Last week I heard from my friend Betsy who lives in Italy with her husband Roberto and Joe the German shepherd dog. Their beloved, albeit, high maintenance dog nearly died while on vacation in the Alps.

Joe and Besty in the Alps

Soon, Joe was diagnosed with Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, an incurable disease that strikes the portion of the pancreas that produces digestive enzymes. Without very expensive enzyme replacement therapy, and a lot of knowledgeable TLC, Joe would literally starve to death and die. The couple learned all they could about this disease, redesigned their budget, developed a home-made, real food, fresh diet, and started Joe on digestive enzymes. Some months later, Joe again began to thrive. He gained back weight. His boney spine, ribs and hips were now where they belonged, unseen under sleek muscles.

Betsy, this ever ambitious first-time dog guardian, started Joe in agility after he regained his health. I don’t know how she did it but this big boy zoomed through weave poles, flew through tunnels, soared over hurdles and brought home a trophy that’s even taller than him.

Last year, Joe went on a holiday trek to the Alps with Betsy and Roberto. In an email, Betsy related their mishaps – chased by cows, falling off mountain trails, getting lost, oh, and yes, forgetting Joe’s vital medicines. But, judging by the beautiful photos and all those smiles, they had an idyllic vacation with Joe, their new family member and side-kick. They had such a great time that they returned to the Alps again this year.

This year, Joe almost died.

Here is a portion of Betsy’s email detailing the horror:

“One day we all had ‘jelly legs’ from having climbed down a mountain about 3,500
feet (Joe had ridden up the ski-lift with us to the top first!!!!)… so we
decided to drive high up into the Alps right on the border with Austria to the
tip-top of a valley that is always really cool and where there is a soccer field
no one ever seems to be using and that we use each year to play a game of ball
tossing and chasing with Joe on days when we don’t feel like hiking…

Moments before Joe swallows the ball

Well, I tossed four big balls for about ten minutes, then got out the small ball
and he ran and caught it… then didn’t spit it out as he had been doing with
all the big ones… and I didn’t see that, and tossed one of the big balls.

He jumped up and caught it, but I guess the big ball knocked into the
smaller one in his mouth and it got ‘shot’ back down his throat, and got
stuck there!

Large ball - tennis ball - the BAD ball

It was absolutely horrible!!! We tried desperately to help him – even put him
upside down but it was lodged so tightly it was impossible to move.”

My hands began sweating as I continued to read her email.

“We were about 30 minutes from the nearest small town – and we had to drive down
a mountain road that was horribly steep… and where roadwork was being done -
and the road was blocked for several minutes!!! We telephoned the operator
for the phone number of the vet in the nearest town, but they didn’t have it -
they sent a text message with the phone numbers and addresses of four local vets
in the next town up the valley – another 15 minutes farther away – but only got
answering machines with messages I couldn’t understand, in GERMAN (the Alto
Adige region has German as its native language).

Joe was gasping and foaming at the mouth, scared out of his wits and just barely
getting any air at all…

When we FINALLY got to the town at the valley floor, we drove through the
pedestrian area off limits to traffic to the tourist info office we knew about
and I jumped out of the car and ran in… I had been told two days earlier that there was a famous vet in the village and thank heavens there was – the wonderful girl at the desk whipped out a map and highlighted the streets and gave me the number to call if we got lost – I begged her to call and say we were arriving – I was too scared that office might be
closed too – so she called and we rushed there…

Joe was barely able to stand when we rushed in to the vet’s… and in seconds
she had evaluated Joe, shaved his leg, disinfected it, stuck in an IV needle and
given him a first dose of anesthetic… within 30 seconds he was on the
operating table and with a second shot asleep… We were sure he would have to
have his throat sliced open to get it out – and the vet said she tried five times,
then steeled her nerves and tried one last time and miraculously got the damn
thing out, using whelping forceps.”

Betsy and Roberto were told that Joe should survive.

“We did a mighty lot of hand-wringing and beating ourselves up during the four hour
wait while Joe was kept under observation – we picked him up in late afternoon. The next day we drove up into the mountains to a cool shady park and let Joe sleep under a tree while we sat and read books and stroked him.

Joe and Betsy recovering

We are now SOOOO glad to be back home – all three of us together safe and sound
- the thought of Joe dying from such a stupid accident still gives me the shivers now.

I would never have thought a tennis ball could get stuck in his throat like
that…what an idiot!!!!”

What a chilling narrative. Joe is doing fine but Betsy is still shook up. She said she never thought a tennis ball could get stuck in a dog’s throat. Well, why would that thought have occurred to Betsy? Just about every store I walk into, that has a pet supply section, has tennis balls for sale. How could they sell them if they weren’t safe? Wouldn’t there be a warning label? No, there doesn’t have to be anything. The pet industry is wildly unregulated. Remember the Menu Foods recall two years ago? Remember the Greenies lawsuits? How about the EPA ongoing investigation of spot-on flea and tick products that may be killing our pets? As your dog’s guardian you must learn what is safe and what is not. Don’t trust the manufacturers.

1) Size DOES count – I consider the basic Kong to be one of the best interactive toys around. But, the Kong Company makes various sizes and hardnesses – some are fine for Yorkies but deadly to Mastiffs.
2) Materials – No toy – no matter what the manufacturer claims – is indestructible. My dogs love plushy toys with squeakers. In just a matter of minutes they perform squeakerectomys. They then attempt to dig them out of the plushy and try to eat them. Know your dog – know your toy. Steer clear of vinyl and plastic. There are a slew of cheap, soft, latex balls and toys on the market. In some circles they are called ‘crack balls’ as dogs just can’t get enough of these squeaky, squishy toys. Because they are so malleable and get very slippery from dog saliva, they can be easily ingested. Is your dog’s toy decorated with lead paint – it’s done with baby toys, why not dog toys?
3) Tennis balls – I know, most dogs go gaga over tennis balls. There are a few problems with them though. There is the ‘size counts’ issue. Most dogs can swallow whole a hunk of meat the size of a tennis ball. Tooth wear is another issue. A dog slimed tennis ball will gather sand and dirt on the fabric which then acts like sand paper wearing down dog teeth. Tennis balls are not very tough. They are made to play the game of tennis and not intended for powerful dog jaws. Ingesting foreign substances, like chunks of tennis balls, can be fatal. Another issue is the poison potential. Who made the tennis ball? What is that powder inside? Some tennis balls are touted to be pet safe. Don’t believe it.
4) Toy Checks – Every now and then, make it a practice to inspect dog toys for wear and damage. Don’t take a chance, toss them away if they start looking worn out.
5) Balls – Most dogs just love balls. And dog parents just love to play ball with their dogs. Basketballs can be fun. They do have the potential to wear down teeth though. Depending upon the brand name, my dog can ‘fang’ and deflate one pretty quickly. She likes them like that because they are fun to ‘shake and kill.’ Be sure that they do not get so damaged that the dog can eat chunks of them. Soccer balls (available in all several sizes) – ditto, read above. I don’t play ball/fetch with any type of hard balls like baseballs, softballs (that aren’t really soft) rugby balls, or handballs. They can crack teeth.
6) Rope Toys – Real ambitious chewers can rip these to shreds and ingest strings which can lead to trouble in the intestinal tract. I like to use them as tugs but I don’t leave them around as a chew toy.

