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Editorial
Issue 1: Volume 5 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
pring time is finally upon on! Time to get out and enjoy some fresh air with our four-legged ones. For many, this time of year means weekend landscape projects. While some dogs will merely admire your work, others may lend a helping paw and turn your hard work into a pile of dirt. For helpful tips on how to curb your dog’s digging, turn to page 16.
Our adoptable cover dog Hamill comes to us from Guardian Pit Bull Rescue. As a new rescue resource, they are truly dedicated to advocating for this great breed and have developed an ambassador training program to promote responsible pit bull ownership in our community. To read about Hamill and other dogs available through this organization, flip to page 20.
We have come to acknowledge our pets as members of our family. When we lose them, it can be just as difficult as the loss of a human. Laura Springer with Fond Memories Pet Cemetery offers some suggestions on how to cope with such a loss and how to honor and remember our pets with dignity.
Be sure to check out the calendar for fun petrelated events. And for more up-to-date information, become a fan on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
S
Happy Spring!
Jennifer Kitchens
On the Cover
Hamill, photographed by Ashlee Newman Photography. URBAN PAWS MAGAZINE P.O. Box 1556 Spring, Texas 77383 www.UrbanPawsMagazine.com Design and layout by: ZOECO CREATIVE © Copyright 2011. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Urban Paws magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, feature and idea submissions, or photographs, and such material will not be returned. Urban Paws magazine assumes no liability for the contents herein and has the right to refuse advertising for any reason. Urban Paws magazine does not endorse any specific product or service contained herein; we do encourage you to support our advertisers whenever possible.
Please tell our advertisers you hear about them in Urban Paws!
Calendar March 2011 Events MARCH 5 Harness up your faithful Dachshund for the first annual Wild West Wienerfest. Enjoy wiener races, vendor booths, concessions and entertainment. Event proceeds benefit Dachshund Rescue of Houston. For more information, visit www.dachshundrescueofhouston.org. MARCH 5 Fetch your sneakers and your furry friend for the 2011 Houston SPCA Mutt Strut and Runway Race. Win great prizes by raising $25 or more in pledges to help give Houston’s homeless, abused and neglected animals a second chance at life. For more information, visit www.hspca.org. MARCH 5-6 SpringFest Wine and Art Festival in Old Town Spring. Several rescue organizations and their adoptable dogs will be on hand at this free event. 10:00 am - 6:00 pm on Saturday and 10:00 am - 5:00 pm on Sunday. For wine tasting tickets and information, visit www.oldtownspringtx.com. MARCH 12 Discount vaccination clinic at Four Seasons Veterinary Hospital from noon - 4:00 pm. For more information, visit www.fourseasonsvet.com. MARCH 13 The Houston Rockets have selected SNAP as one of the beneficiaries of their annual Tux & Tennies Charity Gala. The gala takes place on March 13, 2010 at the Toyota Center. Doors
For a full listing of events, visit: www.urbanpawsmagazine.com/events
open at 6:30 p.m. Dinner, the program and a live auction take place from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. Attire is black tie/cocktail and tennis shoes. MARCH 24 Dock Jumping classes at Rummy’s Beach Club. 6:00 - 7:30 pm. To register, visit www.rummysbeachclub.com. MARCH 26 Bark Busters Group Training Sessions begin at 6:30 - 7:30 pm at Prestonwood Kennels. For more information, call 281.890.9090. MARCH 27 The Houston Humane Society hosts Pooches of the Caribbean, the 30th Annual Fun Run and Walk at Sam Houston Park. One mile competitive run or one mile non-competitive jog/walk begins at 10:00 am. Registration is $25 and includes a limited edition shirt, doggy bandana, race bibs and a goody bag. For more information, visit www.houstonhumane.org. MARCH 26-27 Two days of fun kicks off on Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. with the HEB Plus! Pet and Owner Fun Run followed by the national Dock Diving competition presented by Meadowlake Pet Resort. Other demonstrations include: Flyball, Agility, Hunting Poodles, Obedience, and Grooming. Vendors are also on hand selling pet novelty items, giveaways and discounts. For more information, visit www.cityofpearland.com.
