What a way for a dog to spend the day. I love the beach!
Woof! Woof!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Firefighter Tries to Save Dog
An off-duty firefighter who performed mouth-to-snout resuscitation on a terrier poodle is being heralded as a hero.Steve Quick spent about five minutes doing CPR on Diana Bolger's dog, Brandy, after it was struck by a car at the corner of Park Avenue and Billard Avenue in Mount Pearl Thursday afternoon.
The animal wasn't breathing and didn't have heartbeat, but by blowing through its nose, the firefighter revived it.
His efforts gave enough Bolger a chance to spend a few minutes with Brandy before the dog succumbed to its injuries en route to the nearby Sunrise Animal Hospital."I was fascinated, overwhelmed. I think (Quick) is a hero," says Bolger. "I thank him with all my heart and soul that he is such a compassionate human being that he would help out an animal."
When contacted, Quick lived up to his surname, promptly dismissing the praise."Oh God, I don't want to be called a hero," says the member of the St. John's Regional Fire Department."That's a bit much. I'd never pass by an animal in distress like that."
Quick says he is simply an animal lover
http://www.thewesternstar.com/index.cfm?sid=116134&sc=506
That's one modest human. Anyone who tries to save a dog's life is a hero in my eyes. You need fast thinking to do CPR on a dog. It is quite sad that Brandy didn't make it.
Woof! Woof!
The animal wasn't breathing and didn't have heartbeat, but by blowing through its nose, the firefighter revived it.
His efforts gave enough Bolger a chance to spend a few minutes with Brandy before the dog succumbed to its injuries en route to the nearby Sunrise Animal Hospital."I was fascinated, overwhelmed. I think (Quick) is a hero," says Bolger. "I thank him with all my heart and soul that he is such a compassionate human being that he would help out an animal."
When contacted, Quick lived up to his surname, promptly dismissing the praise."Oh God, I don't want to be called a hero," says the member of the St. John's Regional Fire Department."That's a bit much. I'd never pass by an animal in distress like that."
Quick says he is simply an animal lover
http://www.thewesternstar.com/index.cfm?sid=116134&sc=506
That's one modest human. Anyone who tries to save a dog's life is a hero in my eyes. You need fast thinking to do CPR on a dog. It is quite sad that Brandy didn't make it.
Woof! Woof!
Tiny Tiny Therapy Dog
Tiny Dancer was barking up the wrong tree last year. The diminutive Chihuahua came close to grabbing a Guinness World Record as the world's smallest dog, but other pooches turned out to be even smaller than the 5-inch-tall Lake County, Fla., pup.
Now, Dancer's owner has embarked on another quest: to have the teensy fellow named the world's smallest therapy dog. Dancer recently spent weeks in training to learn how to help hospital patients and others in need of some cheer.
Jenny Gomes of Okahumpka, Fla., said last month that several therapy-dog certification agencies turned Tiny Dancer down because of his size. But the little guy overcame defeat, tried, tried again, and finally received the paperwork.
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080311/FEATURES01/803110393
I could eat that little guy for breakfast. But I won't, he's a working therapy dog now - all 12 ounces of him.
Woof! Woof!
Now, Dancer's owner has embarked on another quest: to have the teensy fellow named the world's smallest therapy dog. Dancer recently spent weeks in training to learn how to help hospital patients and others in need of some cheer.
Jenny Gomes of Okahumpka, Fla., said last month that several therapy-dog certification agencies turned Tiny Dancer down because of his size. But the little guy overcame defeat, tried, tried again, and finally received the paperwork.
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080311/FEATURES01/803110393
I could eat that little guy for breakfast. But I won't, he's a working therapy dog now - all 12 ounces of him.
Woof! Woof!
Guide Dog Honored
One of Australian Customs' most successful drug detector dogs, Utah, has been recognised for his outstanding service.
In his seven-and-a-half years working with Customs, Utah was responsible for detecting more than 150 kilograms of illicit drugs including cocaine, heroin and MDMA.
At Parliament House in Canberra today, Minister for Home Affairs Bob Debus presented Utah with his award, calling him the $27 million dog.
"The largest haul of drugs that he ever detected was something like 400,000 ecstasy pills, which were worth on the market $27 million," the minister said.
Mr Debus said Utah is possibly the most successful detector dog bred by the Customs Dog Detector Program, which helps protect Australia from prohibited imports such as drugs, firearms and explosives.
In 1993, Customs began a pilot breeding program using labradors purchased from the Guide Dog Association of Australia and leading breeders. The program is now the only source of Customs detector dogs.
Utah will be spending his retirement living with his handler Yencie Fogden in Yass.
Good work guys!
Woof! Woof!
In his seven-and-a-half years working with Customs, Utah was responsible for detecting more than 150 kilograms of illicit drugs including cocaine, heroin and MDMA.
At Parliament House in Canberra today, Minister for Home Affairs Bob Debus presented Utah with his award, calling him the $27 million dog.
"The largest haul of drugs that he ever detected was something like 400,000 ecstasy pills, which were worth on the market $27 million," the minister said.
Mr Debus said Utah is possibly the most successful detector dog bred by the Customs Dog Detector Program, which helps protect Australia from prohibited imports such as drugs, firearms and explosives.
In 1993, Customs began a pilot breeding program using labradors purchased from the Guide Dog Association of Australia and leading breeders. The program is now the only source of Customs detector dogs.
Utah will be spending his retirement living with his handler Yencie Fogden in Yass.
Good work guys!
Woof! Woof!