Betsy, Roberto and Joe were so fortunate. I highly recommend that everyone learn Dog CPR and the Dog Heimlich maneuver. I have taken several K9 First Aid classes, presented by vets, and no on-line course can take there place. Ask your vet to form a class or direct you to area vets who provide them. Check with your local Red Cross.

Before you leave for vacation with your K9 pal, do an internet search of local vet clinics, particularly emergency clinics – print out all needed contact information including detailed driving directions and hours of operation.

Semper Fido,
Marilyn

The Environmental Protection Agency has compiled and released a new list of flea and tick products that are under investigation due to a sharp increase last year in adverse reactions. The following information is from the EPA website.
List of Registered Products
EPA has provided a listing of EPA-registered spot-on flea and tick products at www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/flea-tick-control.html. Since the chart previously located on this page reflected only a portion of the numerous pet spot-on products available, EPA felt that pet owners and consumers might be led to believe that only those products listed were the focus of concern. In fact, EPA is intensifying its evaluation of all spot-on products and is providing a more comprehensive list of these products.
EPA is not initiating a product recall of these products nor is the Agency suggesting that the products not be used. EPA recognizes the importance of the products in effective flea and tick control. EPA’s objective at this stage is simply to advise consumers and pet owners to exercise caution when using the products and to monitor pet behavior following their use, as some animals have experienced adverse reactions following treatment.

April 16, 2009 \u2013 EPA Increases scrutiny of \u2018spot on\u2019 type flea and tick insecticides \u2013 a list of product brand names printed on the EPA website

Within the next few days, the \u2018LIST\u201d of product brands disappears! The EPA \u2013 on their website \u2013 promises to reprint that list when all data has been compiled. A Nose for News \u2013 an exclusive blog production of the CanineKingdom.com \u2013 has published the \u2018LIST\u2019 for those interested in products that have caused up to 44,000 adverse reactions, including 1,300 major or fatal reactions. Please visit A Nose for News blog \u2013 April 28.

EPA announces that officials of the EPA and representatives of flea and tick product manufacturers will meet throughout the week of May 4, 2009. I asked if they could let me know about the proceedings and received this answer.

“Thank you for your inquiry. EPA expects to meet with manufacturers of spot-on flea and tick products the week of May 4, 2009. This is not a public meeting; however, it is standard practice to prepare a summary of the meeting and place it and meeting materials in the docket for the public to view. This meeting is to discuss the registrants’ product licenses and what measures might be necessary to better protect pets. EPA is committed to keeping the public informed as this evaluation proceeds. The FOIA Web site is available at http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/foia/”

So, as a journalist, I am all too familiar with what this means. To find out what happened at these meetings I must file an inquiry via the Freedom of Information Act. I will, but in some cases it can take years to gather needed information. Dog parents do not have years \u2013 flea and tick season is upon us now!

I truly doubt that the EPA will re-print that \u2018LIST\u2019. I do think that a settlement was met with the manufacturers who were no doubt asked to increase the label precautions, instructions for use, maybe use larger print, and of course the \u2026 \u2018do consult with your veterinarian\u2019 caveat.

I did find this \u2018warning\u2019 on the EPA website recently:

Safety tips for pet owners:
Consult your veterinarian: Before use on weak, aged, medicated, sick, pregnant, or nursing pets, or on pets that have previously shown signs of sensitivity to pesticide products; and If your pet experiences an adverse effect.
If you use a spot-on product or any other pesticide on your pet, carefully read and follow the product label.
Use flea and tick control products only on the animal specified by the product label \u2500 for example, dog products for dogs only and cat products for cats only.
Follow any label prohibitions against use on weak, aged, medicated, sick, pregnant, or nursing pets, or on pets that have previously shown sensitivity to pesticide products.
Apply only the amount indicated for the size of the animal being treated.
Do not apply to kittens or puppies unless the product label specifically allows this treatment. Pay attention to the age restrictions for puppies and kittens on the label.
Monitor your pet for side effects or signs of sensitivity after applying the product, particularly when using the product on your pet for the first time. Do not apply spot-ons to pets known to be sensitive to pesticide products.
If your pet experiences an adverse reaction, immediately bathe the pet with mild soap and rinse with large amounts of water.
Keep the package with the product container (such as individual applicator tubes). Also keep the package after treatment in case adverse effects occur. You will want to have the instructions at hand, as well as contact information for the manufacturer.

Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes are a serious health concern. Fleas can cause horrid allergic reactions and can be difficult to control if they infest your home and yard. Ticks may carry many different pathogens which can be fatal to humans and pets alike. Mosquitoes can spread heartworm to your pets and are know to be a vector for diseases like West Nile and malaria.

This all begs the question, how do I protect my pets without harming them?

There are numerous \u2018recipes\u2019 for so-called \u2018natural\u2019 insect repellants. But just because a preparation is dubbed \u2018natural,\u2019 does not necessarily mean that it is safe. Nightshade is a \u2018natural\u2019 plant but it can be deadly. Ingested garlic preparations are often touted to be a \u2018natural\u2019 flea and tick repellant. It is doubtful that a casual sprinkle of garlic powder added once in a while to a dog\u2019s food would cause harm, but large amounts can cause a specific form of anemia. Essential oils are gaining in popularity as alternative treatments, however, they are unregulated and some may be toxic, particularly to felines. You may not use a \u2018recipe\u2019 on your cat but be aware that your cat may passively be \u2018treated\u2019 if your cat decides to lie on your recently treated dog\u2019s bed. There could be deadly consequences of inadvertent \u2018treatment.\u2019

Lemon Lotion \u2013 A Natural Alternative

Here is a paraphrased version of Juliette De Bairacli Levy’s lemon lotion for fleas, lice and ticks, from her 1955 book – The Complete Herbal Handbook for the Dog & Cat.

