Pup Culture Magazine—June/July

PUPCULTURE June/July 2012 | www.pupculturemagazine.com

MAGAZINE

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2012 HEALTHY DOGS PRODUCT GUIDE INSIDE!

IS YOUR DOG THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS?

+

TRANSFORMING ANECDOTAL EVIDENCE INTO A SCIENTIFIC REALITY

LICK. SLOBBER. DROOL. FIGHTING CANINE CANCER WITH A DOG-A-DAY

WOOF THIS...

SCRATCH THAT! 10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD EXERCISE WITH YOUR DOG

FRAN DRESCHER

FINDING LOVE AFTER LOVE

Most pet store puppies coMe froM puppy Mills.

Take the pledge not to buy anything in pet stores that sell puppies.

m o c . s ie p p u P e r o t S No Pet

MAGAZINE

PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY 2012 • HEALTH & WELLNESS ISSUE

20

26

COVER STORY

DEPARTMENTS

26

12

TTOUCH TTouch Circle

14

FASHION Green Steals the Scene

16

LEISURE Going The Distance: The Sport of Dock Jumping

18

WELLNESS Keeping Your Dog Hydrated

33

DOG AS ART Fitness Dogs

50

NUTRITION Woof This, Scratch That

FRAN DRESCHER Finding Love After Love

FEATURES 20

IS YOUR DOG THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS? Transforming Anecdotal Evidence Into A Scientific Reality

30

DIETING WITH MY DOG Author Peggy Frezon Shares Her Weight Loss Journey With Her Dog, Kelly

38

LICK. SLOBBER. DROOL. Fighting Canine Cancer WIth A Dog-A-Day

46

STAYING THE COURSE Therapy Dogs Help Children with Special Needs Excel Through Agility

2 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

COLUMNS 52

BIG CITY, LITTLE DOG

54

ADVENTURES IN PET SITTING

30

38

46

BARK-CETERA

PUPCULTURE June/July 2012 | www.pupculturemagazine.com

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

6

CONTRIBUTORS

8

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

10

DOGGIE DELICACIES: Strawberry Banana Ice Cream

24

READERS PET PICS: Dogs in Action

42

MAKE YOUR OWN: Fleece Ball

43

HEALTHY DOGS PRODUCT GUIDE

56

ASK THE EXPERT

58

PRODUCT REVIEW: Wacky Walk’r

60

PRODUCT REVIEW: Cloud K9

62

THE FUNNY BONE: Workout Do’s & Don’ts

64

THE PUP CULTURE LIST: 10 Reasons Why You Should Excercise With Your Dog

66

PUPPY PERSONALS

MAGAZINE

4

HEALTH & WELLNESS 2012 HEALTHY DOGS PRODUCT GUIDE INSIDE!

IS YOUR DOG THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS?

+

TRANSFORMING ANECDOTAL EVIDENCE INTO A SCIENTIFIC REALITY

LICK. SLOBBER. DROOL. FIGHTING CANINE CANCER WITH A DOG-A-DAY

WOOF THIS...

SCRATCH THAT! 10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD EXERCISE WITH YOUR DOG

FRAN DRESCHER

FINDING LOVE AFTER LOVE

ON THE COVER

Fran Drescher & Esther

www.pupculturemagazine.com | 3

PUP CULTURE

MAGAZINE

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Furthering Our Love of Dogs

Welcome to the June/July “Health & Wellness” issue of Pup Culture Magazine. I hope that you are enjoying the beginning of summer as much as both my dogs and I are.This month, we are promoting making healthy choices not only for yourself, but for your four-legged counterpart.

Be sure to read about actress Fran Drescher and her dog Esther, our cover story on page 26. Fran talks about her battle with cancer and how Esther helped her find love after love.

We also hope you will find motivation to make healthy choices from our Dieting with My Dog Article on page 30. Author Peggy Frezon shows us that your perfect weight-loss companion has four-legs and a tail.

We’re proud to introduce our newest addition to the magazine, Dog As Art . It’s a photo editorial that will feature the work of our contributing photographers who will display a photographic series related to the theme of each issue. This issue features the work of our Photo Editor, Michelle Macirella. You can see her Fitness Dogs Series on page 33.

Also, this summer’s hottest colors are green and tangerine. Designer Laura Kinsey offers some fashion ideas on page 14 to make sure your dog is on trend this summer.

Make sure to check out our make your own craft project, yummy treat recipe, and of course, those cute little Weiner dogs, Max and Mina in “The Funny Bone” comic on page 62. Also, be sure to read our columns Big City Little Dog and Adventures in Pet Sitting.

Don’t forget to visit us at www.PupCultureMagazine.com or “Like” us on Facebook to stay current with more great articles, information and giveaways exclusive to the web. As always, our bi-monthly online subscription is free, so be sure to sign-up on our mailing list through the website to have the magazine delivered to your inbox.

Publisher PUP CULTURE Magazine Editor-in-Chief Gabriella Martinez Contributing Editors Scott Broberg Michelle Macirella Christine White Creative Director Monica Cevallos Photo Editor Michelle Macirella Design & Production Monica Cevallos Gabriella Martinez Contributing Writers Carol Giotto Laura Kinsey Michelle Macirella Gabriella Martinez Debra Thesing Elaine Webster Christine White Dr. Linda A. Banks, DVM Dr. Tom Linnenbrink, DVM Contributing Photographers Julie Clegg, Bailey & Banjo Pet Photography Jessice Luce, Jessica Luce Photography Michelle Macirella, Luminaria Photography Robert Ochoa, Pawmazing Photography Terri Parthum, Terri Parthum Photography

Cheers!

Gabriella

Advertising Inquires call (585) 857.7126 or email Christine@pupculturemagazine.com The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, images, photographs, or other materials. By accepting and publishing advertising, the publisher in no way recommends, guarantees or endorses the quality of services or products within those advertisements.

Copyright 2012 by PUP CULTURE Magazine. All rights reserved.

No part of publication may be reproduced by any means, electronic or mechanical, including the internet or photocopying without the written permission of the publisher. PUP CULTURE Magazine and its logotype are the trademarks of PUP CULTURE Magazine.

4 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

Gabriella

Contributors Gabriella Martinez, Editor-In-Chief Gabriella is a marketing professional and owner of A Barkers Dozen Gourmet Dog Treats. Her intricately decorated treats have been featured in various publications such as People Pets, Dog Tipper and local papers.

She is a graduate from Rochester Institute of Technology with a Bachelors of Scuience in Multidisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Printing and Publishing, Photographic Arts and Sciences, Marketing and Psychology. A life-long animal lover, she currently lives with her 3 dogs and 6 cats.

Michelle Macirella, Photo Editor & Contributing Writer Michelle Macirella is the Owner/Photographer of Luminaria Photography in Rochester, NY. In addition to being a photographer, Michelle was also a professional theatrical Stage Manager and Production Secretary on Academy & Emmy Award winning film and television productions such as A Beautiful Mind and Ed. She has been a contributing writer and photographer for several publications including Lake Affect Magazine and Rochester Woman Magazine, and is a member of Professional Photographers of America. One of Michelle’s specialties is commercial pet photography and pet portraits. She is a lover of all things dog, especially her own Tibetan Spaniel mix, Bear, who brightens her life every day!

Monica Cevallos, Creative Director Monica is an avid animal lover and design and illustration fancier, who 8 years ago merged these three loves together to form Sniff Design Studio™, an award-winning graphic design studio that caters to the pet industry. She holds degrees in Fine Art, Graphic Design and Print Production from San Fransico State University and Platt College of Design. She is also the proud mother of Willamina & Maxamillion (A.K.A.) Mina and Max, two darling yet little devil dachshunds.