Follow us on FACEBOOK & TWITTER for the most up-to-date information, news and events!
6 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Paw Press News & Happenings in the Houston Area HOUSTON AREA PET WASTE REMOVAL COMPANY HAS A NEW NAME The pet waste removal company formerly known as Call to Doody will now be known as All About Doody. With more trucks, more employees and expanded service routes, All About Doody will continue with their number one priority - keeping yards doody-free. New pet waste products for both residential and commercial clients have also been added to the company’s growing list of products offered. If you are considering a pet waste removal company, ask about their new client special. Rates and specials are available online at www.calltodoody.com. PET FRIENDLY HOTEL TO OPEN IN MEMORIAL CITY Opening in March 30, 2011, The Westin Houston Memorial City promises to be Houston’s newest upscale area destination hotel for local professionals, civic and charitable events as well as business and leisure travelers. Located in the heart of the bustling Memorial City District with close proximity to the Energy Corridor, Westchase District and Citycentre, and conveniently connected to Memorial City Memorial Hermann Medical
Pets Enjoying Westin’s Heavenly Dog Beds
Center and Memorial City Mall via skybridge, the new Westin Houston Memorial City will offer guests a refuge from the challenges of the day and an oasis away from home. Visitors with pets can take advantage of the hotel’s pet friendly amenities such as the Westin’s Heavenly dog beds, leashes and collars. HDPA SEEKS PARTNERSHIP WITH LOCAL DEVELOPERS FOR A NORTHWEST AREA DOG PARK The Houston Dog Park Association is looking to bring a dog park to Northwest Houston through partnerships with greenspace developers Greens Bayou Corridor Coalition and Cypress Creek Greenway Project. A possible location is a 40 acre park development plot at the Northeast corner of Beltway 8 and 249, slated for 2011. Proponents of the Northwest dog park can join the initiative by attending the next Northwest Area Dog Park Committee meeting or a GBCC or CCGP meeting. For more information on how to support the development of a dog park at this location, visit www.houstondogpark.org. PAW IT FORWARD TRAINING ANNOUNCES NEW PAW PARTNERS PROGRAM Pet lovers will soon be able to join the Paw Partners program sponsored by Paw it Forward Training. Annual subscribers will receive exclusive invitations to fundraising socials benefitting rescue organizations, discounts and other goodies sponsored by Houston area businesses. Subscribers will also receive a Paw Partners membership card and a tag for your their pet. For more information, visit www.pawitforwardtraining.com. Urban Paws Magazine 7
Ask Genevieve... monthly memoirs of a furry genius Dear Genevieve, My humans are always talking about something they call the "stock market." They seem to be happy when something is up and mad when it's down. Can you explain it all to me? Love, your fan, Sadie Dear Sadie, I have the same problem with Denny. He thinks he can play at the stock market instead of getting a real job. Obviously something has gone wrong with his plan because he's still working for me and I pay him minimum wage. I don't offer benefits, either, other than the honor of having me be his boss. The stock market is just a big roulette wheel in New York City, and you can bet on it without leaving home. But instead of putting your money on a number, you put it on companies with names like Enron, Chrysler, and Bank of America. People who lose a lot of money at roulette are called "sick gamblers." People who lose a lot of money in the stock market are called "investors."
People should take a lesson from us dogs. Bury your money in the backyard. Years from now you can dig it up and it will still be there. Kibbles and Kisses, Genevieve
Genevieve’s Joke of the Month A guy walks into a bar and orders a drink. He looks into the back room and sees four men and a dog sitting around a poker table. He says to the bartender, "Why do they let the dog sit at the table like that?" The bartender looks at him like he's dumb and says, "Because the dog is playing poker with them." The guys, astonished, says, "C'mon, no dog can be that smart." The bartender says, "He's not smart at all. He wags his tail every time he gets a good hand." I love that joke because it makes fun of humans who think we're not as smart as they are. Actually, people who read my books often get the impression that I think humans are dumb. I don't think that at all. I rate human intelligence somewhere above turtles' and a bit below gophers'.
12www.urbanpawsmagazine.com 8 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Email your questions to Genevieve at: eiffelpress@verizon.net.
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Healthy Tails By Dr. Laurie Noaker, Veterinary Emergency Referral Group, Inc.