1) Pop lemon (or lime, key lime, or grapefruit) halves into a container \u2014 glass or ceramic preferably. For a gallon jar, you will need at least 24 lemon halves and enough water to fill the container. It’s not necessary to use whole `new’ lemons: you can save used lemon skins.

2) Cover the jar with a porous paper \u2013 I use a coffee filter. Place the jar with lemons and water in the sun or, alternatively, place the lemons in the container, then pour hot water over them. This is similar to \u2018sun tea\u2019 preparation.

3) Wait\u2026 until the lemons turn black and moldy. At that point, squeeze the moldy lemons out into the container and discard. Strain the Lemon Lotion into a spray bottle. Place fresh lemons into the jar with the remaining liquid, cover with water to replenish your supply of Lemon Lotion. Repeat the waiting period.

5) For a stronger lotion, you can add the juice from two fresh lemons per quart of liquid.

6) Spray your dog each morning. I use a cotton work glove \u2013 allocated for this purpose only and stored in a baggy \u2013 to reach the underbelly, and to rub into facial areas and ears. Don\u2019t forget to treat the toes and under the tail.

The author also advises rubbing a few drops of spirit of eucalyptus into the coats of dogs that spend more time outdoors, on the top of the head, under the brisket and above the paws and on the lower legs. This is NOT advisable for homes with cats.

No repellant is 100% effective, including harsh insecticides like DEET. Lemon Lotion advocates have reported the occasional presence of ticks on their dogs \u2013 but no more than when they used the topical chemical \u2018spot-on\u2019 products.

Semper Fido,

Marilyn

Winter, in the North Country, is over. Finally. Crocuses have popped and daffodils laugh in the breeze. But things are not entirely rosy as the dreaded tick also awakens and the females seek blood meals to feed their developing young. They roost on branches and leap on their prey – our dogs and cats and yes, even us. Creepy as they are, I can handle bug bites. Why else would I live in the land of the notorious blackfly? I do get some nasty reactions from their bites, but fortunately they do not transmit disease. Ticks do – Lyme, ehrlichia canis, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever to name some of the more common, albeit most dangerous ones.

Both of my dogs have had tick diseases and Tsunami suffers from heart arrhythmia likely due to, according to her cardiologist, Lyme disease. She is currently in remission from chronic anaplasmosis after a scary two year battle.

As much as I am loathe to use pesticides of any sort, I do use spot-on flea and tick preparations every month when ticks are active. As an additional precaution, if I am venturing off for a hike in the woods with my girls, I spray them with a made-for-dogs insecticide. The ticks become ‘quiet’ in the fall and when temperatures drop significantly I discontinue the use of these products.

I had planned on starting their spot-on flea and tick preparation May 1st.

But then, last week, April 17, 2009, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it had some concerns about topical pet flea and tick preparations. (Because flea and tick products are usually applied on the outside of the body, rather than ingested or injected, the EPA has jurisdiction over their safety.) On their website the following appeared:

Due to a recent sharp increase in the number of incidents being reported from the use of spot-on pesticide products for flea and tick control for pets, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is intensifying its evaluation of whether further restrictions on the use of these products are necessary to better protect pets.  

Incidents with flea and tick products can involve the use of spot-on treatments, sprays, collars and shampoos. However, the majority of the potential incidents reported to EPA are related to flea and tick treatments with EPA-registered spot-on products. Spot-on products are generally sold in tubes or vials and are applied to one or more localized areas on the body of the pet, such as in between the shoulders or in a stripe along the back.  

EPA-registered spot-on, topically applied flea and tick products have an EPA Registration Number on the label (look for EPA Reg. No. XXX-XX).

Adverse reactions reported from the spot-on products range from mild effects such as skin irritation to more serious effects such as seizures and in some cases death. Over 44,000 potential incidents associated with registered spot-on products were reported to EPA in 2008. Pesticide registrants are required by law to submit information to EPA on adverse effects resulting from the use of any registered pesticide. The seven products in the table below represent about 80% of that total.

In reviewing the list of seven products, please note the following:

• This information is subject to revision as new information becomes available;
• This information does not account for the market share of these products;
• This information does not reflect the severity of incidents;
• This information does not reflect potential misuse of the products; and
• If incidents are not reported by pet owners or registrants, this may affect the potential accuracy of this list.

In addition, a cause and effect relationship between these products and any individual adverse reaction or incident has not been confirmed. EPA is carefully evaluating all available data, including incident data, to help identify and if necessary, take prompt regulatory action to address risks. By collecting, compiling, and reviewing the incident data, EPA is able to make better decisions to reduce risks and target other regulatory activities.

However, today, the “table below” that lists those products has disappeared from the EPA website and the following appeared:

EPA has temporarily removed the list of flea and tick products previously posted on this page. The Agency is carefully reviewing the completeness of the list. Complete information will be reposted on this page as soon as this review is completed.

Could manufacturers have strong-armed the EPA to remove the list? Is the EPA allowing the companies time to ‘get their ducks in a row?’ Could this be another Menu Foods scandal? Will the EPA fumble the ball as the FDA did with pet food just two years ago?

Since it was listed on the EPA website and then removed, we here at the Canine Kingdom believe it is in our pet parent’s best interests to reveal the list. Here is the list that appeared last week on the EPA website. And, yes, the brand that I use for my dogs IS listed. What is a dog parent to do? Call the EPA and register your concerns. Call the manufacturer. When will the list of products be again listed on the EPA website? Should dog parents use these products? We must know why there were was a ‘sharp increase’ in adverse reaactions. Have formulas been re-formulated? The Canine Kingdom would like to hear from you. Have any of your pets reacted poorly to any of these products? Here is your contact information from the EPA website:

If you have questions or need additional information on this, please contact John Hebert in the Office of Pesticide Programs at hebert.john@epa.gov or 703-308-6249.