Christine White, Contributing Writer & Ad Sales Christine White lives in Rochester, NY with her dog Bailey Rae, named after musician Corinne Bailey Rae. Her areas of interest include fashion, research-oriented articles and feature stories chronicling inspiring people within the dog industry. Christine graduated from S.U.N.Y. Geneseo with a B.A. in communication and has been writing ever since she can remember. As a marketing intern with the American Red Cross Christine gained experience interviewing clients and writing press releases, blog posts and testimonials. She volunteers regularly at local animal shelters providing the animals with walks along the nearby trail, love and attention.

Debra Thesing, Contributing Writer (Make Your Own Crafts) Debra Thesing works in the legal field by day and all things Pug the rest of her waking hours! She is the owner of Pugpossessed - a little shop not just for Pugs. She and her husband are owned by 6 Pugs, 3 of whom are rescues. She is actively involved with rescue and travels near and far meeting up with online friends and going to Pug events and fundraisers.

Carol Giotto, Contributing Writer (TTouch) Carol was first certified as a Tellington TTouch Practitioner in 2001. She is actively involved with Therapy Dogs International; she is the current director of TDI Chapter #216 and she and her two therapy dogs (Jonah and Lottie Mae) visit various libraries and nursing homes in the Rochester Area. Carol is also a founding member and Treasurer of Veterans PetReach, Inc., a local charitable organization whose mission is foster, train and place a carefully selected shelter or rescue animal with a Veteran who can benefit from the presence of a companion animal. Carol is also actively involved in fundraising activities for the Rochester City Animal Shelter (Rochester Animal Services). She lives with her husband, English Mastiffs and a cat.

6 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

Dr. Linda A. Banks, DVM, Guest Writer Dr. Linda A. Banks, currently the director at Stone Ridge Veterinary Hospital, has practiced veterinary medicine in Rochester, New York, for more than 20 years. She completed undergraduate studies in animal science at Cornell University and received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. She is a member of numerous veterinary medicine associations and strongly believes in the importance of veterinary continuing education. Outside of the hospital, Dr. Banks enjoys spending time with her husband two sons and their furry children, which includes a Boxer named Diesel and two cats named Batman and Midnight.

Dr. Tom Linnenbrink, DVM, Guest Writer Dr. Tom Linnenbrink has practiced veterinary medicine for more than 10 years. He completed his undergraduate studies in biology at Colorado State University and received his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University’s School of Veterinary Medicine in 2001. He worked as an intern in medicine and surgery at Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine before moving to Rochester, New York, to work as an emergency staff clinician at Animal Emergency Services, where he works today.

Julie Clegg, Contributing Photographer Julie Clegg of Bailey & Banjo Pet Photography is an award-winning photographer, most recently voted Best of Western Washington. Julie’s efforts to raise money and awareness for canine cancer research led her to start another company called Lick. Slobber. Drool., a dog lifestyle company that sells canine cancer related products with a portion of the proceeds going back to canine cancer research. Julie’s work has been featured on several covers of City Dog Magazine where she is a regular contributor, in addition to Dog Fancy, The Bark and Pup Culture. She currently resides in Issaquah, WA with her family which includes Bailey & Banjo, her two lovable yellow labs.

Linda Dow Hayes, Contributing Photographer Linda Dow Hayes is a portrait photographer living and working in Upstate New York. Born and raised in New Hampshire, she has fond memories of time spent with her first family dog, Susie and her stepdog Rasputin. She enjoys spending time with her family attending sporting events and concerts as well as hiking and relaxing at home. Along with her English Springer Spaniel, KC (short for Katherine Claire-which her family decided was far too proper of a name for daily use), she has a cat, Maybelline, and 2 Japanese Fighting Fish, Gypsy and Mayor McFish, as members of her family.

Jessica Luce, Contributing Photographer Jessica graduated from Portfolio Center’s post-graduate program for Commercial Photography and knew before she even got her hands on the diploma that dog photography is what she’s meant to do! Her sincere love for dogs of all breeds combined with her creative passion for photography birthed a career that she wouldn’t dare trade for anything else.

Jessica is an Atlanta, Georgia native and you can find her photographing family pets and for rescue groups throughout Atlanta and its suburbs.

Terri Parthum, Contributing Photographer Terri is a certified by Professional Photographers of America (PPA) & is currently serving on the Board of Greater Rochester Professional Photographers. She has over 20 years experience in the photographic industry. Many 4 legged friends have made their home with her over the years. Currently, she is the proud Aunt (& occasional babysitter) to 3 Yorkies & a Shih Tzu.

www.pupculturemagazine.com | 7

JUNE/JULY

CALENDAR O F

EVENTS

JUNE 9th

Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge DEL MAR, CA

9:30AM - 3:30PM

JUNE 9th

The Fast & The Furriest® 10K, 5K & 1-Mile Dog Walk

JUNE 23rd

Ride To End Dogfighting MILWAUKEE, WI

ROCHESTER, NY

7AM - 2PM

9AM - 8PM

This premier canine sporting event features dogs competing in a variety of “Olympicstyle” events including dog diving, freestyle flying disc, head-to-head weave poles, Jack Russell hurdle racing, speed and catch and agility.

Mark your calendar for our 6th annual event.

Join us for the 10K, 5K, dog walk, and pet festival that will again feature live music, food vendors, and a variety of activties for you and your pets.

Join us for an all day rally at Milwaukee Harley-Davidson features live music, delicious Carrabba’s food, vendors, attractions, raffle prizes, door prizes and the 50/50 Jackpot drawing! Supports the programs of the Brew City Bully Club that are creating a more humane Milwaukee one child at a time.

For More Information and Tickets: www.BarkNetwork.com

For More Information: www.VSAS.org

For More Information and Tickets: www.RideToEndDogfighting.com

JULY 14th

6th Annual Poochapalooza MARYSVILLE, WA

10AM - 5PM

Pet contests, demos, live music, CGC testing, flyball, “Fashions & Rescues” runway dog show showcasing adoptable rescue dogs.

For More Information: www.poochapalooza.org 8 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

JULY 19th

Wags and Whiskers Family Fun Fair

Want Your Pet Related Event Listed?

ROTTERDAM JUNCTION, NY

11AM-4PM

Come join us for a pawsitively good time!

AgileDogs demonstrations, reptile adventure shows, pet photo booth,craft vendors, food, live music by What-Ever!, KidsZone, Auctions and more!

For More Information: www.schenectadyspca.org

Email us the details at info@pupculturemagazine.com and we will do our best to get it listed either online or in our magazine.

ICY FRESH

STRAWBERRY-BANANA ICE CREAM PHOTO BY: TERRI PARTHUM

INGREDIENTS: n 1 32oz container of plain organic yogurt n 1 cup of organic strawberries, rinsed n 1-2 ripe organic bananas n 1/8 cup organic honey n 1 tsp vanilla

DIRECTIONS: 1. Place yogurt, strawberries, bananas, honey and vanilla into a blender.

2. Blend until all ingredients are smooth.

3. Pour into ice cube tray or empty container.

4. Freeze overnight.

5. Remove from ice cube tray or scoop with ice cream scooper and feed to hungry puppies.

10 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

TWEET TO WIN!

A ONE YEAR SUPPLY OF POOPY PACKS & A ONE PAGE PROFILE OF YOUR DOG IN PUP CULTURE MAGAZINE

HOW TO ENTER YOUR DOG: 1. Follow @metropaws and @PupCultureMag 2. Tweet Your Favorite “Beach Dog” themed photo of your dog with the hashtag #ILOVEPCandMETROPAWS Winner will be announced July 15th!