Coping With the Loss of a Pet
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truggling to survive the rest of our lives without our pets is often a topic we do
not consider when we are searching for that
ideal pet. As pet owners, we spend a consider-
that knows no end to true joy. It is a soul that tried to show us how to do that, to “be” more like them.
able amount of time consulting books, friends,
Animals live in the moment, loving every minute
that fit our lifestyle. Cat or dog? Do they shed?
selves about yesterday’s mistakes and they don’t
vets and the internet looking for special qualities Are they athletes or just couch potatoes? No
one seems to think about how their death will affect us later in life, or if even the type of pet
makes a difference. As an emergency vet, I sur-
mise that it does matter and it ought to be considered.
As people make the agonizing decision to euth-
of it. They don’t waste their time blaming themfret about tomorrows challenges. They have something to teach us and they model those lessons for us every day. When the silence of night
creeps up on us and there are no food bowls rattling around, no scratching in the litter box, no
jingling collars and clicking toenails that is when the second wave of grief hits. They are gone.
anize their pet, they have one objective in com-
The sadness and overwhelming grief can be too
lives, they do not want their pet to suffer. For
There is no time limit on grief and don’t let any-
mon, regardless of how the pet fits into their some, as soon as the pet passes away, the first
wave of loss is immediate. As an owner myself, I know that it is the loss of pure and unconditional love. A pet will greet you at the end of a
bad day, soothe your troubled mind, sit beside you in your hour of sorrow, play with you in
your days of glee, rise with you in the dawn to help tend your sick children, beg for food, jump on your guests, leave hair on the sofa, lick your
tears, nudge your face, sit beside you while you ignore them, engrossed in TV or the internet.
They are always there, whether silent or noisy.
And when they are gone, you feel that loss like the loss of a spouse or a child. It is your loss of pure unconditional love and the loss of a soul 10 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
much to handle. It’s okay. We’ve all been there.
one tell you that there is. Find friends who have lost their soul mate pets, they’ll understand.
There are pet loss grief support groups that can help. If you can’t find one, start one. The American Veterinary Medical Association has several hotline phone numbers available. Finally,
there are therapists that can help. A therapist
friend of mine once told me that grief over a pet often gives us permission to grieve over other things in our lives. In this way, pets have given us yet another final gift, the gateway to the gift of
grief. Grieving is necessary to healthy living and your pet only wants and has always wanted what is best for you.
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Forever My Best Friend Remembering Those We Have Loved and Lost with Compassion By Laura Springer, Fond Memories Pet Cemetery & Crematorium
D
o you remember the day you
will come and you will be faced with having to
you pick them or did they pick
we hope to help guide you through this difficult
brought your pet home? Did
you? At Fond Memories Pet
Cemetery & Crematorium, we know it was a day filled with excitement, joy and anticipation of
make decisions for their final care. In this article time, so that you can feel comfortable with the decisions that you will make.
Fortunately, you now have choices and you
finding just the right pet for you and your fami-
donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to leave it up to your veterinarian to
older pet, they immediately stole your heart!
have the right to choose who will handle the
ly. Whether you decided on a young pet or an
You bring them home, having made all the
preparations for your new addition, with expectations for a long, healthy, wonderful life together.
Sometimes the unexpected happens and the
last thing you are thinking about is what to do if your pet suddenly becomes ill, or tragedy strikes and your pet passes away. Maybe you have had
make decisions when your pet passes away. You
arrangements. By planning ahead and knowing
your options, you can make this difficult and
heart-breaking experience a little less overwhelming. There are pet cemeteries and crematories available to assist you with making arrangements.
Pet cemeteries can provide a private cemetery
your pet for a long time and they are growing
burial for your pet, much like a burial for people.
you. How will you handle that? What should you
ument, then decide if you want a viewing and a
old. At some point they will no longer be with
do? How will you cope? These are things no one wants to think about but never the less, the time
You can choose the burial site, casket and mongrave-side service. Make sure the cemetery you choose is a dedicated pet cemetery and it is
recorded this way at the county courthouse. If at
all possible, visit the cemetery and meet the staff who will be helping you and taking care of
your pet. This way you
can make all of your plans and decide when, where and how your
petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s funeral will be handled. 14 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Gone but not forgotten, although we are apart. Your spirit lives within me, forever in my heart. There is also the option of cremation. There
are a couple of choices for cremation and you
should research the options for each one to
regular business hours, just to remember and reflect on the life of their faithful friend.