According to the EPA the following pet flea treatment products represent about 80% of the reported adverse reactions.

Promeris Spot On for Dogs

Promeris for Dogs

Frontline Plus for Dogs

Frontline Plus for Cats

RF2004(CCSO)

Zodiac Spot On Flea & Tick Control for Cats 5 lbs and over

Zodiac Spot On Flea & Tick Control for Cats & Kittens Under 5 lbs

Farnam Companies Inc. Bio Spot, Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Cats & Kittens Under 5lbs

Farnam Companies Inc. Adams Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Cats 5lbs & Over

Farnam Companies Inc. Bio Spot, Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Cats 5lbs & Over

The Hartz Mountain Group Hartz Ultraguard Plus Drops for Cats

The Hartz Mountain Group Hartz Incontrol Flea & Tick Drops for Cats

The Hartz Mountain Group Hartz Ultraguard Pro Flea & Tick Drops for Cats

The Hartz Mountain Group Hartz Incontrol Advanced Flea & Tick Control for Cats 5lbs & Over

The Hartz Mountain Group Hartz Incontrol Advanced Flea & Tick Control for Cats

RF9908 Spot On

Zodiac Groomers’ Spot On Pack

Zodiac Spot On Flea & Tick Control for Small Dogs 16–30 lbs

Zodiac Spot On Flea & Tick Control for Medium Dogs 31-60 lbs

Zodiac Spot On Flea & Tick Control for Large Dogs Over 60 lbs

Zodiac Spot On Flea & Tick Control for Puppies, Toys & Miniatures under 15 lbs

Farnam Companies Inc. Bio Spot Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Dogs

Farnam Companies Inc. Companies Inc. Bio Spot Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Dogs (16 to 30 lbs)

Farnam Companies Inc. Companies Inc. Bio Spot Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Dogs (31 to 60 lbs)

Farnam Companies Inc. Companies Inc. Bio Spot Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Dogs (over 60 lbs)

Farnam Companies Inc. Adams Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Small Dogs 16-30 lbs.

Farnam Companies Inc. Adams Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Medium Dogs 31-60 lbs.

Farnam Companies Inc. Adams Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Large Dogs Over 60 lbs.

Farnam Companies Inc. Adams Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Puppies, Toys, & Miniatures Under 15 lbs

Farnam Companies Inc. Bio Spot Spot on Flea & Tick Control for Puppies Under 15 lbs

Sergeant’s Cyphenothrin Squeeze-on for Dogs

Sergeant’s Silver Flea and Tick Squeeze-on for Dogs

Sentry XFC Flea and Tick Squeeze-on for Dogs

Sentry XFC Squeeze-on for Dogs

Sergeant’s Silver Squeeze-on for Dogs

Sergeant’s Cyphenothrin + IGR Squeeze-on for Dogs.

Sergeant’s Gold Squeeze-on for Dogs

Sergeant’s Gold Flea and Tick Squeeze-on for Dogs

Sentrypro XFC Flea and Tick Squeeze-on for Dogs

Sentrypro XFC Squeeze-on for Dogs

Sentrypro XFC Flea and Tick Squeeze-on for Dogs Extreme Flea Control

Tradewinds Triforce Canine Squeeze-On

Tradewinds Triforce Canine Squeeze-On for Dogs 9 lbs to 20 lbs.

Tradewinds Triforce Canine Squeeze-On for Dogs 21 lbs to 39 lbs.

Tradewinds Triforce Canine Squeeze-On for Dogs 40 lbs to 60 lbs

Tradewinds Triforce Canine Squeeze-On for Dogs 60 lbs. or larger

 Semper Fido,

Marilyn

It was recently reported that 86,000 pet-owner-related injuries were reported, based upon statistics gathered from 2001 to 2006. That sounds like a lot of folks falling over their dogs and cats, food bowls and toys, but, in reality, despite media coverage of these statistics, pet related injuries are relatively rare and account for about 1% of home accidents. You are really more likely to fall down the stairs or out of your bed than tripping over Fluffy.

I was concerned about the amount of press this news story received, considering the rarity of these kinds of accidents. I fear that seniors may be advised to give up their pets or reconsider getting a pet for fear of falls. It has been noted in so many studies that living with pets has health benefits – a decrease in blood pressure, an increase in beneficial exercise, an aid to depression, loneliness and more.

Many years ago, my father suffered a very serious heart attack. At the same time the family dog – Manfred – died after 16 wonderful years. My Dad said he would never get another dog – the pain of loss was too much for him. Father’s Day was approaching and I didn’t know what to do for Dad. He seemed sad and depressed. I learned of a young Irish setter who was to be turned into the pound because she was gun shy. I arranged to pick her up and promptly drove her over to Dad’s to introduce the two. My father was adamant – no more dogs. Erin, the setter, was as equally miffed about my arrangement and nipped Dad’s hand as he attempted to pet her. I told Dad I had an important appointment to keep and he would have to keep Erin until I got back – in about a week. He was furious, Erin was sullen. I quickly left – giving them no choice.

As promised, one week later I returned from my fictitious trip. Erin and my Dad were fast friends – inseparable. Dad and Erin went for long walks. She slept by his side. She adored him and Dad doted on her. She changed his life and probably increased his lifespan. I don’t think he ever tripped over her.

There are some things you can do to decrease tripping on your dogs as well as their toys and bowls. Dogs quickly develop habits. Eventually, a dog will prefer favorite sleeping areas throughout your home. Depending upon climate conditions, dogs will seek out warmth or coolness. Sometimes these sleeping areas are in direct conflict with home traffic conditions – like in the middle of a busy hallway or a doorway. I have always found it easier to allow dogs to choose their preferred napping nooks and just be vigilant about stepping on them. We ourselves have favorite sitting locations – why shouldn’t dogs?

Exercise caution when stepping over a sleeping dog. Like us, dogs settle into very deep sleeping patterns. You’ve seen them dreaming, seemingly chasing squirrels, moving their paws and muttering little sounds. If you suddenly step over a dog she may jump out of a deep sleep – literally – and knock you over. Give sleeping dogs a little warning and try not to startle them as they sleep.