®

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

www.ttouch.com

Written By Carol Giotto

TTouch Bodywork is comprised of circles, lifts and slides. In the December issue of Pup Culture Magazine, I explained how to do “zig-zag” which is considered a slide. In this issue, I am going to describe how to do a TTouch circle. There are over a dozen different touches that are all based on the TTouch circle.

The position of your hand on your dog - what part and how much is in contact- defines these touches.

Before we get into the specifics here are just a couple of reminders. TTouch is working with a dog’s nervous system, not muscle - bodywork is very gentle. TTouch is very different from massage, the pressure is generally what you would be comfortable with pressing on your eyelid (assuming you are not wearing contacts). Also, when you practice TTouch on your dog, you do not want your dog on command (“stay” or “stand”).

You want to notice your dog’s reaction and adjust what you are doing to make it more acceptable. Sometimes adjusting what you are doing means stopping and taking a pause.

To do a TTouch circle, put the tips of your fingers in contact with your dog. Your hand should be relaxed with fingers slightly apart. Now imagine that your fingers are glued to your dogs skin. You want to move them all clockwise making a circle and a quarter. You’re not sliding your fingers over the skin, you want the skin to move in a circle and a quarter. Your thumb should be on your dog as well. You can either use your thumb as a pivot point or you can move your thumb along with your fingers. Your fingers should move relatively slowly. Most of TTouch is about bringing your dog into a focused state. If you make your circle too fast, you will actually excite your dog instead of helping them to focus.

Once you have completed the TTouch circle, stop and move your fingers to a new location. You can either slide your fingers to a new spot or pick them up and move them. Try both and watch your dog’s reaction. You will see which method is more 12 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

fig. 1 If it is helpful, you can think of the face of a clock when making your circle. Think of starting with your fingers at 6 o'clock. You want to slowly move them around to 9 o'clock, then 12 o'clock, then 3, back down to 6 and stopping at 8 or 9 o'clock.

acceptable for your dog.

You can do these TTouch circles all over your dog’s body (head to tail and down to their toes). While you are doing them, again, be sure to watch your dog’s reaction. If they are protective of parts of their body, respect that and move to a part of their body that is more acceptable. You will find over time they may start presenting certain areas to you.

In addition to moving to a different part of your dog’s body, you can also adjust your touch by changing your speed, pressure and contact. Most dogs prefer a light slow pressure with a clockwise circle. Some dogs however, prefer a counterclockwise circle. You can change your contact by putting more or less of your hand in contact with your dog. The touch will be more diffused if you have more of your hand in contact (this can be more accepting to some dogs). Play around with these adjustments and watch how your dog reacts.

Stay tuned for more. In upcoming issues, I’m going to describe some common applications for using different circle touches. Examples of applications are toe-nail trimming and injury or arthritis.n

Gorgeous GREEN is this summer’s hottest hue—whether you choose refreshing MINTY GREEN, a sparkling shade of LIME ZEST, a bold GRASSY GREEN, or a bright shade of PEACOCK, your dog will be on trend. Splash in some TANGERINE accents and you’re good to go!

New from Puppy Kisses, these felt collar buds with adjustable Velcro closure will jazz up any collar! Add two for extra pizzazz. $6, www.puppykisses.com

Puppylocks are natural feather arrangements that can be easily applied to add flare to your pet’s coat. Available in an array of colors, patterns and sizes, they will stay in your pet’s fur until you’re ready for a new one! Also available as collar charms. Clips start at $12, collar charms at $15. www.puppylocks.com

Show off your pet with a Wildebeest original that combines tasteful aesthetics with function. Perfect for all pets everyday! Shown in Chambray/Celeste. Other colors available starting at $23, www.wildebeest.com

GREEN STEALS THE SCENE

By Laura Kinsey

Light, breezy, and on trend! These fresh green dresses will be a hit at your dog’s next garden party!

Country Club dress and Rosette Ruffle Dress from Zack & Zoey starting at $12.40 and $15.77, both available at www.baxterboo.com

Comfy, stretchy, cool, and light, this soft cotton tee is reversible for two looks: delicious green and orange stripes on one side and green and orange polka dots on the other. $39.95, www.oscarnewman.com

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The JoJo collection from Mochi & Jolie offers casual wear that’s pure comfort and easy chic with a touch of freshness. Bunny Foo Foo t-shirt and other styles available from the 2012 resort collection. $27. www.mochiandjolie.com

Hairbows are a punchy way to keep hair out of your dog’s eyes this summer! Featuring a nonslip French barette and genuine Swarovski crystal elements in the center, these bows from Puppy Kisses are quality all the way!

Circus and Easter Basket styles shown, $9 each. More styles available at www.puppykisses.com

Enter the Ivy League set with Mungo & Maud’s Preppy Collar & Lead. Made from fine striped webbing with calf leather trim, you’ll be sure to set the trend this term for your first day back at the park. Available in beige/red, grey/green and brown/pink.

Nickel-plated hardware. Collars £55-69, Leads £75-95 www.mungoandmaud.com

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole. ~Roger Caras

Photo By LuminariaPhotography.com

GOING THE DISTANCE THE SPORT OF DOCK JUMPING

Written By Michelle Macirella | Photography By Robert Ochoa, Pawmazing Photography

W

hen I first heard the term dock jumping I pictured happy Labrador Retrievers on a warm summer day jumping off a dock into a lake, something dogs everywhere have probably been doing for years. But now, as a recognized sport, dogs of any breed can jump off of a platform into a pool to compete in official dock jumping competitions.

Many dog owners are aware of other popular dog sports like flyball and agility which have been around for awhile, but dock jumping (also known as dock diving) is fairly new to the scene and one of the fastest growing. First started in 1997 at the Incredible Dog Challenge event sponsored by Purina, dock jumping grew in popularity after the ESPN Great Outdoor Games in 2000. Dock jumping had been added into the Games as a “filler” event and wasn’t predicted to have much interest.

But when the spectators numbered in the thousands and traffic had to be shut down for several city blocks it became clear dock jumping was going to take off. The organization, Dock Dogs was founded in 2000 to establish the rules and standards for the sport as well as sponsor dock jumping sporting events nationally. And in 2008 the United Kennel Club (UKC) added dock jumping as one of its officially recognized UKC sports.

The simple definition for dock jumping is a sport where dogs compete in jumping for distance or height from a dock to a body of water. Within the competition there are teams which consist of the dog and its handler. The distance of the jump is measured from the edge of the dock to where the base of the dog’s tail breaks the surface of the water. Each team gets two jumps and the longer of the two jumps is their score for the competition.

There are a couple different techniques that a handler can use during the competition. The more basic is called a place and 8 | |PUPCULTURE 16 PUPCULTUREAPRIL/MAY JUNE/JULY

send where the handler throws a toy into the water and then releases the dog to run and jump off the platform to go fetch the toy. The more advanced technique is called chase where the dog is in a stay at the starting position while the handler walks to the end of the dock holding the toy, then releases the dog and throws the toy at the same time trying to get the dog to “chase” it into the water. The goal with this method is to increase distance by getting the dog to jump up, instead of just out or flat, as with place and send. Vertical jumping is a new twist on the sport and has the dogs jumping for height. A training bumper is held several feet out over the water by an extender. A starting height is set and dogs must jump up and bring the bumper down by catching it or knocking it off in order for that height to count.

Then the bumper is moved up higher and the dog progresses to the next round. This repeats until there is only one dog left who can still reach the bumper.

