date, Don’t Mate at DrVondie.com.

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PAISLEY

Sweet 10-month-old puppy seeking a new love connection. At my other house I spent most of my time outside, so I can be a little shy when it comes to meeting new people and places, but I’m eager to learn and work on my social skills. If you think you have room in your home and your heart for me, I promise to give you lots of love.

Cute, young girl looking for someone to love. I’ve been spending time at a couple shelters waiting for my match, but haven’t found the right one yet. I’m very sweet and just want to find a good home. I may be a little lacking in the manners department, but it’s nothing a few training classes couldn’t fix. Think you’re the one for me? Give me a call.

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REGIS

WHISTLER

Handsome older gent seeks a loving home. I’m very friendly, loving and would make a great addition to any family. Remember age is just a number and I still have plenty of love to give. Make me part of your family and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Handsome, outgoing young man seeks a new soul mate. Somehow I lost my way from my old home, so I’m looking for a new person or family that wants to be loved by me. I’ll admit I’m a bit of a flirt; I love to give kisses! I usually like to meet my canine playmates first, so if you have other dogs just let me say hi and I know I can win them over.

60 | PUPCULTURE JANUARY/FEBRUARY