I like to provide sleeping areas for my dogs. Carefully chosen dog beds can convince a dog to opt for that cozy lounge instead of the busy hallway. Not all dogs are created the same – nor are dog beds. My girls prefer a deep, soft, cushiony bed with a bolster that makes them feel as if they are in dens. Many dogs like elevated beds – no surprise as most dogs adore human couches and chairs. I have my preferences too. Since I have German ‘Shedders,’ I like materials that are easy to de-fur and keep clean. The Canine Kingdom has a large selection of quality dog beds.

In future blogs I will go into details about how to choose an appropriate dog bed – for puppies, adults, seniors, dogs with health issues, big dogs, small dogs and of course dog parents.

People also trip over dog toys. Consider a toy box. There are many dogs – the vigorous chewers – who really must be supervised with toys. Leaving dog toys around the house can be dangerous. Ingestion of toys accounts for ever so many emergency vet visits, surgeries and even death. Toy boxes can also become a marvelous device to have some fun with your dog. All of my dogs’ toys have a name. The girls have been taught the names and during the cold and rains – when bored dogs become restless – we play toy hiding games. I tell them the name of the toy and they zoom off in search.

With a little practice you can teach your dog “put away your toys.’ They will have fun, expend some restless energy and save you some housework too.

Semper Fido,

Marilyn

A new study, published by the University of Pennsylvania, revealed its findings concerning the use of ‘dominance’ type training to correct aggression in dogs. Not really astonishing news to enlightened, reward-based trainers. But, it may surprise fans of the self proclaimed ‘Dog Whisperer’ Cesar Millan, and others, who espouse dominance-based, pack leader, alpha rank techniques to control, diminish or eliminate dog aggression.

UPenn researchers determined that the number one reason dog parents take their dogs to a trainer/behaviorist is to manage aggressive behavior. Meghan E. Herron, lead author of the study, said. “Our study demonstrated that many confrontational training methods, whether staring down dogs, striking them or intimidating them with physical manipulation does little to correct improper behavior and can elicit aggressive responses.” The team from the School of Veterinary Medicine at Penn suggests that primary-care veterinarians advise owners of the risks associated with such training methods and provide guidance and resources for safe management of behavior problems.

The study, published in the current issue of Applied Animal Behavior Science, also showed that using non-aversive or neutral training methods such as additional exercise or rewards elicited very few aggressive responses.

These finding are a no-brainer to positive based trainers. But, why the recent popularity of aversion training? I can only guess that it has to do with that elusive charismatic star quality, coupled with brilliant public relation specialists and fierce promotion, because it has nothing to do with known learning theories.

Even if you know nothing about operant conditioning and classical conditioning most people can get their arms wrapped around an example of dog aggression and what happens in the dog’s head when punishment is used to ‘correct’ aggressive dogs.

Max, a 16-month old Doberman mix, is sound asleep on your brand new, custom made, living room couch. You yell at Max, “Get off the couch!” Max has not had any obedience training and has no idea what those words mean. He does know, however, that you are not pleased but he does not know why. You then grab hold of Max’s collar and as you pull him down off the couch he growls and attempts to bite your wrist. Max has turned aggressive you think. You have been told that aggressive dogs must learn who the boss is – who the Alpha is – who the Pack Leader is – then all will be well.

Next time you will be prepared. Armed and well studied with ‘dominance’ theory techniques and the accompanying equipment, Max is fitted up with a steel choke collar and a lead is attached. Unknowingly, Max curls up onto that divine couch for a mid afternoon nap. Suddenly, he is awakened from his blissful, bunny-chasing dreams by sharp pain around his throat and the ensuing frightening alpha roll to the floor. Max is scared and confused. Next time he may be better prepared for this crazy behavior of his much beloved but loony dog parent. He will protect himself. According to the UPenn study – Max will be more inclined to bite because of such training techniques and wouldn’t you be?

This dog parent is in danger of serious harm and Max is in peril as well. If he bites someone he will probably be one more euthanasia statistic. Fans of aversive training techniques, which can also include yanking, smacking, kicking, beating, hanging, helicoptering, treadmilling and electric shocking, can point to their successes. And, there will be some. Some dogs will submit. But think about that most beautiful, sacred bond, between a dog and its human partner, that has been broken. The dog relents because of fear and force rather than learning and understanding through clear communication. That’s not the kind of relationship that I want with my dogs.

While visiting here at the Canine Kingdom, why not stop into some of the informational sections CEO and Founder Mary Beth Close provides? At the Canine Kingdom’s Universal Protocol Center you will find valuable information pertaining to how dogs learn, dog myths, why training efforts fail and more.

Annie Celebrating St. Patrick's Day - Yes my dogs are allowed on the furniture

I have also included some Canine Kingdom product links that will help you and your dog develop the best relationship possible. Still having problems with your pup and feel that nothing has worked? Try the Canine Kingdom’s Dog Coaching services. Remember Max? His couch slumbering behavior can be solved very easily without resorting to physical or verbal or posturing dominance techniques. Work those problems out using proven learning theory techniques that will also enhance the canine/human relationship.

For a very limited time the Canine Kingdom is offering 10 minutes of Dog Parent Coaching for free. Many dog behavior problems can be solve easily and humanely. Take advantage of this free offer and enhance your relationship with your dog. Here are some products that can help with dog problems.

Semper Fido,

Marilyn, Tsunami & Annie

http://www.caninekingdom.com

An animal control officer picked up a stray dog in Tennessee last month. The German shepherd dog was scanned for a micro chip and information was indeed found which led to re-uniting the dog with his owners.

Astro’s owners were shocked to hear the news – their dog went missing nine years ago when the family lived in Florida. During those years the family moved three times eventually settling in Louisville, Kentucky.

Dennis Geary reunited with Astro

Without missing a beat, when Astro was re-introduced to his original people, he covered them with big, fat, wet slurps.

Any animal communicators out there willing to have a conversation with Astro? I sure would like to know what he’s been up to while on the lam for nine years.

Not all stories have such happy endings. While microchip technology has reunited many dog parents with their lost dogs, implanting – like any invasive medical procedure – is not without its risks.

Recently, a couple in California, required by law to have their dog implanted with a microchip in order to take him camping, watched their Chihuahua bleed to death from the procedure.

“I wasn’t in favor of getting Charlie chipped, but it was the law,” said Lori Ginsberg, the Chihuahua’s owner, citing an ordinance that requires all dogs, over the age of four months, in unincorporated Los Angeles County, be microchipped. Dog owners who refuse to comply face a $250 fine for the first offense and up to six months in jail and $1,000 fine for continued non-compliance.”