Getting your dog started in the sport of dock jumping is relatively easy because it doesn’t require a lot of training as with other sports like agility. You just need to make sure your dog is comfortable with swimming and has a strong desire for toys. It’s also one of the safest sports because there is no real pressure on their joints since the dogs land in water. Some owners do take more time to condition and train their dogs for the sport, while others just see it as another fun activity to do with their dog.

You can get more information and see a list of events in your area through several dock jumping organizations including: Dock Dogs www.dockdogs.com, Splash Dogs www. splashdogs.com, Ultimate Air Dogs www.ultimateairdogs.com and American Diving Dogs www.americandivingdogs.com.n

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18 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

KEEPING YOUR DOG HYDRATED Ways To Prevent Fido From Becoming A ‘Hot Dog’ This Summer

By Dr. Tom Linnenbrink, DVM.

W

e all enjoy spending time outdoors in the summer with our dogs, but it is important to keep them hydrated and cool much the way we need to keep ourselves hydrated to lessen the risk of heat-related illness. Our fourlegged companions, unlike us, don’t sweat to cool themselves and while we see them panting, we may not realize the amount of water they are losing. They lose water and dissipate heat through a process called evaporation, which is the endothermic process of a fluid changing to a vapor.

Dogs, by panting, bring large quantities of air in contact with the mucosal surfaces of the nose and mouth. This allows them to dissipate heat primarily by evaporation and, to a lesser extent, convection, provided the air is cooler than the surface it is moving over. Your dog’s ability to cool himself through this method effectively decreases as humidity increases; therefore, it is important to consider the heat index. The heat index combines air temperature and relative humidity in an attempt to determine the human-perceived equivalent temperature. So, while we are sweating away and realize we are becoming dehydrated, we don’t realize that “Fido” is dehydrated. Once dehydrated dogs are less able to cool themselves through evaporative cooling, they are much like a car without water in the radiator; they will rapidly overheat and suffer from heat stroke.

There are several things that can be done to help maintain adequate hydration and avoid heat stroke. First, make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water before, during and after being outside. If you are planning on taking your dog out for an extended period of time, bring along water and offer it every

15-30 minutes. Plenty of pet-friendly water bottles with dishes are available online or in your local pet and sporting goods stores.

Symptoms of dehydration include the gums feeling tacky to the touch and the skin becoming slow to return to its natural position when pulled up. Other signs include excessive panting and a rapid heart rate. It is a good idea to evaluate your dog before going out so you have an idea of what his normal hydration is like. This being said, most veterinarians find it difficult to determine when a dog is less than 5 percent dehydrated. Therefore, if you feel your dog is dehydrated, it is better to err on the side of caution. Stop your activity, offer your dog water, and find a cool place in the shade for him to recover.

Also, to avoid dehydration in the summer sun, avoid activity in the middle of the day and allow your dog time to get used to warm temperatures. In other words, don’t take him for a long walk on the first warm day of the year. Also, always consider your dog’s health and breed. Dogs with heavy coats, preexisting respiratory conditions (whether acquired or congenital) or who are overweight are at considerably more risk for having trouble as temperatures and humidity increase.

This summer while you and your four-legged companion are out enjoying the weather, remember to keep his hydration and the forecast in mind. Pay careful attention to cues your dog may give that he is over-exerting himself in the heat. It is better to underestimate your dog’s fitness and overestimate his dehydration than to take a chance with heatstroke, which can have terrible consequences. n

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IS YOUR DOG

THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS?

Transforming Anecdotal Evidence About The Human/Animal Bond Into A Scientific Reality 20 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

Written By Christine White

Y

our dog undoubtedly adds value to your life. When you’re sad, he’s there to comfort you and dry your tears. He greets you at the door every day with the same enthusiasm as he did yesterday and he never fails to show you unconditional love and maintain your trust.

For Vanessa Mariani, Director Academic & Professional Affairs, Pfizer Animal Health U.S, the human/animal bond had an immediate impact on saving her mother’s life following a house fire.

“Veterinarians are key educators on the importance of prevention, wellness and sustained care. If they can work with other medical professionals, no matter the species they care for, then we’re making pivotal strides toward improving health-care overall. We

“What I have learned throughout my life from my dogs and cats came from a very personal experience where my mom almost died in a house fire,” Vanessa recalled. “If it had not been for the stubbornness of those pets to get into her room even when the doctors wouldn’t let them, my mom would have died. It was our dog’s presence that brought her back to life.”

Anecdotal evidence like Vanessa’s abounds and shows us the positive benefits dogs bring into our lives—lessened depression, a sense of calm and purpose, motivation to better ourselves to lead healthier lives—yet no literature to date has utilized the scientific method to prove whether this evidence is based upon fact or fiction.

All of that is about to change.

Pfizer Animal Health, in conjunction with the American Humane Association (AHA) has just completed the first of three stages in their groundbreaking study entitled Canines and Childhood Cancer: Examining the Effects of Therapy Dogs With Childhood Cancer Patients and Their Families. Their research will analyze the sociological, physiological and psychological affects of therapy dogs on pediatric cancer patients.

Dr. Michael J. McFarland, DVM, Dipl. ABVP, Group Director, Veterinary Medical Services at Pfizer Animal Health explained the inspiration behind the study was a philosophical conversation with Dr. Robin Ganzert, CEO and President of the American Humane Association.

“We had a strong desire to develop a truly ground-breaking study with AHA that had enough scientific rigor, enough patients involved with it, that we could establish once and for all that there is a real live measurable benefit to patients when animals are used in the appropriate way in an appropriate environment,” stated Dr. McFarland.

like to think of this as healthy pets equal healthy families.”

In the initial phases of their study Pfizer and AHA conducted a comprehensive literary review of all current anecdotal evidence available to the public pertaining to the positive benefits of therapy dogs to pediatric cancer patients.

According to Dr. Christine Jenkins, Group Director of U.S. Veterinary Medical Services, the second phase of the study will be a pilot program through which they hope to determine the parameters as well as the tools and the methodology that will be important, as Dr. Jenkins said, in ensuring the success of the larger-scale study (which will take place next year over a series of 24 to 36 months).

“By planning and looking at what is in the public domain currently and initiating a well-controlled randomized pilot study (followed with a full-scale study) we hope that we will be able to show and demonstrate the benefits of animal-assisted therapy on human health, particularly children who are undergoing cancer treatment,” Dr. Jenkins explained.

Although the study has been largely successful in its initial phase, there are many questions which continue to remain unanswered going into the second phase of the study. For one, is it possible to use psychological and sociological-based evidence in a study trying to provide answers for physiological reactions?

“Most of the scientific community realizes it’s sometimes very, very difficult to separate psychological benefit from physical benefit, that the two frequently go hand in hand,” Dr. McFarland reasoned.

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Dr. McFarland said the study also raises additional questions such as, “What is the benefit of animal-assisted therapy to the health-care worker? To the family of the child?” and “What benefit might there be to that child, after they’ve successfully negotiated that treatment, to re-integrate themselves into their classroom or other environments if they have an animal there to help them through that process?”

Whether or not we’re able to separate the two phenomenons remain unanswered as of yet, however, what is certain is that society is moving forward and embracing animal-assisted therapy as an integral part of our health and well-being.

“The human/animal interface is more and more accepted as essential to public health,” stated Vanessa. “Veterinarians are key educators on the importance of prevention, wellness and sustained care. If they can work with other medical professionals, no matter the species they care for, then we’re making pivotal strides toward improving health-care overall.

We like to think of this as healthy pets equal healthy families.”

important to their family as a whole, not just their pet.”