Sometimes, even after you have made advance
determine what is best for you and your beloved
plans, and possibly struggled with the decision
returned, which is an individual cremation that
you feel that you can’t cope. There are people
pet. You can choose cremation with ashes
will assure that you receive only your pet’s ashes.
For an extra fee, most crematories offer a cre-
mation service at which you can actually be
present for the cremation. The specific details of the services offered vary and is something you
need to ask about. Don’t be afraid to call and ask
questions about their procedures, how long they have been in business, who takes care of the cremations, how long it will take to get your pet’s
ashes back and what type of urn they will be
returned to you in. This information, along with the conversation itself, can help you make the right decision for your pet’s final care.
The other option you have with cremation is
to request cremation with ashes not returned. This is a group cremation where several pets are
of euthanasia, the grief is just so overwhelming and organizations out there to help. Don’t think
you are the only one who is or who has strug-
gled with grief over the loss of a companion. It is normal to feel the same feelings of grief you
would if this were a person that you loved and cared for. While we are not licensed psychology
professionals or doctors, we do understand your sorrow and sometimes it helps to just talk about
your loved one and how you felt about them.
We would love to hear your stories and maybe share some of our own stories with you. We would also be happy to give you some names of
professionals that can help with overcoming your grief. You are not alone; there are people who care and are available to help.
While most choices for your fun, furry or
cremated together, without maintaining their
feathered friend are endless, your choice for
with earth. At Fond Memories, this takes place
just as it is for each one of us. Knowing what
identity and the ashes are scattered and covered in a special area on our cemetery grounds.
Generally with this choice for final care, some types of memorials are sent to the owner so
they can have closure and be certain their wish-
es were carried out. Our facility has a memorial
their final care is up to you. Planning is essential, you will do and who you will turn to in your time of need will ease the burden of your profound loss. We genuinely care and are here to help in any way we can.
wall, where pet owners can place a plaque to
honor the memory of their beloved companion.
They are also welcome to visit anytime during Urban Paws Magazine 15
Training & Behavior Is Your Dog Digging in Your Newly Landscaped Yard?
By Chrissie DeCesare, Paw it Forward Training
Photo by Dawn Huczek
D
ogs love to dig, and for a variety of reasons that could include instinct, temperature control,
exploration, or just for the fun of it. If you have recently landscaped your yard, or are planning to do some weekend landscaping, you certainly donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want your dog to ruin all of that hard work.
Here are some tips to redirect and stop the digging. Remember, what works for one dog may not work
for every dog. Trial and error will play a part in this matter, but being consistent once you find what works is a key element. Reward behaviors you want, and do not reward those undesirable behaviors. One of the most important aspects of training to remember is be confident in yourself, stand your ground and do not give in to the adorable eyes staring back at you!
16 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
• There is the possibility your dog is bored by
• The Poop and Pineapple Combination. It
tally. If your dog is still full of energy after a long
your dog’s feces in the holes your dog created.
not being challenged enough, physically or menwalk, give him an interactive puzzle. For example, find a muffin tin and some golf balls. Put your dog’s favorite treat in the muffin tin and cover the treats with the golf balls. Do not
put a treat in every hole to create more of a challenge.
• Confine your dog when you can't supervise him.
• Blow up some balloons and bury them in the area your dog likes to dig. When a balloon is
doesn’t sound appealing but it is effective. Place
Most dogs do not like their own feces and will be somewhat offended such a disgusting thing is in the hold. The pineapple comes into play
because when your dog relieves himself with
pineapple in his system, the smell is extremely
offensive. This is also a great tool to use for dogs who like to eat feces. Mix about one teaspoon to one
tablespoon of pineapple with your dog’s food. Please consult your veterinarian before making any diet changes.
popped, the noise of it popping startles your
• If none of the above methods work, you may
many times is effective to extinguish a behavior.
collar or e-collar. This method does work,
dog. This is considered negative association and
Please supervise your dog if you try this because you do not want your dog to swallow the balloon pieces.