To read entire story – click here – Dog Product News

Are microchips the solution to lost dogs? Will a microchip assure dog parents they will be reunited with their lost dogs based upon the results of the shelter scanner? Maybe – maybe not.

Currently, there are six different manufacturers of microchips – little rice grain-sized injectable information storage bins. They are not all created equal. Not all of them operate on the same frequencies. At this time microchips operate on 125 kHz, 128 kHz, or 134.2 kHz.

Currently, there are four different manufacturers of scanners and none are infallible. In a recent study, reported in last month’s Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the HomeAgain universal scanner scored the highest in its ability to detect and read all types of microchips.

Microchips have been responsible for reuniting many lost dogs with their families but they are not without their flaws. Your shelter may have a scanner which is not compatible with your dog’s microchip. There are techniques to properly scan a dog – the scanner is only as good as the person operating the equipment. Microchips move. They could migrate from the initial insert area – around the shoulders – to a leg or chest area. It is harder to ‘find’ a microchip on large or overweight dogs.

Microchips are a passive means of finding a lost dog, meaning you are relying upon someone else to do the job of finding your dog and tracking you down.

Mary Beth Close, our very own CEO of the Canine Kingdom, was in Miami last week trying to integrate some sunshine with her never ending passion of bettering the lives of dogs. Mary Beth has always had an uncanny ability to be right plop in the midst of a dog-in-peril situation. I do not believe in coincidence – it happens to her all the time.

Walking along Ocean Boulevard on a fine, sunny, hot afternoon, Mary Beth noticed a very frenetic black Lab attempting to navigate the heavy traffic. Not missing a beat, Mary Beth, in her best ‘doggie friendly voice’ convinced the dog to turn away from a very fast moving car and come to her for solace and help. With the assistance of her husband Bill, they fashioned a makeshift lead to keep the pup safe, as the maitre de of a fashionably chic restaurant offered up cool iced water, served in a silver champagne bucket to the hot, exhausted, confused Labrador.

The dog was wearing a collar, but sadly there was no ID on it. What to do? A small crowd gathered. Some wondered if the dog was abandoned. Shelters have been overflowing with the recession some mused. Bill put in a call to the Miami dog shelter.

Mary Beth with lost Miami Labrador

Did I mention Mary Beth has this thing with dogs? Well she does. She notices the Labrador’s distress as Bill reaches the shelter personnel. Not something this dog is very happy about Mary Beth thinks. Though they were several blocks from the beach, and dogs are not allowed there, Mary Beth tells Bill she has a ‘feeling’ and heads to the beach where she asks everyone she sees if they have heard of a lost black dog. A worried woman runs to Mary Beth. Yes, she lost her Lab. She changed his collar a few days ago and it did not have any ID on it. He ‘always’ stayed close to her. Never took off – ever.

Don’t count on Mary Beth to be there if your dog goes missing. Take proactive steps now. Protect your dog. Microchip, keep up-to-date ID tags on your dog, stamp tattoo puppies, keep a current file of your dog – photos, distinguishing markings, etc., invest in a GPS location system, put noticeable signs on gates and doors “Please Shut Door/Gate”, install spring close latch systems on gates, teach your dog the “wait” command to prevent gate/door bolting, for the fence jumpers, install a Coyote Roller system.

For more information on products designed to keep you and your dog together forever, please

click on the links below.

RoamEO GPS

Coyote Roller

Webmaster Harness

Gentle Leader Harness

Classic Long Lead

Gentle Leader Head Halter

Canine Kingdom Home Alone E-Book

Semper Fido,

Marilyn, Tsunami & Annie

Do you have a Lost Dog Tale to tell? Any tips on lost dogs? We’d like to hear from you

http://www.caninekingdom.com

Lucas at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

Vick booking photo

Michael Vick, the disgraced Atlanta Falcon’s star quarterback, walked out of prison last week, serving some 17 months after having been convicted of gambling charges, and most notably, operating a major dog fighting operation hidden behind the walls of his exclusive Virginia estate.

Before his sentencing, as part of his plea agreement, Vick admitted to taking part in the murders of several fighting dogs that just weren’t ‘up to snuff.’ Vick’s Bad Newz Kennel had a policy of eliminating these ‘inferior’ dogs by hanging, electrocution or drowning. Those talented hands that brilliantly passed the pigskin on the gridiron, brutally killed his own dogs with equal determination and dexterity.

It was headline news for months in 2007. Now, it’s headline news again – at least in dog circles – and it shouldn’t be. As far as I’m concerned, he did his time, still has more coming – monitored work release and then probation, as with any other criminal. He owes more money than he has, his future with the Falcons is kaput – with the NFL it’s uncertain, and if he has a conscience, he has an awful lot to mull over. I really never wanted to think of this man again – but thanks to Wayne Pacelle, the president of the Human Society of the United States (HSUS), I must.

Pacelle had visited Vick at Fort Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary a few times. The self proclaimed savior of the Vick pit bulls is considering an alliance with Vick and the HSUS. Pacelle envisions a fund raising inner city country-wide tour with the so-called rehabilitated Michael Vick, center stage, speaking to impoverished youth about all that is bad about dog fighting. He returned with these thought that are posted on the HSUS web site.

“I knew it would be controversial, but I decided it was the right thing to

Wayne Pacelle

 engage with Michael and give him a chance to participate in our anti-dogfighting efforts. We at the HSUS are about change, even the hard cases.”

Pacelle appears to be so forgiving, so willing to work with this man – Vick was a “hard case” but he deserves another chance. Let’s cut back to the year 2007 when Vick was first arrested and his stable of over 50 fighting dogs were seized. Virginia law enforcement officials parceled out the dogs to local shelters where they could be cared for until the courts decided upon their fate. Pacelle immediately hopped onto the media circus train and demanded that Vick have the book thrown at him. He also implored all animal lovers to open up their checkbooks and send the HSUS lots of money so that the Vick dogs would be properly cared for. Soon, the New York Times reported that HSUS was not, in fact, caring for the dogs. HSUS president Wayne Pacelle told the Times that HSUS is recommending that government officials “put down” (kill) the dogs rather than adopt them out to suitable homes. I suppose Pacelle and the HSUS did not think that those dogs were true “hard cases.”