As Pfizer and AHA continue their research on pediatric cancer patients, a collaborative study between the Good Dog Foundation and the Continuum Cancer Centers of New York (located in Beth Israel Medical Center, St. Luke’s and Roosevelt Hospitals and The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary) is currently being conducted. The study is funded by Pfizer’s Global Research Grant and is expected to yield measurable results regarding the affects of therapy dogs on adult cancer patients at the end of this year. The adult and pediatric studies are just one part of a broader picture Pfizer will continue to explore.

“I think it’s a safe bet that this project is something that will lead to a series of studies, period,” affirmed Dr. McFarland. “We can apply the same basic principles of our study to other areas of health-care where there is clear, early evidence of an animalrelated benefit, but as of yet there has not been that effort to develop a truly robust clinical study that would withstand the scrutiny of the scientific community.”

According to Dr. McFarland increased focus on the impact of the human/animal interface on our health will also translate into increased credibility for the veterinarian.

According to Dr. McFarland the implications of this study are in-numerable and will continue to develop for years to come.

“With growing scientific evidence for the power of the human/ animal bond and its impact on human health, how much more relevant now does the veterinarian become in this whole equation?” Dr. McFarland questioned. “We’re not talking about just the companion in a family, but a ‘life-support system with four legs and fur,’ as Marty Becker used to say. We want people to realize how important it is to engage their veterinarian on a regular basis to maintain the health of their pets because it is

“The power of human/animal interaction is just now beginning to emerge and be understood— we’re just scratching the surface of our understanding of what interacting with animals does for the health of the human-being,” stated Dr. McFarland.

“It’s vitally important, I think, as good citizens and as a leading business in the animal health industry that we have a much better understanding of that power then we currently do and help people understand how to harness that.”n

“The power of human/ animal interaction is just now beginning to emerge and be understood— we’re just scratching the surface of our understanding of what interacting with animals does for the health of the human-being,” 46 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY 22 APRIL/MAY

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

Lifestyle & Studio Portraits Commercial Pet Photography

luminariaphotography.com facebook.com/LuminariaPhotography 585.414.2469

DOGS IN ACTION GEORGIA

BRUTUS

MINA

DAISY

TRINITY

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LUCY & GATOR

KAYDEN

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LILO

LILO

EMIE, BELLA & GUS Next month’s theme is: “BARK TO SCHOOL” Want your pup featured in the NEXT issue of Pup Culture? Email us your best “Bark To School” photo to:

info@pupculturemagazine.com

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Fran Drescher Finding Love After Love

Written By Gabriella Martinez | Photos Provided By Cancer Schmancer

Fran Drescher made us all laugh as Fran Fine in the hit series, The Nanny, but she is more than just an accomplished actress with a signature voice. She’s also a United States diplomat, a loving dog mom, a 12year uterine cancer survivor and President & Visionary of Cancer Schmancer—an organization devoted to the education, prevention and early detection of cancer. She’s also an expert at making lemonade out of lemons.

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hroughout our lives, we all go through difficult times and Fran is no exception. Fran’s life has encountered several, including getting divorced from her high school sweetheart and husband of 18 years, becoming a victim of a violent crime, getting diagnosed with uterine cancer and having to say goodbye to her dog of almost 19 years, Chester, to name a few.

According to Fran, she and Chester shared an incredible bond and he was perfectly content being a one woman dog—her dog. He was intricately intertwined within her life. Fran and Chester went everywhere together including photo shoots and talk shows. Chester even had a recurring role on The Nanny as C.C. Babcock’s lively tan pomeranian, who always seemed to love Fran Fine more.

Before being diagnosed with uterine cancer, Fran says she was misdiagnosed several times ranging from a peri-menopausal condition to restless leg syndrome. It wasn’t until two years and eight doctors later that Fran was diagnosed with a condition she actually had—uterine cancer. As difficult of a diagnosis as this was, Fran was never alone. Throughout her battle with cancer there were two men always by her side: her boyfriend and her pomeranian, Chester Drescher.

“I always tell people with cancer, especially if they live by themselves or are alone at night, to get a pet. When you’re away from the distractions of everyday life and you are lying in bed and are in your head, you need something, that warm body to bring you back into the now,” Fran explained.

Fran’s battle with cancer wasn’t just an adjustment for her, Chester needed to adjust to the change as well. While she www.pupculturemagazine.com | 27

was able to stay home recovering from her hysterectomy (and ultimately spend a lot of time with Chester, who was almost 19-years-old), she couldn’t do some of the things Chester had grown to love and expect. “I think it was especially hard on him, because after I had my hysterectomy, I couldn’t pick him up and he couldn’t understand why,” Fran remembered.

Although Fran eventually won her battle against cancer, unfortunately Chester died a mere 6 months after her hysterectomy. “I knew when he left my life that it would leave a void the size of the Grand Canyon, and it did. However, he was 19 and he couldn’t act as a dog anymore; it was the end of an era for me,” Fran said.

Fran writes more about his death in her book, Cancer Schmancer, which she wrote as a way to help educate others about the importance of being persistent and to prevent misdiagnosis. Her chapter, aptly titled “Chester Drescher” is a heartfelt glimpse of his final weeks and shows the lasting impact that he had on her life. “On December 26, 2000, the worst year of my life got even worse,” Fran wrote.

After several months of mourning and soul-searching, Fran decided to stop living in the past and focus more on the future.

It was with that new mindset she decided to bring another dog into her life. “After Chester died, I realized I would need something to propel me forward,” Fran explained.

In May of 2001, Fran brought Esther, a chocolate pomeranian, home. “She’s the most unique little creature. She’s the sweetest, most gentle creature I’ve ever met in my entire life of any species. There is not a mean bone in her body. And I feel very lucky to have her,” Fran said.

Like most dog owners know, no two dogs are the same and Chester and Esther are no exception. According to Fran, Chester was a high-energy pomeranian, who loved to be the center of attention. “He was just a little spit-fire,” she recalled. Esther on the other hand, is the complete opposite. “She’s a real bon-bon girl, she loves to just lay around.”

Fran stated people would often stop to question her, confusing Esther for a teddy bear. However, according to Fran people don’t need to know what species she is to know there is truly something special about her. “All they know is that they love her. It’s so easy to get caught under her spell,” Fran described.

“Esther is an angel that has come down from heaven to watch over us and show us love.”

Though Esther had some pretty big shoes to fill, she has had no problem rising to the challenge. Much like her older brother Chester, Esther enjoys attending industry events like talks shows, etc. with her mom—she has even had a recurring role in Fran’s previous sitcom Living with Fran. Now she is the newest cast member in Fran’s new hit sitcom, Happily Divorced. The new series was inspired by Fran’s real life experience and her marriage to her ex-husband, Peter Marc Jacobson.

They say every situation we are faced with, joyful or not, we learn something. According to Fran, finding Esther helped her to learn there is in fact ‘love after love.’ “I thought when I lost Chester I would never be able to love or be as committed to a dog as I was with him. Esther taught me that if I can in fact love

“I Knew when he left my life that it would leave a void the size of the Grand Canyon, and it did.”

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“Esther is an angel that has come down from heaven to watch over us and show us love.” another dog as much, then I can love another man as much, move on from a loss, etc.,” Fran said.

Fran has made turning pain into purpose her life’s mission. To date, she has devoted much of her time to educating others on the prevention and early detection of cancer. She also encourages both those currently battling cancer and cancer survivors to look beyond their medical conditions toward what makes them happy. “Cancer is just a slice in the pie of life. Don’t let cancer become the whole pie. Deal with what you have been dealt and move past it,” Fran reminds us.