• If your dog has a favorite spot he likes to dig try burying some chicken wire just under the sur-
face. Dogs tend to not like the feeling of their nails scraping against the chicken wire.
want to consider a remote electronic training although this is not something commonly rec-
ommended to Paw It Forward Training clients. In reality it works the same way as many of the
other techniques because it provides a negative association to the act of digging.
Please remember that basic dog obedience training is a key element to correcting any dog behav-
ioral problems. We want to build trust and respect, not fear. Our goal is to have your dog eager to please you in all situations.
Urban Paws Magazine 17
Have Dog, Will Travel Adventures in the Lone Star State
pparently it's not just me. It seems as if most dog owners I speak to have some version of the Travel with your dog â&#x20AC;&#x153;insert destination hereâ&#x20AC;? book gathering dust in a forgotten corner. Some, like myself, even have a stack of said books.
A
It's a new year. Time to eat better, join the gym and spend more time with family, especially of the four-legged variety. This past year was hectic and sometimes, Ben, my erstwhile companion, didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t receive all of the attention that he so richly deserved, or better yet, needed. Did I mention that Ben's a cocker spaniel? As a consummate multi-tasker, I have for this new year, managed to roll two resolutions into one: Spend more time with the dog and see more of the glorious state of Texas. 18 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
By Lauren Gittens, Gannette Professional Pet Sitting
Tromping through the Piney Woods, camping at Enchanted Rock, floating the Guadalupe - every month we're going to try something different and visit a new place. It might not all be high adventure, maybe Sunday dinner at a restaurant with a dog-friendly patio and then a stroll around Montrose. And we'll definitely be checking out some of those dog-friendly B & B's. 2011 will be a year of work AND play. And what better companion than one who comes for the company and not necessarily the destination?
Co-Pilot Protection Plan Protect your Pet’s Health with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance U ä¯ v Þ ÕÀ ÛiÌ L «> ` v À U / « ,>Ìi` ÕÃÌ iÀ ->Ì Ãv>VÌ U £ä¯ viÌ i ÃV Õ Ì Your enrollment helps homeless pets! 7 Ì Þ ÕÀ i À i Ì] Üi ` >Ìi iÃÃi Ì > i` V> V>Ài Ì i « }iÌ > i iÃà «iÌ Ài>`Þ v À >` «Ì ° 6 Ã Ì GoHealthyPaws.com/UrbanPaws Ì }iÌ Þ ÕÀ Àii +Õ Ìi°
Gimme Shelter
Join us in helping our four-legged friends find loving homes. Adopt a dog today!
Guardian Pit Bull Rescue http://guardianpitrescue.petfinder.com Guardian Pit Bull Rescue is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving the lives of Pit Bulls. Our goal is to educate people by providing accurate information about this amazing and misunderstood group of breeds and find good homes for these great dogs. Our mission is to be advocates for this great breed in our community. We will attempt to rescue pit bulls in our local shelter and place them in great homes. Check out our web site to view more adoptable dogs. Volunteer or foster opportunities are available.
Our cover dog Hamill!
Hamill is about 3 years old and is a special needs dog. He is deaf, but fully trained with basic obedience hand signals and ecollar. He has a wonderful personality and a solid temperament, enjoying the company of all people, cats, and dogs. Most people don’t realize he is deaf because he’s always looking for your next direction. Unfortunately, most people can’t look past the fact that he is deaf once they find out. He is an easy-going, well-mannered, medium-sized package of happiness waiting for his new partner in life! He is a true ambassador for his breed, offering love and loyalty to everyone he meets!
Please note that these dogs may have been adopted by the time you visit them; however, there are many more wonderful dogs in need of forever homes. 18 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
Sarah
Sarah is about two years old and has already survived a miracle! She was pregnant and at the shelter. Once she started having her pups, it was evident things weren't going too well. None of the babies made it and Sarah had to have an emergency c-section, a blood transfusion, and lots of fluids and TLC in order to survive. Now Sarah is thriving in her long-term foster home and we're getting to know her. She is a mild mannered dog but has a definite wild side (don't we all?). Sarah loves playing fetch and tug, respects cats, and dislikes small dogs. Like most moms and pit bulls, she feels the need to "correct" other dogs who might be acting up. Sarah needs a good leader and will do best in a calm household getting moderate exercise daily. She's a great apartment dog, loves her crate, and is a big lover!