Many people who donate to the Humane Society of the United States don’t realize – probably due to its slick ad campaigns – that it is not affiliated with any humane societies or shelters. In fact, according to an Atlanta WSBTV investigative report, less than 4 percent of its budget – is passed over to legitimate pet shelters in the form of grants. In 2007, the year of the Vick case, HSUS hauled in about $120 million through its appeals to the public. About $112 million of that money wound up in the hands of lobbyists, politicians, activist groups, ad and public relations agencies, and top ranking HSUS employees in the form of salaries, benefits and expenses. Pacelle has shifted over the group’s major emphasis from pets to pro-vegan, anti-meat, anti-dairy, breeder legislation and of course keeping up a high visibility profile whenever a major puppy mill is raided. What happens to all of those seized dogs is not the problem or concern of the HSUS. While the HSUS receives the glory of the bust through the media, the burden of care of the puppy mill victims is laid at the steps of local animal shelters, that are often already struggling to care for more animals than they can afford.

Does this constitute fraud? I really don’t know, I’m not a lawyer or a judge. But I can smell a rat. Seems like the State of Louisiana did too. In post Katrina days, officials wanted to know what happened to the $34 million that Pacelle raised to reunite all those poor lost pets with their displaced families. An investigation was launched and then suspended after Pacelle opened his HSUS wallet and started doling out some funds to the still struggling state of Louisiana.

Back to the Vick prison interviews as told by Pacelle in his blog and at the HSUS website.

“Sitting with Michael at Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary, I saw a man who, if he had the resolve, could do powerful and persuasive outreach to at-risk youth and steer them away from dogfighting. He told me he saw dogfighting when we he was a boy, and from there, he came to accept the activity and to get involved. Nobody was there to step in and pull him out of that morass, and he obviously didn’t have the strength to get away from it himself.”

Gosh, this sounds like the makings of a movie script – a tale of turmoil, success, a horrid downspin and redemption. Now I don’t know who is pulling whose tail here but this isn’t exactly how Vick’s life unfolded.

Vick did grow up in the projects of Newport News, Virginia. But he was one of the more fortunate kids. He seemed to blossom in a mud puddle. His Dad, who worked long hours at the Naval Base, found time to play with his kids and the game was football.

In an article published in September 2000, while his son Michael was at Virginia Tech, Michael Boddie, Vick’s dad, told the university’s Collegiate Times: “Ever since he learned to throw a football, he’s always liked throwing a ball…It’s just in his blood.” He added that his son had never gotten into trouble or … involved with drugs, adding: “I like the way he has developed, not only as a player but as a person.”

Vick himself has said that sports saved him from the undesirable elements of the project. He told Sporting News magazine in an interview published April 9, 2001: “Sports kept me off the streets…. It kept me from getting into what was going on, the bad stuff. Lots of guys I knew have had bad problems.”

Actually, there were no reports of dog fighting activities in those projects during Vick’s formative years. It appears that Vick’s dog fighting activities began after he joined the NFL in 2001. He should have been old enough at that point to have known right from wrong. He overcame those projects as a kid and chose to revisit them as a successful adult.

Despite incredible talent on the field, and his own personal mettle, which catapulted him to football star status, in a few short years, his private world spiraled downward. His wealth and renown grew as the number of bad choices he made off-field became glaringly apparent to friends, team mates, coaches and endorsement companies.

So, who’s kidding whom here? Don’t really know.

Here’s what I can surmise though. Vick has a public relations problem to tackle. What he wants more than anything else now is to receive the blessings and vindication of the NFL. He wants to get back in the game. If it means returning to the ghettos and speaking with kids in the projects about the horrors of dog fighting he’ll do it – whatever it takes. Is he really repentant? I don’t know. I just want him to go away.

What’s Pacelle want out of the ‘Michael Vick Ghetto Tour?’ That’s an easy question. He wants money to pour into the HSUS – whatever it takes. I’d like Pacelle and the HSUS to go away too.

Against all odds, thanks to real animal shelters, who stepped forward, the Vick dogs have been rehabilitated and now live in homes. They are called the Vicktory Dogs.

Kudos to the real people and organizations that made it possible – who believed these dogs deserved a second chance and prove to shelters throughout the country that pit bulls can be rehabilitated despite their past abuse:

Bad Rap – a California pit bull rescue group – the first group to some forward and petition the courts to allow for professional evaluation of the seized Vick fighting dogs – Bad Rap refused to agree with PETA, which called the Vick dogs ‘ticking time bombs’ urging for prompt euthanasia, and the HSUS which also called for their disposal. Bad Rap was also responsible for the rehabilitation of many of the Vick pit bulls

ASPCA – coordinated the evaluation of the Vick dogs bringing together renowned dog experts and behaviorists.

The American Justice system and the court appointed guardians of the Vick dogs who heeded the advice of the team of evaluators and allowed for the rehabilitation of the Vick dogs.

Best Friends – a Utah rescue group that took part in the rehabilitation of some of the Vick dogs

All of the un-named volunteers who spent hours with these dogs – to all the volunteers who opened their homes to the Vick dogs – providing foster homes and a ‘normal’ environment.

Please visit www.BadRap.org and www.BestFriends.org to see some of those happy pit bull faces and meet the true animal advocates who were down in the ditches with these dogs helping them make the transition into a sane world where people love dogs.

I am sure there were many more involved in this rehabilitation project. Forgive me for any omissions. Please leave a comment below and I will be sure to add you to the list of hero volunteers – the ones who make a difference every day to unfortunate canines.

Do you have an abused dog tale to tell? Have you seen the power of recuperation through love, respect and care? I’d like to hear from you.

Semper Fido,
Marilyn

It seems like it has been raining for about two months now. I sometimes get a little restless but I can, on the other hand, take advantage of gray skies and catch up on my reading. There’s still a formidable stack of brand new unopened books sitting on the coffee table tempting me. I scoff at the rain. The roof is sound, the sump pump in the old stone basement is armed and if dampness chills to the bone I will turn on the propane fireplace – and I will read.