California Residents Hope for a Dog Park
Many dog owners are chasing the idea of a dog park or having designated hours in Cupertino parks where their pets would be allowed to run free. They say they're frustrated at having to drive 10 to 15 minutes to the nearest dog park in a neighboring city.
"It's so silly to have to put your dog in a car for 15 minutes just to get them out and be able to run leash-free," said Betsy Dougherty, a dog owner and Cupertino resident.
Owners say a dog park in Cupertino would benefit more than the dogs.
"I've met a lot of people that I would never have met if I didn't have a dog," Lisa Geifer said. "It promotes a tremendous sense of community."
Geifer, a Cupertino planning commissioner, and other residents near Linda Vista Park, created Cupertino Doggie Mamas. The group has met up for brunch and dog-dates at the beach.
A dog park, Geifer said, would also benefit people with disabilities and elderly dog owners who are unable to take their dogs on long walks.
"They would be able to take their dogs to an off-leash area and sit on a park bench, all while being in compliance with the law," she said.
A group of dog owners, including Doughery and Mike Hsu, had begun meeting early mornings with their dogs at a Cupertino park before they were informed by Santa Clara County's division of animal control that having their dogs off leash was a misdemeanor.
http://www.mercurynews.com/valley/ci_8511421?nclick_check=1
Dog parks are great things. It gives dogs socialization while their owners get socialized too! I hope these guys can find a way to make it happen.
Woof! Woof!
"It's so silly to have to put your dog in a car for 15 minutes just to get them out and be able to run leash-free," said Betsy Dougherty, a dog owner and Cupertino resident.
Owners say a dog park in Cupertino would benefit more than the dogs.
"I've met a lot of people that I would never have met if I didn't have a dog," Lisa Geifer said. "It promotes a tremendous sense of community."
Geifer, a Cupertino planning commissioner, and other residents near Linda Vista Park, created Cupertino Doggie Mamas. The group has met up for brunch and dog-dates at the beach.
A dog park, Geifer said, would also benefit people with disabilities and elderly dog owners who are unable to take their dogs on long walks.
"They would be able to take their dogs to an off-leash area and sit on a park bench, all while being in compliance with the law," she said.
A group of dog owners, including Doughery and Mike Hsu, had begun meeting early mornings with their dogs at a Cupertino park before they were informed by Santa Clara County's division of animal control that having their dogs off leash was a misdemeanor.
http://www.mercurynews.com/valley/ci_8511421?nclick_check=1
Dog parks are great things. It gives dogs socialization while their owners get socialized too! I hope these guys can find a way to make it happen.
Woof! Woof!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Dog Owners Be on the Watch for Snakes
It's rattlesnake time in the backcountry, when rattlers start stirring from winter dormancy and looking for food.
The chance that your pet dog or hunting dog stumbles onto one of these critters is real. Veterinarian bills can run into the thousands of dollars when a dog is bitten by a rattlesnake. There's a chance a dog won't die from a bite, but the pain and suffering will be hard on the dog, and vet bills could be a financial hardship for any dog owner.
But there's a way to keep dog's out of harm's way.
Tracy Jenson-Presson at High On Kennels in Mesa Grande, about 12 miles from Santa Ysabel, offers snake-avoidance classes for all dogs.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/sports/outdoors/20080308-9999-1s8outnotes.html
If you live in an area with a high snake population, please read this article. Snake bites kill people!
Woof! Woof!
The chance that your pet dog or hunting dog stumbles onto one of these critters is real. Veterinarian bills can run into the thousands of dollars when a dog is bitten by a rattlesnake. There's a chance a dog won't die from a bite, but the pain and suffering will be hard on the dog, and vet bills could be a financial hardship for any dog owner.
But there's a way to keep dog's out of harm's way.
Tracy Jenson-Presson at High On Kennels in Mesa Grande, about 12 miles from Santa Ysabel, offers snake-avoidance classes for all dogs.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/sports/outdoors/20080308-9999-1s8outnotes.html
If you live in an area with a high snake population, please read this article. Snake bites kill people!
Woof! Woof!
Dogs Going Green
It doesn't take long for a human trend to envelop pets.
If people are eating organic food, wearing environmentally friendly clothes and sleeping on holistic beds, many American pet owners want the same for their furry friends.
The green trend has been evolving for several years but took off after the massive recall of tainted pet food last year.
"The lifestyles of the animals are starting to parallel the lifestyles of the humans," said Sam Blackford, owner of Sam's Downtown Feed & Pet Supply in San Jose. "We've seen a big increase in customer demand for holistic food or pet food with human grade ingredients."
Pet stores now sell hemp toys, English rubber toys labeled Earth-friendly and a line of Planet Dog products labeled as non-toxic and recyclable.
"What we're seeing now is all natural pet bedding for some of the smaller pets, completely organic and biodegradable bedding for hamsters and gerbils," said Michelle Friedman, spokeswoman for PetSmart's more than 1,000 pet stores.
"The most offbeat are the meals that are refrigerated" for dogs, she said. "We have a line called Deli Fresh that is kept refrigerated. It looks like your Mom's stew that she used to cook at home."
With a lucrative $43.4 billion pet industry market and more than 71 million U.S. households that have at least one pet, the green trend is expected to be huge.
http://www.mercurynews.com/entertainmentheadlines/ci_8501482?nclick_check=1
We've been trying for world peace for the longest time, so I guess it's about time we dogs got onboard to end global warming too. Recycled toys and earth friendly packaging will give us a leg up.
Woof! Woof!
If people are eating organic food, wearing environmentally friendly clothes and sleeping on holistic beds, many American pet owners want the same for their furry friends.