Rahjah
My name is Rahjah and I am a 2 1/2 year old male. I was rescued by my foster family at Guardian Pit Bull Rescue from a shelter in Montgomery County. Though I may look intimidating, I am anything but. The best thing in the world to me is being able to lay down next to you on the couch or in bed so you can pet me. I get along with most other dogs and great with people. I sometimes don’t realize how big I really am, so I will need an experienced and responsible owner that will make sure I mind my manners. I am looking for the right forever home that can continue to give me the same support and love that I will certainly give my new family. I am crate trained, house broken, and know how to sit, stay, and lay down. If you’re looking for a big guy that has just as big of a personality and an even bigger love for people then I’m your dog.
Alize
Buffy Buffy is a two-year-old female that has been spayed, is heartworm negative, micro-chipped, current on all shots, and on Heartguard and flea prevention. She is full of energy and more puppy like even though she is two! She loves to run around the yard full blast! She is learning a few manners and she will make an awesome pet/family member. She is great with all people and children. She is crate trained and is currently working on her manners. Buffy is a very sweet girl, loves attention, affection and just wants a family of her own to love. She rides well in cars and does really well on a leash.
Hemi
My name is Hemi. I am a twoyear-old neutered male, and yes, I am full grown. I adopted my foster family when I came into their yard and started playing with their two dogs. I refused to leave and kept coming back to play. Finally, they agreed to foster me. I love playing with other dogs, napping in my crate and cuddling up next to my foster parents to watch an occasional TV show. I don’t bark too much, but I will remind you that I’m outside if you forget to bring me in. Although I am a bit shy at first, I’m very affectionate. When we first go outside, I just might run circles around you and wag my tail up in the air to try to get you to play with me. I have a great temperament and will be a loyal companion and will offer you unconditional love at the end of every day.
Alize is a 1.5 year old female, weighing about 45 lbs. She is full of energy and still very much a puppy! Alize is crate trained and house trained. She has been spayed, heartworm negative, micro-chipped, is current on shots, Heartguard and flea prevention. She loves being around people and playing fetch, most of the time bringing the ball all the way back. A very sweet girl that just wants to be by your side.
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Pit Bull Bias Fact vs. Fiction By Jennifer Kitchens
S
adly, many among us have been conditioned by the exalted pit bull-related stories put forth in the media. And whether you are a supporter of the breed or not, it’s important to know that the vast majority of these stories are misinformed, limited accounts that represent a minority of incidents. The fact-based reports and statistics on this breed offer an entirely different picture. For starters, did you know that pit bulls were, actually breed to be nannies? Yes, they were breed to watch over children. In the 1940’s and 50’s they were referred to as “the nannies of America”. After all The Little Rascals had a pit bull and so did Helen Keller. The Pit Bull’s History Pit bulls have not only been trusted to care for human infants, but also have been branded as spokes-dogs for products and causes. Their professional portfolio includes serving as the face for RCA and they were America’s choice to convey loyalty and integrity on WWI and WWII campaign posters to enroll troops. Sergeant Stubby was the most decorated dog in military history, and the only dog to have been promoted during battle. He fought in the trenches of France for 18 months during WW1. Stubby was responsible for the capture of a German spy and succeeded in saving his platoon by warning them of a poisonous gas attach. Presidential figures, such as Woodrow Wilson 20 www.urbanpawsmagazine.com
The Little Rascals’ pal Petey
and Jimmy Carter both owned a loyal pit bull companion. And General George S. Patton's faithful bull pooch, Willie, was noted to have mourned his master's loss for a long time after the general's passing. More recent celebrity figures, such as Jon Stewart, Justin Timberlake, Brad Pitt and Jessica Alba, have been spotted, walking proud with their rescued pit bull companions. So why is it that only pit bulls are publicized for their bad behavior? Any dog can be an aggressive dog. Labs, terriers and retrievers are all on record for biting. The truth is that statistically American Pit Bulls are the least likely breed to bite.