Just as I curl into my favorite chair with a well reviewed new mystery novel, I smell revolution in the air. The girls – my two German shepherd dogs – are conspiring…

The girls can be the penultimate snuggle bed dogs. If either of us sleep in late Tsunami and Annie will just as soon join in. But once the day begins, they take it in earnest – there must be an action plan. Food, outs, games, walks, outings – it’s what they demand and generally my husband and I are willing to partake in dog doings. But not on rainy days.

In truth, the girls don’t like rain either. Products of routines, they thunder downstairs, leaping and yapping at the back door – a game that has played out every morning since they were puppies. I put my hand on the door knob and wait. Their faces anxious “Will she open the door?” they ask. Of course I will. I always do. “Okay, Annie, let’s sit nicely and she will open the damn door. If I had a thumb I’d open it myself,” Tsunami says. They sit smiling up at me. I open the door quickly before they break their sits and then we must repeat the routine. Something none of us really wants.

Their ages melt away as they leap from the deck – no need for stairs when there is an urgency for yard investigating, peeing and pooping and maybe a good ole game of bite the neck. Suddenly the frenzy ends – they’ve noticed the rain. Nothing gets by my dogs. They run to the shelter of the leeward hedgerow along the fence and shake the odious rain from their coats – coats that were bred for by German sheep herders to be waterproof and resilient. Try telling that to the girls. They amend their yard plans and proceed up the deck and with what can only be called hang-dog expressions look up at me pathetically. They want in. It is a day not fit for man or beast.

Annie 'suffers' in the rain

Like two working sheepdogs coming home the fields they demand their wipe downs. We concede and sop the remaining droplets from their coats. They plop into their deep, velvet, doughnut beds and wait for sustenance. While mixing up their breakfast I listen to the Weather Channel which assures me that the deluge will continue for the next few days. I glance at the coffee table as I chop veggies and chicken. The dogs watch me – specks of drool along their snouts. I glance again at the coffee table – a brand new Elmore Leonard mystery resting there in all of its virginity. If I was prone to drooling I would.

Breakfast is served. It is quickly devoured. The dogs exchange bowls in the hopes that one of them was remiss in licking off all food fragments. Then, off they go to their beds to properly digest a rather satisfying meal.

Perfect. My husband and I agree on our book selections. Fresh coffee is brewing. Life is good. Until the revolution.

Despite their age – 9 & 8 – they are active dogs who require quite a bit of exercise and/or activities. And generally we comply as it suits all of us quite well. Except on raining, reading days.

Very soon after I am comfortably ensconced in my chair, I hear Tsunami at the back door, delicately and quite cunningly she taps at the door with the tops of her nails. It is a distinctive sound – one not to be ignored. I get up – Annie follows me – in anticipation of a door opening ceremony. I open the door – the rains are heavy. The dogs stand in the kitchen and look out at the rain for a few seconds then walk off into the living room to try out the futon.

Back to the Leonard mystery – I re-read page one. Somewhere deep into page three the dogs erupt into fierce, ferocious barks, snarls, growls while leaping at the front door with fury. Startled, I jump up and look out the window for what must be terrorist invaders…nothing in sight except the rain. I tell them ‘quiet.’ They comply. But I see the devil in Tsunami’s ebony eyes. This is not over.

But Leonard beckons. I’ll give it another try.

Revolution's in the air

 Maybe there was a meter reader out there or something – maybe it is not a canine conspiracy to stop me from my reading.

Back to my book. Almost immediately after I get comfortable and back into the plot I espy Tsunami from the corner of my eye. She’s zeroed in on me. With her most endearing smile on the sweetest dog face in the world, she plops her long snout right onto the open book. With the most loving eyes, she gazes up at me. I look into the living room and glance at Annie who I swear is cheering Tsunami on. So transparent these shepherds.

Enough. I have rainy day bored dogs. No sense fighting it. Let the games begin.

First event? “Go Find!”

This is a pretty simple game but it garners lots of enthusiasm as it involves all four of us. Tsunami is a trained Search and Rescue K9 but any dog can do this and I have never seen one who didn’t love it.

I take both dogs into the kitchen and hold them by their collars as Hal goes off hooting and hollering swinging a Kong on a rope. The dogs are psyched. They howl, yap, whine and lunge in delight. Soon there is silence – Hal is hidden. I wait – four shepherd eyes stare at me and wait too. “Hal?” I say. Again and again. Then, what they’ve been waiting for… “Hal…Go Find!” and the dogs are let loose.

We don’t have a large home. The dogs look in all the usual places – moving quickly and eliminating noted hiding places. Because our scents are throughout the house they must discriminate and find the freshest. This actually burns up a lot of energy. A working explosive detection dog is often rested after just a half hour of intense sniffing.

In minutes they are generally successful in finding Hal. We’ve added a little twist to this game. The hider is always hidden behind a closed door. The girls bark at the door in protest. But in a second or so, Tsunami leaves the ‘victim,’ as she has been trained to do as a SAR dog and comes back to find me. Annie understands this part of the game all too well and follows along leaping and biting Tsunami’s neck along the way. When Tsunami finds me she obediently sits in front of me and stares up into my eyes. “Good Girl,” I say. “Show me!”

The game resumes. With Tsunami in the lead and Annie again joining in with leaps and feigned attacks upon Tsu, I follow the duo to Hal’s hiding spot. They hit the closet door, barking furiously. I open it up. “There’s Hal!” My dogs are geniuses. The super sleuths of the canine world. We must all play tug in recognition of brilliance. Kongs on ropes appear and we tug and play and squeal in delight.

Second Event: Yoga

Yoga you ask? Yes, Yoga, an absolutely tranquil, loving activity that is good for you AND your dog. Our dogs are too rambunctious to start out a dog day with Yoga. I usually precede our Yoga with something high-paced, like the Go Find game, or if the weather is nice, an aerobic game of soccer or fetch or chase me. Something to take the edge off.

Yoga for dogs is a natural fit. Most exercises are on the floor – dog level. I don’t think we spend enough time down on the ground with our dogs. Try it out yourself. Sit on the floor and your dog will be delighted and automatically come to you. Especially if you are not armed with a brush, comb, toothbrush, or nail trimmer. They may be suspicious at first but once they realize you are down on the floor to just touch them and interact with them they will love you for it.

The Canine Kingdom is featuring a Yoga DVD, with Amy Stevens. It is an excellent guide into the world of Downward Facing Dog, whether that special canine is a Great Dane or a Yorkie.

Semper Fido,

Marilyn