The green trend has been evolving for several years but took off after the massive recall of tainted pet food last year.
"The lifestyles of the animals are starting to parallel the lifestyles of the humans," said Sam Blackford, owner of Sam's Downtown Feed & Pet Supply in San Jose. "We've seen a big increase in customer demand for holistic food or pet food with human grade ingredients."
Pet stores now sell hemp toys, English rubber toys labeled Earth-friendly and a line of Planet Dog products labeled as non-toxic and recyclable.
"What we're seeing now is all natural pet bedding for some of the smaller pets, completely organic and biodegradable bedding for hamsters and gerbils," said Michelle Friedman, spokeswoman for PetSmart's more than 1,000 pet stores.
"The most offbeat are the meals that are refrigerated" for dogs, she said. "We have a line called Deli Fresh that is kept refrigerated. It looks like your Mom's stew that she used to cook at home."
With a lucrative $43.4 billion pet industry market and more than 71 million U.S. households that have at least one pet, the green trend is expected to be huge.
http://www.mercurynews.com/entertainmentheadlines/ci_8501482?nclick_check=1
We've been trying for world peace for the longest time, so I guess it's about time we dogs got onboard to end global warming too. Recycled toys and earth friendly packaging will give us a leg up.
Woof! Woof!
Iditarod Update
RUBY, Alaska (AP) — The jostling at the front of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race continued Friday with defending champion Lance Mackey regaining the lead during the run to this scenic village on the Yukon River.
The Fairbanks musher was the first to leave the race's halfway point, the Cripple checkpoint, late Thursday. He took off nearly two-and-a-half hours ahead of Hans Gatt of Whitehorse, Yukon, on the 112-mile leg to Ruby.
The first musher into Ruby is feted by the community with a bounty of food — a seven-course meal — and $5,000 in $1 bills.
Other mushers en route to Ruby were four-time winner Jeff King of Denali Park; the race's only five-time winner, Rick Swenson of Two Rivers; Kjetil Backen of Norway; Aaron Burmeister of Nome; and 2004 champion Mitch Seavey of Seward.
On Thursday, DeeDee Jonrowe was flabbergasted — and a few thousand dollars richer — when she beat Paul Gebhardt to the halfway mark at Cripple.
"No, no, isn't Paul here?" the popular veteran musher from Willow asked race volunteers as she arrived at the tent checkpoint at 6:22 a.m. Thursday, followed eight minutes later by Gebhardt, last year's runner-up. For being the first to the official halfway point, the 54-year-old won $3,000 in gold nuggets.
Jonrowe had passed a musher going the wrong way. But she never expected it to be the 50-year-old Gebhardt, who left the previous checkpoint nearly six hours before her. He was obviously lost, wasting crucial time in the 1,100-mile race. In 2006, Gebhardt's sled slammed into a tree and he temporarily lost his dog team, but went on to finish third in the race.
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5g3T59XZ0F9Sguh4zNxXoJ7CXqnVAD8V8MN0G0
What a race!
Woof! Woof!
The Fairbanks musher was the first to leave the race's halfway point, the Cripple checkpoint, late Thursday. He took off nearly two-and-a-half hours ahead of Hans Gatt of Whitehorse, Yukon, on the 112-mile leg to Ruby.
The first musher into Ruby is feted by the community with a bounty of food — a seven-course meal — and $5,000 in $1 bills.
Other mushers en route to Ruby were four-time winner Jeff King of Denali Park; the race's only five-time winner, Rick Swenson of Two Rivers; Kjetil Backen of Norway; Aaron Burmeister of Nome; and 2004 champion Mitch Seavey of Seward.
On Thursday, DeeDee Jonrowe was flabbergasted — and a few thousand dollars richer — when she beat Paul Gebhardt to the halfway mark at Cripple.
"No, no, isn't Paul here?" the popular veteran musher from Willow asked race volunteers as she arrived at the tent checkpoint at 6:22 a.m. Thursday, followed eight minutes later by Gebhardt, last year's runner-up. For being the first to the official halfway point, the 54-year-old won $3,000 in gold nuggets.
Jonrowe had passed a musher going the wrong way. But she never expected it to be the 50-year-old Gebhardt, who left the previous checkpoint nearly six hours before her. He was obviously lost, wasting crucial time in the 1,100-mile race. In 2006, Gebhardt's sled slammed into a tree and he temporarily lost his dog team, but went on to finish third in the race.
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5g3T59XZ0F9Sguh4zNxXoJ7CXqnVAD8V8MN0G0
What a race!
Woof! Woof!
Spotlight: The Dog Whisperer
Chatting over breakfast at the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham recently with Cesar Millan, acclaimed dog trainer and star of the National Geographic Channel's Emmy-nominated "Dog Whisperer," something unexpected is becoming quite clear: The guy is a major shopper.
He's wearing a pretty blue cashmere sweater and a new Louis Vuitton scarf and a new and very cute camel-colored Burberry toggle coat he bought on sale for $400 during a trip to Philadelphia because it was such a good deal. He looks at a reporter's shoes and tells her that his wife has a similar pair -- only hers are Prada -- and that he picks out most of his wife's clothes because she isn't such a good shopper. But we digress.
Millan, 38, is in town on this snowy day because, as a popular player on the speaker circuit, he's signed on to give a motivational speech to the Ad Craft Club of Detroit. While he's here, he's agreed to chat with us about whatever we want, including whether he, in deference to his pack of dogs, abstains from eating hot dogs. Puzzled by our question, he says: "They don't know we call them hot dogs."