In 2002, in an effort to prevent what happened to her from happening to others Fran wrote Cancer Schmancer, a book that chronicles her search for a diagnosis and ultimately her story of survival. She later founded the Cancer Schmancer Foundation & Movement in 2007 which, like her book, aims to shift the nation’s focus towards the prevention and early detection of cancer, and to help change people’s perspectives so they become medical consumers instead of passive patients. The organization aims to save lives in a different way—by catching cancer at its earliest stages.

In 2011, the Cancer Schmancer Foundation launched their Trash Cancer Campaign. The campaign focuses on creating public awareness about the toxic chemicals and carcinogens that can be found in consumer products and urges customers to avoid products with these ingredients. According to trashcancer.org, only 5-10% of all cancers are hereditary. Fran urges consumers to be aware of the products that we put in our mouths, on our skin and use in our households.

“I believe we need to eliminate toxins from our everyday life, and we can do the same with pet care. So eliminating unnecessary chemicals from our household (for example, no powder cleaner on the carpet) can have a positive effect on our health and our pets,” Fran said.

Photo By Ian Spanier

The Trash Cancer campaign’s website, in conjunction with Good Guide, allows users to search for products to see if they are free of known or suspected carcinogens. This provides people with the information they need to help them to become smarter consumers.

Despite all of the hardships she has faced Fran continues to inspire others to reach for that silver lining. Fran has learned to always find the positive in any negative situation— to find the joy lying beside the pain. Fran has embraced the new path life has taken her on.

Thanks to Esther, she has learned that love after love is not just a possibility, but a reality—that the heart has the ability to love another fully, even after a loss. Together both her and Esther are making a difference not only in each other’s lives, but in those they come in contact with on a daily basis.

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DIETING WITH MY DOG AuthoR PEGGY FREZON SHARES HER WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY WITH HER DOG, KELLY WRITTEN BY CHRISTINE WHITE | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PEGGY & MIKE FREZON

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he media bombards us daily with contradictory messages about weight-loss, and our fast-paced lifestyles have made it difficult for many of us to maintain a healthy diet or consistent exercise routine. Though it may seem impossible, there is still hope—the very workout companion and motivation you’ve been looking for has been by your side all along.

In her memoir, Dieting with my Dog, author Peggy Frezon shares her weight-loss journey and inspires us to seek healthier lifestyles for our sake and the sake of our dogs. Her book emphasizes the importance of teamwork in achieving success and the importance of leading by example for our furry companions.

“I want people to realize we’re responsible for our pet’s health and well-being,” Peggy said. “Our pets don’t choose how much they are fed or if they exercise daily so we must make sure to regulate this for them.”

The inspiration behind Peggy’s new mindset and her willingness to make a major lifestyle change for the sake of her health was her dog, Kelly. After both of her children went off to college Peggy was struck with the sudden reality of being in an empty nest and wanted to find a way to fill the void. By making the decision to adopt Kelly, Peggy found she gained much more than a warm body to fill the empty space in her home. She also gained a best friend to inspire her, lift her spirit and motivate her to lead a healthier lifestyle.

“Kelly is our first rescue dog and she has probably been the most influential in my life as far as bringing my attention to dogs that don’t have homes and how we can help them,” reflected Peggy. “We’ve had dogs from responsible breeders, but I think it’s a special kind of feeling to be able to help a homeless dog who has gone through hardship find a loving home.”

Peggy recalls visiting Kelly’s veterinarian who told her that her dog was overweight. Peggy herself was suffering from high cholesterol and high blood pressure. She realized if she and Kelly didn’t make some changes to manage their health a plethora of health issues such as diabetes, heart disease and joint problems were just around the corner for both.

“At that time I made the connection between what my doctor had been telling me all along with what Kelly’s veterinarian had just told to me,” Peggy explained. “When I realized that my diet and lack of exercise were also affecting my dog, that’s when I knew we had to start changing and that we could do it

together,” reflected Peggy. “Sometimes you’re more willing to do something for a loved one, a friend or a pet than you are to do for yourself.”

Slowly, Peggy started making lifestyle changes. Along the way, she began to put her extensive writing experience to good use and began to chronicle her and Kelly’s weight loss experience with the goal of helping others in mind.

Peggy, who said she had been feeding Kelly twice as much, if not more than what she actually needed, began feeding her pooch ¾ of a cup twice a day as recommended by her veterinarian — she was shocked at how little ¾ of a cup of food looked inside Kelly’s large food dish.

Peggy also changed her own diet by cutting back on sugars, starches and carbohydrates and replacing them with larger amounts of fruits, veggies and whole-grain foods. To make up for having less food in Kelly’s bowl Peggy began feeding her baby carrots in place of dog treats. Kelly also receives training treats (which are smaller and have fewer calories than most other treats) when learning new tricks or posing for photographs.

“Our pets don’t choose how much they are fed or if they exercise daily so we must make sure to regulate this for them.”

“I used to give Kelly food — my pizza crust, a scrap of chicken or whatever I was eating — every time she looked at me,” Peggy recalls. “My experience, however, has taught me to show Kelly love was to keep her healthy and to keep myself healthy so that we could have a lot of time together.”

Kelly also kept a close eye on Peggy throughout their weightloss journey and made sure her owner didn’t do anything she couldn’t do either.

“When I would go into the kitchen to get a snack Kelly would look at me like a little furry conscience telling me, ‘you should eat the right things because if I have to then you should too,’” said Peggy.

In addition to changes in her diet and mindset, Peggy also advocates the importance of adding a daily exercise routine to your schedule. She believes getting more exercise as well as getting out and being active have to go hand-in-hand with

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“The relationship between therapy dogs, cancer sniffing dogs, guide dogs and people are wonderful and help make our lives brighter— more complete if you will.” eating healthily. Kelly also made sure to remind Peggy of this every day.

“If there’s ever a day I’ve worked for too long without taking a break Kelly will walk over to me, nudge me and stick her paw on the keyboard, making it clear that it’s time to get out and take her for a walk,” Peggy stated.

Although Peggy admits Kelly wanted to go for walks for her own benefit, she still believes her persistence and enthusiasm for exercising and eating well was Kelly’s way of motivating and inspiring Peggy for her own good.

“Kelly is funny. She’s very spoiled and she definitely will not be ignored,” laughed Peggy. “She likes to make herself known and gets persistent if you’re not giving her enough attention.”

Kelly has inspired Peggy in more ways than just one. Her most recent memoir, Heart to Heart, Hand in Paw— How One Woman Finds Faith and Hope through the Healing Love of Animals, explores the impact dogs have had throughout her life and how they can enrich others’ lives as well.

“I’ve always been very interested in all the ways animals help people and how they can make them feel calmer,” stated Peggy.

“The relationship between therapy dogs, cancer sniffing dogs, guide dogs and people are wonderful and help make our lives brighter— more complete if you will.” n

Peggy’s Dieting Tips Get Out & Get Active “Getting out and getting active have to go hand-inhand with eating healthy. I recommend changing your diet first and adding exercise to your routine later-on.”

Avoid Snacking in Front of the TV “Snacking directly out of the bag or eating in front of the TV is distracting and you’re more likely to consume extra calories. Avoid over-eating and excess calories by being mindful of what you’re eating and portioning your snacks.”

Eat More Fruits, Vegetables & WholeGrain Foods. Cut Back On Fats, Starches & Carbohydrates “I had to learn how to read food labels and look for foods packed with whole grains which fill you up and really help you lose weight. I also stopped eating white flour, white sugar, white rice and white potatoes.”