Contrary to popular belief, pit bulls are naturally people-friendly dogs. In a recent study conducted by the American Temperament Testing Society (ATT), the American Pit Bull Terrier achieved a passing rate of 83.9%, better than beagles (78.2%) and golden retrievers (83.2%). How Far is Too Far? The question of banning the breed has sparked anger on both sides of the debate. Proponents of the ban believe that pit bulls are aggressive in nature and are ticking time bombs. Opponents defend the breed saying that they are simply protective and can be loving members of the family. Texas attorney Cynthia Stevens Kent is pushing to have all dog breeds that fall under the term “pit bull” outlawed in the state of Texas. Possession of a “pit bull”, as defined by Kent, would result in a third degree felony. In a nutshell, the first proposal would ban all pit bull type dogs in Texas, making it a felony to own one. An alternate proposal would allow local government entities to ban or restrict pit bulls in their jurisdiction. Justin’s Law is the legislation aptly named after Justin Clinton, a 10-year-old boy that was mauled to death in 2009 by two pit bulls. After winning a $7 million civil suit against the dog’s owner, the Clinton’s are now proposing the legislation, though it currently has no sponsors of the Legislature. Regardless of the breed, all dog owners are ultimately responsible for their canine companions. It is only with proper education and training that we can prevent the negative media that surrounds pit bulls.
Decorated military dog, Sargeant Stubby
in North Houston, is taking the necessary and proactive steps to change the public’s view of pit bulls. “We take steps beyond just rescue and adoption, for us that’s only a small part of our duties. We educate the public by working with local schools, advocating against breed discrimination and breed specific legislation, and promoting responsible pit bull ownership in our community through our Ambassador Training program where we create ambassadors on both ends of the leash.” Ogden says that running any dog rescue is a challenge, but running a dog rescue for a breed many believe should not even exist is completely different. Despite legislation aimed at banning breed entirely and the media demonizing the pit bull’s reputation, he feels fortunate to be able to stand up and be the voice for these great dogs. While Ogden is often reminded that this is a long and uphill battle, he feels confident that great strides will be made, with the support of our community.
A Proactive Solution Aaron Ogden, founder of Guardian Pit Bull Rescue, a non-profit pit bull specific dog rescue Urban Paws Magazine 21
The Scoop Canine news, Reviews and Cool stuff ! Today there are over 300,000 apps available through Apple. We’ve located some of the most useful and practical apps for dog owners. Download them to your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch to find dog friendly parks, pet first aid tips and more. Many of them are free, while others cost just $3.99. Dog Park Finder Near home or on the go, the Dog Park Finder app powered byDogParkUSA.com has you covered with listings of 2,400+ dog parks. Using your phone’s GPS, it finds the nearest park, and includes photos, user reviews and details, such as if it’s fenced, has small dog areas, and the hours and days of operation. FREE.
Paw Card With the Paw Card app, create an unlimited number of profiles for your dogs, cats, and other pets to keep track of their vital information and always have it with you. Record your pet's ID tag numbers and vet contacts, and track your pet's medications, medical and vaccination history, and more. That’s not all, email your pet's Paw Card to your dog walker, pet sitter, or vet. FREE. iSqueek Always have a squeaky toy on hand to get your dog’s attention, thanks to the iSqueek app, a virtual squeak-toy that reacts realistically to your touch. Press on any of the 18 toys, each with it’s own sound, to create long or short sound bursts to which your dog will respond. $1.99. Pet First Aid Be prepared with the Pet First Aid app and you’ll have instant access to clear, concise advice for common pet emergencies. With detailed articles, video, and illustrations, you'll know exactly how to care for your pet. Learn how to handle bites and stings, bandaging, burns, bleeding, fractures, poisoning, and much more. $3.99. FidoFactor Locate all the dog friendly spots in your area with the FidoFactor app – dog parks, dog friendly restaurants, bars, pet stores, hotels, and more. And not only will you find directions, hours and contact information in its growing user-generated database, you’ll also find user reviews too. FREE.
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Urban Paws Magazine 23