As founder of the Dog Psychology Center, a rehabilitation facility in south central Los Angeles for troubled dogs, Millan is famous for turning the most problematic pooch into a good citizen -- which means one who doesn't bite or pull at the leash or misbehave. Dogs, he says, are pack animals who need a pack leader. Once an owner decides to be leader of the pack, the dog will become what Millan calls "calm-submissive" and well-behaved.
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080307/FEATURES01/803070322
Hey, I like this guy. He helps a lot of people learn to live amicably with their dogs and that's a good thing. Also, if I were still into chewing stuff, a blue cashmere sweater sounds nice. It's probably soft and a little chewy. As for the hot dogs, we do know what they're called but we also know that they're not actually made from real dogs.
Woof! Woof!
He's wearing a pretty blue cashmere sweater and a new Louis Vuitton scarf and a new and very cute camel-colored Burberry toggle coat he bought on sale for $400 during a trip to Philadelphia because it was such a good deal. He looks at a reporter's shoes and tells her that his wife has a similar pair -- only hers are Prada -- and that he picks out most of his wife's clothes because she isn't such a good shopper. But we digress.
Millan, 38, is in town on this snowy day because, as a popular player on the speaker circuit, he's signed on to give a motivational speech to the Ad Craft Club of Detroit. While he's here, he's agreed to chat with us about whatever we want, including whether he, in deference to his pack of dogs, abstains from eating hot dogs. Puzzled by our question, he says: "They don't know we call them hot dogs."
As founder of the Dog Psychology Center, a rehabilitation facility in south central Los Angeles for troubled dogs, Millan is famous for turning the most problematic pooch into a good citizen -- which means one who doesn't bite or pull at the leash or misbehave. Dogs, he says, are pack animals who need a pack leader. Once an owner decides to be leader of the pack, the dog will become what Millan calls "calm-submissive" and well-behaved.
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080307/FEATURES01/803070322
Hey, I like this guy. He helps a lot of people learn to live amicably with their dogs and that's a good thing. Also, if I were still into chewing stuff, a blue cashmere sweater sounds nice. It's probably soft and a little chewy. As for the hot dogs, we do know what they're called but we also know that they're not actually made from real dogs.
Woof! Woof!
Diving Dog Duke
He's a duck hunter's dream dog come true. Check out Duke, the 4-year-old wonder lab that not only fetches birds in the field, but retrieves bumpers, pennies, and empty beer bottles from the bottom of his owner’s pool in SoCal.
“I can’t keep him out of the pool,” says owner Doug Nail. “He lives in his own world.”
http://www.fieldandstream.com/article_gallery.jsp?ID=1000019006
Sweet! I never heard of a dog holding his breath underwater like that before.
Woof! Woof!
“I can’t keep him out of the pool,” says owner Doug Nail. “He lives in his own world.”
http://www.fieldandstream.com/article_gallery.jsp?ID=1000019006
Sweet! I never heard of a dog holding his breath underwater like that before.
Woof! Woof!
Michigan Dog Show
DETROIT — Diane Ingram, owner of the Doggy Deli in Clinton Township, attracted a steady crowd at her booth during the Detroit Kennel Club’s 100th and 101st Dog Shows at the Cobo Convention Center March 1-2, where Ingram displayed her chewy, all-natural handmade dog biscuits.
Ingram and her husband, Bruce, participate in close to 40 dog shows a year to help promote their business, but they especially love the Detroit show.
“It brings in a variety of people and gives us great exposure,” said Ingram, the owner of four dogs. She started a business after experimenting in her kitchen while making treats for her pets.
Some 2,500 dogs representing 169 breeds were on display at Cobo last weekend, along with a myriad of vendors selling their wares, from dog food to kennels, T-shirts to jewelry, and from magazine subscriptions to custom artwork.
The DKC’s annual shows are among five “benched” dog shows in the country, which means breeders, owners and their dogs must remain in the building and on display for the public to view, touch and ask questions, making it a unique and popular event.
http://www.candgnews.com/Homepage-Articles/2008/3-5-08/XF-COBODOGSHOW.asp
Enough about the dog show, talk more about those bakery dog treats.
Woof! Woof!
Ingram and her husband, Bruce, participate in close to 40 dog shows a year to help promote their business, but they especially love the Detroit show.
“It brings in a variety of people and gives us great exposure,” said Ingram, the owner of four dogs. She started a business after experimenting in her kitchen while making treats for her pets.
Some 2,500 dogs representing 169 breeds were on display at Cobo last weekend, along with a myriad of vendors selling their wares, from dog food to kennels, T-shirts to jewelry, and from magazine subscriptions to custom artwork.
The DKC’s annual shows are among five “benched” dog shows in the country, which means breeders, owners and their dogs must remain in the building and on display for the public to view, touch and ask questions, making it a unique and popular event.
http://www.candgnews.com/Homepage-Articles/2008/3-5-08/XF-COBODOGSHOW.asp
Enough about the dog show, talk more about those bakery dog treats.
Woof! Woof!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
After Dog Food Recalls, Not Much Changes
One year after contaminated pet food killed potentially thousands of dogs and cats, few safety measures have gone into effect.
While pet food safety legislation has been passed and an industry commission has made recommendations to improve the safety and quality standards for pet food, some critics say the efforts, even when they are fully implemented, may not amount to much more than the fox guarding the hen house.
The federal legislation, for instance, relies on manufacturers to voluntarily recall contaminated pet food. “As long as it’s voluntary, there will always be breaches,” says Marion Nestle, a professor of nutrition, food studies and public health at New York University and author of the forthcoming book “Pet Food Politics: The Chihuahua in the Coal Mine,” due out in September. “There will be breaches anyway, but voluntary doesn’t work as well as regulated.”