No More Table Scraps, Please “I used to feed my pizza crust to Kelly as a sharing experience and a symbol of my love for her. I now realize true love means making healthy choices for your dog.”

Treat Your Dog’s Stomach Kindly BE SURE TO VISIT THE PEGGY’s FACEBOOK PAGE AT: FACEBOOK.COM/ PEGGYFREZONBOOKS Cover By Hubble & Hattie

32 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

“As Kelly and I cut back on our portion sizes there were times when she needed snacks to become fully satiated. Instead of giving her biscuits and fattening treats I started rewarding Kelly with baby carrots.

Now my dog really loves baby carrots for treats. In fact, she begs for them every night.”

FITNESS DOGS Photography By Michelle Macirella

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LICK. SLOBBER. DROOL. FIGHTING CANINE CANCER WITH A DOG-A-DAY Written By Michelle Macirella | Photography By Julie Clegg, Bailey & Banjo Pet Photography

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ulie Clegg, a Seattle based pet photographer starts each day with a similar objective in mind – find a dog to photograph. “I take my camera with me and when I see a dog I introduce myself to the person, tell them about the project I’m working on and ask them if they want to be a part of it,” Julie says. “I also work with some foster groups and when they get dogs that are available they’ll tell me and then that will be the dog of the day. It helps get the word out that this dog needs to be rescued and I thought it would be a good way to incorporate the shelter aspect into the project. But most of it is people I don’t know. I just meet them on the street or in my neighborhood, at the dog park or wherever I happen to be.”

Her search to find new dogs to photograph daily is for the Dog-A-Day for Canine Cancer project she started this year.

The goal is to photograph a dog every day and feature that photo on Facebook, Pinterest and her blog to raise awareness

of canine cancer. At the end of the year the photos will be compiled into a photo book or calendar and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Chase Away K9 Cancer Fund (part of the National Canine Cancer Foundation) to help fund canine cancer research. Another portion will go to a scholarship fund which provides dog owners with financial assistance for cancer related treatments for their dog.

Besides being a successful pet photographer, Julie is also a dog mom to two adorable yellow labs, Bailey and Banjo, who provided the inspiration for the name of her business, Bailey & Banjo Pet Photography. Julie says when she started seeing many of Bailey and Banjo’s friends get cancer it broke her heart. “Thankfully I have not experienced it personally with my own pets, but I have friends that have gone through it and I’ve seen a lot of it with my clients,” she says. Julie’s mother is also a cancer survivor. “I’ve been around it enough to see how devastating it is. So I just felt really drawn to the cause.

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You know how things touch you in the right way? This one just grabbed at me and I wanted to do something about it,” she says.

“The Dog-A-Day project has totally morphed into what it is,” Julie tells me. She says it started with her desire to get out from behind her desk. As a photographer she spends countless hours editing at her computer and she wanted to get out and meet people. Within a couple days of getting out and talking to people she realized she had a huge platform to educate the public about canine cancer. In the process she started taking photos each day of the dogs she met. Julie has a real talent for creating dog portraits. Her photographs are captivating, engaging and truly reveal the personality of the dog.

After awhile she realized she was going to have pictures every day and wondered what she could do with them to help raise money for canine cancer. She decided she would make a calendar or book and sell that in addition to selling individual prints. “So if people want to buy one or two they can or if they want to buy the calendar at the end of the year they can,” Julie says. She wants to have a few different offerings people can purchase to help support the cause. A sentiment which helped her start her other company, Lick. Slobber. Drool.

40 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

Lick. Slobber. Drool. is a dog lifestyle company that Julie started whose name was again inspired by her dogs, Bailey and Banjo. “Bailey is the drooler. Banjo is the licker. Put them together and take them to a dog park…a slobbery mess! And from that, Lick. Slobber. Drool. was born,” Julie says on the website. Lick. Slobber. Drool. sells dog related products and a portion of the proceeds go to the scholarship fund she set up to help people whose dogs are being treated for cancer get financial assistance with their medical bills. And another part will go to the Chase Away K9 Cancer Fund. “So we’re hitting it from both sides – a little bit of research and a little bit of something we can use to help somebody right now. You know if your dog gets cancer and you don’t have pet insurance, that’s a horrible choice to have to make,” Julie says.

The Dog-A-Day project photos and end of the year compilation will be sold through Lick. Slobber. Drool. in addition to the t-shirts and bumper stickers currently for sale.

Julie tells me she will also be adding more products in the near future. To find out more about her Dog-A-Day project and her work to fight canine cancer, visit lickslobberdrool.com. Visit baileyandbanjo.com to see more of Julie’s photography.

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make your own

Written By Debra Thesing | Photography By Terri Parthum

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5 6 Go outside and play fetch with your dog and his new toy.

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HEALTHY DOGS PRODUCT GUIDE

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Who wouldn’t like to cross two things off their to-do list at once? Walk the dog and get your work-out in at the same time with the Silverfoot Leash Belt. Clip your current leash to any of their 12 styles, or buy the leash separately to match! $26.00, www.silverfoot.com

Quench your dog’s thirst this summer with DoggiWater (TM).

Available in three flavors, this vitamin water promotes fresh breath, is 100% natural, and is filled with potassium, antioxiants, and electrolytes. Drink up! $1.99 per bottle, www.doggiwater.com

The Cap Ferrat tote captures the essence of the swankiest port on the French Riviera!

This chic and reversible tote holds all your dog’s accessories, plus maybe a few of your own. $125, www.bluebloodliving.com

Summer heat causes hot spots and irritated skin for many a dog. Snook’s Hot Spot herbal dip will help heal and soothe itchy skin using organic rosemary, elderflowers, and comfrey leaf. $6, shop.snookdog.com Poopy Packs from MetroPaws are an earth friendly, fun, and convenient way to clean up after your pooch! A 160-bag designer package is $16.99. 6 & 12 month subscriptions also available at www.metropaws.com

Combat ticks this summer safely and easily with Tick-SR (TM) wipes.

They remove ticks by dissolving the “glue” that bonds them to your dog, and help minimize infection at the puncture point. Available in packs of 10. www.tick-sr.com

Take your dog for a ride around town in style and safety with the Basil Pluto dog basket from AdelineAdeline. $175, www.adelineadeline.com

Hot pavement takes a toll on city dogs. Keep their paws in shape this summer with Deep Cleaning Paw Fizz Tablets from Warren London. $11.95 for package of 12. www.warrenlondon.com

Flux collars and leashes meet the specific needs of big, active dogs in a fashionable, modern way. Weisman Aqua Collar & Walkman Aqua lead, each $64 at www.fluxforpets.com

Thinking of Fido might help you get to a place of Zen when all else fails.

Dog-patterned yoga mat, $37.19, www.karmakiss.net

As the weather heats up and you set out for some water-fun activities, don’t forget a Paws Aboard Doggy Life Jacket for your favorite pooch! Available in 6 unique styles and patterns. A safe dog is a happy dog! $24.99$49.99, www.pawsaboard.com

An extra paw to hold the doody? Yes please! The Fifth Paw® is a patent pending leash attachment that works with virtually all flat-woven leash styles, leaving hands clean and free to enjoy time outside with your dog. www.thefifthpaw.com

The Leanlix low-calorie reward system lets you treat your dog without worrying about his waistline. Available in six droolinducing flavors at $12.00 each, www.leanlix.com

Bring a bit of summer inside with stylish, eco-friendly beds from P.L.A.Y. The Bamboo Lounge Bed is available in two colors and four sizes. Starting at $108, www.petplay.com

Hit the hiking trail with the EzyDog Summit Backpack.