Because there is no national tracking system that monitors pet deaths, there is no definitive tally of animals that died from consuming pet food made with imported Chinese ingredients tainted with the chemical melamine.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23505218/
This gets under my fur worse than the UPS guy.
It's amazing after everything that happened the regulations aren't coming on strong. My food is made in the USA and Canada using only human grade ingredients, so I'm not worried, but think of the millions of pets who eat Ol Roy every day. There should be some kind of regulation in place to protect them.
Woof! Woof!
While pet food safety legislation has been passed and an industry commission has made recommendations to improve the safety and quality standards for pet food, some critics say the efforts, even when they are fully implemented, may not amount to much more than the fox guarding the hen house.
The federal legislation, for instance, relies on manufacturers to voluntarily recall contaminated pet food. “As long as it’s voluntary, there will always be breaches,” says Marion Nestle, a professor of nutrition, food studies and public health at New York University and author of the forthcoming book “Pet Food Politics: The Chihuahua in the Coal Mine,” due out in September. “There will be breaches anyway, but voluntary doesn’t work as well as regulated.”
Because there is no national tracking system that monitors pet deaths, there is no definitive tally of animals that died from consuming pet food made with imported Chinese ingredients tainted with the chemical melamine.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23505218/
This gets under my fur worse than the UPS guy.
It's amazing after everything that happened the regulations aren't coming on strong. My food is made in the USA and Canada using only human grade ingredients, so I'm not worried, but think of the millions of pets who eat Ol Roy every day. There should be some kind of regulation in place to protect them.
Woof! Woof!
Vets Unite to End Canine Obesity
It's no secret that Americans are heavier then they were a decade ago. Unfortunately, so is 40 percent of the United States pet population, said Dr. Stephanie Streitz of Essington Road Animal Hospital in Joliet. That's 17 million of this country's 41 million dogs, according to a March 3 story at Fox News.
Being chubby may look cute on some pets, but it also brings an increased risk for heart disease, breathing disorders and joint problems, especially in the knees and hips. Unlike many humans, pets are powerless to fix the problem and must rely on their owners to do it for them.
"I am treating more diabetes than I did 20 years ago. It's a huge problem," Streitz said. "I immediately intervene when I see an animal going down that road. Some of them are only 2 and 3 years old, which is way too young for these animals to get heavy because they're just babies at this point. But if we don't start now, the weight is a lot harder to take off."
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/heraldnews/lifestyles/846648,4_5_JO18_FATCATS_S1.article
I'm glad that my daily walks keep me pretty trim. Maybe I should cut down on table scraps though, just to be careful.
Woof! Woof!
Being chubby may look cute on some pets, but it also brings an increased risk for heart disease, breathing disorders and joint problems, especially in the knees and hips. Unlike many humans, pets are powerless to fix the problem and must rely on their owners to do it for them.
"I am treating more diabetes than I did 20 years ago. It's a huge problem," Streitz said. "I immediately intervene when I see an animal going down that road. Some of them are only 2 and 3 years old, which is way too young for these animals to get heavy because they're just babies at this point. But if we don't start now, the weight is a lot harder to take off."
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/heraldnews/lifestyles/846648,4_5_JO18_FATCATS_S1.article
I'm glad that my daily walks keep me pretty trim. Maybe I should cut down on table scraps though, just to be careful.
Woof! Woof!
New Rules for Animals in the Sacramento Area
SACRAMENTO – A herd of animal measures will once again challenge state lawmakers this year.
And La Jolla Assemblyman George Plescia is in the middle of the pack, carrying a trio of measures, from the serious to the playful.
On a somber note, the Republican proposes to toughen penalties for those who kill or injure police dogs – an outgrowth of the New Year's Eve loss of Stryker, a Belgian Malinois who drowned when a cornered suspect jumped off the San Diego-Coronado Bridge with the dog in tow.
On a lighter note, Plescia has introduced a resolution that would declare June 20 as “take your dog to work day.” Plescia said it would spotlight “how healthy it is to have a dog” and “encourage people to go to the Humane Society to adopt a dog.”
No word yet on whether cat fanciers will yowl for equality.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/state/20080304-9999-1n4animals.html
Bring your dog to work day? Sounds like something that would be fun for my people but very boring for me. I'd much rather stay home and chase squirrels.
Woof! Woof!
And La Jolla Assemblyman George Plescia is in the middle of the pack, carrying a trio of measures, from the serious to the playful.
On a somber note, the Republican proposes to toughen penalties for those who kill or injure police dogs – an outgrowth of the New Year's Eve loss of Stryker, a Belgian Malinois who drowned when a cornered suspect jumped off the San Diego-Coronado Bridge with the dog in tow.
On a lighter note, Plescia has introduced a resolution that would declare June 20 as “take your dog to work day.” Plescia said it would spotlight “how healthy it is to have a dog” and “encourage people to go to the Humane Society to adopt a dog.”
No word yet on whether cat fanciers will yowl for equality.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/state/20080304-9999-1n4animals.html
Bring your dog to work day? Sounds like something that would be fun for my people but very boring for me. I'd much rather stay home and chase squirrels.
Woof! Woof!
Kennel Clubs Donate First Aid Kits to Police Pooches
Thanks to two kennel clubs in Pennsylvania, all 23 state police dog teams in the state will be supplied with canine first-aid kits.
The Kennel Clubs of Lancaster and Delaware County joined to donate $2,500 -- money raised from dog-show entrance fees -- for the kits, which include items such as dog-sized splints for broken legs and tools to pull glass out of paws.
http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/features/mutts/blog/2008/03/thanks_to_two_local_kennel.html
Yes! Let's support these hard working dogs. Bravo Lancaster and Delaware County Kennel Clubs.
Woof! Woof!
The Kennel Clubs of Lancaster and Delaware County joined to donate $2,500 -- money raised from dog-show entrance fees -- for the kits, which include items such as dog-sized splints for broken legs and tools to pull glass out of paws.
http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/features/mutts/blog/2008/03/thanks_to_two_local_kennel.html
Yes! Let's support these hard working dogs. Bravo Lancaster and Delaware County Kennel Clubs.
Woof! Woof!
Biscuit Emerges from Drainpipe Intact
MOORESTOWN — Here's a tale about a dog whose bark may have been worse than his plight.
Biscuit, a Jack Russell terrier, emerged from a 12-inch drainage pipe behind the Winstead Village apartments on Andrews Avenue last night after spending an undetermined amount of time inside.
Some apartment residents said they had believed Biscuit was trapped, since they had heard his bark emanating from the pipe since sometime Saturday morning. But police said the dog's owner, whose name was not released, told them Biscuit routinely enters the pipe to occupy himself.
Was Biscuit at risk or at play? No one knows for sure.
http://www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/112-03032008-1497190.html
That's why I always stay away from drainpipes.
Woof! Woof!
Biscuit, a Jack Russell terrier, emerged from a 12-inch drainage pipe behind the Winstead Village apartments on Andrews Avenue last night after spending an undetermined amount of time inside.
Some apartment residents said they had believed Biscuit was trapped, since they had heard his bark emanating from the pipe since sometime Saturday morning. But police said the dog's owner, whose name was not released, told them Biscuit routinely enters the pipe to occupy himself.
Was Biscuit at risk or at play? No one knows for sure.
http://www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/112-03032008-1497190.html
That's why I always stay away from drainpipes.
Woof! Woof!
Ellen Gets in the Dog Food Business
Well crazy or not, Ellen loves her some pets and has decided to put her money where her mouth is…literally (you’ll get that joke later).
The comedian turned talk show host just recently purchased Halo, a well known natural pet food company, and will be producing her own brand of pet food.
Ellen told Parade magazine that her food is SO natural that even humans can eat it. She said, “Ours is all human grade. It’s all natural. And yes, you can eat it. People love their animals so much so that they put little clothes on them and necklaces and booties and things like that. And if you love your animal, then you should feed them something that’s not dangerous for them. There’s a lot of poisonous stuff that they’re putting in a lot of that food, those by-products.”
http://www.ecorazzi.com/2008/03/03/ellen-degeneres-buys-her-own-dog-food-company/
No by products? Sounds good to me.
Woof! Woof!
The comedian turned talk show host just recently purchased Halo, a well known natural pet food company, and will be producing her own brand of pet food.
Ellen told Parade magazine that her food is SO natural that even humans can eat it. She said, “Ours is all human grade. It’s all natural. And yes, you can eat it. People love their animals so much so that they put little clothes on them and necklaces and booties and things like that. And if you love your animal, then you should feed them something that’s not dangerous for them. There’s a lot of poisonous stuff that they’re putting in a lot of that food, those by-products.”
http://www.ecorazzi.com/2008/03/03/ellen-degeneres-buys-her-own-dog-food-company/
No by products? Sounds good to me.
Woof! Woof!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Huskies Get Checked Out for Iditarod
Stuart Nelson is unloading boxes at Northern Air Cargo. In an hour or so, he will drive back to Iditarod headquarters in Wasilla and spend the rest of his day examining blood samples of dogs entered in this year's race.
The weekend won't offer much of a break. On Saturday, he will continue screening blood work and calling Iditarod mushers with the results.
On Sunday, he may be able to briefly relax.
"There are a lot of things going on right now," said Nelson, the Iditarod's chief veterinarian for 13 years and before that a volunteer trail veterinarian for nine years.
This Iditarod, his 22nd, is the busiest. With 96 mushers due to race, this is the biggest Iditarod field ever. Multiply each musher by the 16 to 24 dogs they are allowed to bring with them to the race's start (only 16 dogs can ultimately be chosen for the team), and you're talking nearly 2,000 canines to check.
http://www.adn.com/iditarod/2008/features/story/332353.html
Good man. I'm sure glad that I'm not running in that race. If you're not the lead dog the view never changes, you know?
Woof! Woof!
The weekend won't offer much of a break. On Saturday, he will continue screening blood work and calling Iditarod mushers with the results.
On Sunday, he may be able to briefly relax.
"There are a lot of things going on right now," said Nelson, the Iditarod's chief veterinarian for 13 years and before that a volunteer trail veterinarian for nine years.
This Iditarod, his 22nd, is the busiest. With 96 mushers due to race, this is the biggest Iditarod field ever. Multiply each musher by the 16 to 24 dogs they are allowed to bring with them to the race's start (only 16 dogs can ultimately be chosen for the team), and you're talking nearly 2,000 canines to check.
http://www.adn.com/iditarod/2008/features/story/332353.html
Good man. I'm sure glad that I'm not running in that race. If you're not the lead dog the view never changes, you know?
Woof! Woof!
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Volunteers Care For Rescued Dogs
It's 3 a.m., and the only other place she'd rather be is in bed. Instead, Carmen Goldade sits in her steam-soaked bathroom, cooing get-well words to the sick dog cradled in her arms.
Her kitchen counter resembles a pharmacy. Drops for his urine-burned eyes. Antibiotics for an upper respiratory infection. Pills for intestinal parasites.
Tyson, the toy Shih Tzu with a bad cold, was among nearly 100 dogs seized from an Ellis County breeder last fall.
Such places that breed and sell dogs in large quantities are called puppy mills. To maximize profit, some breeders refuse to spend money on health screenings, adequate shelter or food. As a result, many of their dogs go to market with weak immune systems or behavioral problems.
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/030208dnmetpuppymain.3acc059.html
The amazing thing about this story is that the state still couldn't file criminal charges against this particular puppy mill operation so they will probably end up with more dogs in their care. Puppy mills are terrible businesses. Who knows how many dogs live in harsh conditions every day. Thank goodness for the kind people who will foster dogs rescued from these bad places.
Woof! Woof!
Her kitchen counter resembles a pharmacy. Drops for his urine-burned eyes. Antibiotics for an upper respiratory infection. Pills for intestinal parasites.
Tyson, the toy Shih Tzu with a bad cold, was among nearly 100 dogs seized from an Ellis County breeder last fall.
Such places that breed and sell dogs in large quantities are called puppy mills. To maximize profit, some breeders refuse to spend money on health screenings, adequate shelter or food. As a result, many of their dogs go to market with weak immune systems or behavioral problems.
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/030208dnmetpuppymain.3acc059.html
The amazing thing about this story is that the state still couldn't file criminal charges against this particular puppy mill operation so they will probably end up with more dogs in their care. Puppy mills are terrible businesses. Who knows how many dogs live in harsh conditions every day. Thank goodness for the kind people who will foster dogs rescued from these bad places.
Woof! Woof!
Freeze Dog Poo For Easier Cleanup
Let it be known, and go down in history, that spray-on poop freezer originated in Maryland -- if not the idea, at least the marketing thereof.
You may remember the concept – minus the freezing part – from the Jack Black/Ben Stiller movie Envy, which featured a fictional product called “VaPOOrizer, a miracle spray that makes dog poop disappear.
Now, the folks at POOP-FREEZE, based in Rockville, have made it a reality, or at least come close, with a product that makes those bowel movements that lack, shall we say, structural integrity, easier to grasp.
“POOP-FREEZE™ is a specially formulated aerosol freeze spray that, upon contact, forms a frosty film on dog poop (or cat poop) to harden the surface for easy pick-up. POOP-FREEZE is a great companion to a pooper scooper for clean fast dog poop or cat poop disposal.” The company says it contains no CFC’s, can be used indoors and out, and is safe for humans and pets when used as directed.
"Just frost and toss," the ads say.
http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/features/mutts/blog/2008/02/freeces_freezing_your_dogs_poo.html
Wow, that's amazing. And for dogs who enjoy sampling on poo, they could use the frozen stuff as little poopscicles.
Woof! Woof!
You may remember the concept – minus the freezing part – from the Jack Black/Ben Stiller movie Envy, which featured a fictional product called “VaPOOrizer, a miracle spray that makes dog poop disappear.
Now, the folks at POOP-FREEZE, based in Rockville, have made it a reality, or at least come close, with a product that makes those bowel movements that lack, shall we say, structural integrity, easier to grasp.
“POOP-FREEZE™ is a specially formulated aerosol freeze spray that, upon contact, forms a frosty film on dog poop (or cat poop) to harden the surface for easy pick-up. POOP-FREEZE is a great companion to a pooper scooper for clean fast dog poop or cat poop disposal.” The company says it contains no CFC’s, can be used indoors and out, and is safe for humans and pets when used as directed.
"Just frost and toss," the ads say.
http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/features/mutts/blog/2008/02/freeces_freezing_your_dogs_poo.html
Wow, that's amazing. And for dogs who enjoy sampling on poo, they could use the frozen stuff as little poopscicles.
Woof! Woof!
Dog and Man Rescued from Tree
A 42-year-old man who became entangled in a tree while paragliding with his pet chihuahua east of Melbourne was rescued by emergency services after a five-hour search.
The paraglider set off on a routine flight with his chihuahua strapped to him from Donna Buang Summit Road, near Warburton, just before 5pm (AEDT) yesterday.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/paraglider-and-dog-rescued-from-tree/2008/03/01/1204227031292.html
Note to self - do not let owners take you paragliding.
Woof! Woof!
The paraglider set off on a routine flight with his chihuahua strapped to him from Donna Buang Summit Road, near Warburton, just before 5pm (AEDT) yesterday.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/paraglider-and-dog-rescued-from-tree/2008/03/01/1204227031292.html
Note to self - do not let owners take you paragliding.
Woof! Woof!
Robots Vs Dogs
Dogs may have a hard time wrapping their paws around this one: Robotic competition is nipping at their heels in the man's-best-friend department. A study by Saint Louis University found that a lovable pooch named Sparky and a robotic dog, AIBO, were about equally effective at relieving the loneliness of nursing home residents and fostering attachments.
The study, which appears in the March issue of the Journal of The American Medical Directors Association, builds on previous findings by the researchers that frequent dog visits decreased loneliness of nursing home residents.
Andrew Ng, who leads Stanford University's team in building a home-assistance robot and was not involved in the study, said the strength of the research is very encouraging.
If humans can feel an emotional bond with robots, even fairly simple ones, some day they could "not just be our assistants, but also our companions," he said.
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5ghza9p088meOKG8gaw6kFvtidy9AD8V47BA02
I'm sorry, I just don't buy this. Do you think a robot would save you from a burning building? Would a robot alert you to the possibility of having a seisure? I don't think so. When it comes to dogs versus robots, there's no competition.
Woof! Woof!
The study, which appears in the March issue of the Journal of The American Medical Directors Association, builds on previous findings by the researchers that frequent dog visits decreased loneliness of nursing home residents.
Andrew Ng, who leads Stanford University's team in building a home-assistance robot and was not involved in the study, said the strength of the research is very encouraging.
If humans can feel an emotional bond with robots, even fairly simple ones, some day they could "not just be our assistants, but also our companions," he said.
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5ghza9p088meOKG8gaw6kFvtidy9AD8V47BA02
I'm sorry, I just don't buy this. Do you think a robot would save you from a burning building? Would a robot alert you to the possibility of having a seisure? I don't think so. When it comes to dogs versus robots, there's no competition.
Woof! Woof!
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Dog Chapel Attracts Dog Lovers
Vermont folk artist Stephen Huneck, sits in his dog chapel in St. Johnsbury, Vt., surrounded by dogs on Dec. 20, 2007. Huneck, who started out whittling wooden sculptures of dogs and now specializes in dog-themed furniture, woodcut paintings and children's books, has carved out a unique niche with his whimsical reproductions of dogs.
http://www.abcnews.go.com/Travel/BusinessTravel/story?id=4360720&page=1
Sounds like a cool place.
Woof! Woof!
http://www.abcnews.go.com/Travel/BusinessTravel/story?id=4360720&page=1
Sounds like a cool place.
Woof! Woof!
Dog Adopts Baby Goat
A pup has become pop to an abandoned baby goat, according to London's Daily Mail.
"Billy," a boxer, has begun treating the 12-day-old kid named Lilly like his very own, sleeping beside her, washing her and generally watching over her at a wildlife center in Devon, England, the Mail reported.
The dog's owner, Elizabeth Tozer, said the little goat was left alone by her mother when she was only hours old. A very paternal Billy took on Lilly as his companion when Tozer began hand-rearing the kid.
"Lilly follows Billy around, which is really quite amusing to watch," Tozer told the Mail. "Billy sleeps with the goat and cleans her mouth after she feeds."
The kid was the tiniest in the litter of three. The dog-goat pair has attracted fans at Pennywell Farm wildlife center.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,333597,00.html
I've never met a goat, but maybe I should think about adopting one. We dogs pitch in when someone needs us, even if the someone is a goat.
Woof! Woof!
"Billy," a boxer, has begun treating the 12-day-old kid named Lilly like his very own, sleeping beside her, washing her and generally watching over her at a wildlife center in Devon, England, the Mail reported.
The dog's owner, Elizabeth Tozer, said the little goat was left alone by her mother when she was only hours old. A very paternal Billy took on Lilly as his companion when Tozer began hand-rearing the kid.
"Lilly follows Billy around, which is really quite amusing to watch," Tozer told the Mail. "Billy sleeps with the goat and cleans her mouth after she feeds."
The kid was the tiniest in the litter of three. The dog-goat pair has attracted fans at Pennywell Farm wildlife center.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,333597,00.html
I've never met a goat, but maybe I should think about adopting one. We dogs pitch in when someone needs us, even if the someone is a goat.
Woof! Woof!
Questions on Pet Ownership
Question: My family is thinking of getting a pet, but cost needs to be taken into consideration. What is less expensive to maintain -- a cat or a dog?
Answer: The American Pet Product Manufacturers Association estimates basic annual expenses for a dog are $1,425 and are $990 for a cat. These amounts include veterinarian visits, food, grooming supplies, treats and toys. Even if you're able to eliminate indulgences such as doggie day care or organic pet treats, plan ahead for the 10- to 15-year commitment.
http://starbulletin.com/2008/02/28/news/story11.html
I know that I'm worth every penny. And for your money you get a dog's lifetime of love and unwavering loyalty.
Woof! Woof!
Answer: The American Pet Product Manufacturers Association estimates basic annual expenses for a dog are $1,425 and are $990 for a cat. These amounts include veterinarian visits, food, grooming supplies, treats and toys. Even if you're able to eliminate indulgences such as doggie day care or organic pet treats, plan ahead for the 10- to 15-year commitment.
http://starbulletin.com/2008/02/28/news/story11.html
I know that I'm worth every penny. And for your money you get a dog's lifetime of love and unwavering loyalty.
Woof! Woof!
Natural Treats in Demand
WAUKESHA, Wis. --David Baldus boasts that the dog treats and chews he makes are "tested on Labs, not tested in labs."
And while he might toss a few to his dog, Jasper, or one of the others running around the warehouse, the testing doesn't stop there.
He might simply take a bite himself.
"Everything is food-grade," Baldus said. "I eat everything."
Baldus, 55, is the founder and president of Front Porch Pets Inc., in Waukesha, Wis., an all-natural dog treat supplier that specializes in dehydrated sweet potato chews.
http://www.sunherald.com/307/story/397470.html
I love sweet potatoes and those treats sound good. I don't think I'd like my owner to take a bite out of one of my treats though, they're just for me!
Woof! Woof!
And while he might toss a few to his dog, Jasper, or one of the others running around the warehouse, the testing doesn't stop there.
He might simply take a bite himself.
"Everything is food-grade," Baldus said. "I eat everything."
Baldus, 55, is the founder and president of Front Porch Pets Inc., in Waukesha, Wis., an all-natural dog treat supplier that specializes in dehydrated sweet potato chews.
http://www.sunherald.com/307/story/397470.html
I love sweet potatoes and those treats sound good. I don't think I'd like my owner to take a bite out of one of my treats though, they're just for me!
Woof! Woof!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