Complete with the awardwinning harness chestplate, waterproof zippers and reflective trim, your dog will be able to help carry the load in comfort. $54-$85, www.ezydog.com

Don’t let stiff joints or pain prevent you and your dog from taking a stroll. The Dogger (TM) makes is easy for older dogs who are still playful at heart to enjoy a day outside. $249.95 CDN, www.dogquality.com

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THE

STAYING COURSE

Therapy Dogs Use Agility To Help Children With Special Health Needs Excel Written By Christine White Photography By Dinko Ibukic

46 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

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hen you think of the occupational therapist/ patient relationship chances are you imagine a typical, mundane routine full of tasks that are often repetitive and sometimes even tedious -- stretching sore muscles, lifting weights, bending and flexing your ligaments in uncomfortable ways to regain mobility -- the list goes on.

Fortunately for children participating in the Abilities Through Agility Program the introduction of therapy dogs into their recovery routine has turned occupational therapy exercises from mundane tasks into exhilarating challenges.

“Dog agility is basically a dog obstacle course,” explained Nicole Shumate, Executive Director of Paws and Effect and founder of Abilities Through Agility. “By guiding their therapy dogs through tunnels, jumps, A-frames and other obstacles in a specific order the children are able to fine-tune their motor skills.”

In addition to improving their motor skills the children also participate in physical, speech and occupational therapy-- all without even knowing they’re actually doing the work.

“Therapies are incorporated into the children’s assignments,” Nicole explained. “Instead of saying ‘We’re going to lift a weight 10 times today,’ we give the children a map and challenge them to set up the agility course. Transferring a one-dimensional sketch of the course into a three-dimensional display in the classroom strengthens the children’s motor planning skills while lifting the equipment substitutes lifting weights.”

Other examples of therapy include having the children remove a dog’s collar to develop fine motor-control in their hands, taking the dogs for a walk down the hallway to get the dogs (and simultaneously the children) warmed up for the agility course and saying the name of a particular piece of equipment to help them learn to pronounce sounds they’re having trouble pronouncing.

“All of these things are therapeutic for the children, we just don’t express it that way to them.” concluded Nicole. “They don’t appreciate that we’re achieving all these goals for them-they just see it as running dogs on an agility course.”

Nicole said the inspiration behind Abilities Through Agility was a newspaper clip about a young boy in Arizona who was using his service dog in dog agility trials. She thought it was a neat idea and wanted to create a similar program in Iowa.

“The conversation actually started in a dog park,” said Nicole of the program’s origins. “I had met a few people there and it happened to be one of them was the lead physical therapist at Child Serve. I had sort of tossed the idea out there and she managed to pull it together in a really short period of time. We were able to launch Abilities Through Agility in less than six months from the fruition of the idea.”

“We’ve seen instances where children are working harder, achieving more progress faster and staying engaged longer because of their therapy dogs”

Children participating in the Abilities Through Agility program range from 7 to 20 years of age. Beyond transforming occupational therapy into a series of fun exercises for the children, the therapy dogs also help their patients stay the course on their road to recovery.

“We’ve seen instances where children are working harder, achieving more progress faster and staying engaged longer because of their therapy dogs,” Nicole summarized. “Having activities that are fun and that don’t seem as medically-oriented has been very helpful for the children.”

Moreover, the children work in groups with other kids and therapy dogs which helps them learn to socialize and develop healthier relationships.

“One of the huge benefits of this program is that it is set up in a way where the children have to learn how to share, cooperate with one another, take turns, and learn not to speak when another person is speaking,” said Nicole. “All of those social skills would not be as easy to teach if you were trying to explain that to a child one-on-one.”

Nicole remembers a particular child with autism who did not have a high regard for personal space. She says his physical therapist would stand an appropriate distance away from the boy while having a conversation with him and passing a ball back and forth as a warm-up exercise for the agility course.

According to Nicole the therapist eventually transitioned the boy’s behavior from passing a ball to her, to blowing a kiss to his

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therapy dog who was standing at an appropriate conversational distance.

“He couldn’t blow the kiss too far and he couldn’t bring it too close or it would drop but if he blew the kiss just right the therapy dog would do an air bark and he would catch it,” explained Nicole. “What was really neat is over a long period of time if he was too close to someone in a conversation you could very politely ask him ‘what’s the average distance you need to be from your therapy dog so that you would be able to blow kisses to him’ and he was able to demonstrate it.”

Each therapy dog undergoes clicker training (costing approximately $500) through a local training facility, K-9 Craze, and each dog-owner must go through a Pet Partner program (which usually costs $300-$400) that provides liability insurance.

Volunteers are expected to stay with the program for at least a year which Nicole says is an integral part of her program’s success since working in a foursome — the dog, the child, the therapist and the pet partner — can become cumbersome for the children.

“We don’t really see excellent results until a child has been partnered with a dog for a least 10 or 20 weeks,” explained Nicole. “It takes a while to be able to peel back some of those other relationships so that ultimately what you have is the dog and the child working together in a way that’s beneficial to both.”

After developing Abilities through Agility in Iowa, Nicole would like to see the program become a national phenomenon with chapters throughout the country. Her wishes are very possible, largely in part to Child Serve’s ability to incorporate Abilities Through Agility into the children’s insurance coverage.

“It’s a truly unique feature in animal assisted therapy — it merely takes the program to a professional level,” explained Nicole. “People are starting to see animal-assisted interactions as a true therapeutic mode.”

Nicole believes the program’s pillars of success are a strong foundation of committed staff, volunteers and of course, therapy dogs.

48 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

“I think with any new program there are so many things that are frequently changed, modified and altered as you explore different means of making that program a success,” explained Nicole. “The willingness of our staff, the volunteers and the dogs to constantly take on another modification, another change is inspiring and it’s neat to see our program finally look mature.”

According to Nicole, another pillar of success for her Abilities Through Agility program has been the collaborative relationships she has developed over the years with local dog hospitals and training facilities.

“Our program rides on the fact that we have some incredible relationships with K-9 Craze and Child Serve,” Nicole said.

“Without those partnerships this program wouldn’t exist. It’s definitely a collaborative effort. If people were looking to build a program like ours in their own area, building strong relationships with these organizations are critical.”

Last, but certainly not least, Nicole is pleased by the amount of support Abilities Through Agility has received from parents who appreciate its ability to add some joy and relief to an otherwise difficult situation.

“It is neat for therapists, volunteers and parents to witness the children smile and laugh even though their circumstances may be really, really challenging. I think the parents appreciate that. Their children have to complete their therapy one way or another and their parents don’t want the circumstances to be any more difficult than they are inherently.” n

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Carob is not only low in calories, but it’s also caffeine free. With nutrients such as B12 for improved appetite, vitamin A and a dose of protein this healthy alternative to chocolate will keep your dog’s coat shiny, his muscles strong and will keep him active all day.

Written By: Christine White Photo By: Jessica Luce Photography 50 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

We all know most dogs love chocolate and would gladly eat some if presented with the opportunity.

What you may not know, however is chocolate contains theobromine, the bitter alkaloid of the coca plant which is why he’s unable to properly digest the substance. According to the ASPCA a dog who injests chocolate may experience vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death (www.aspca.org). Large doses of dark or baking chocolate are the most lethal to your pet.

Plain Yogurt Plain, low fat yogurt provides an ample source of protein and calcium for your dog. The active bacteria (or probiotics) in yogurt help your dog with digestion. Feeling adventurous? Check out Cool Treats for Dogs. Their frozen yogurt for dogs is certified kosher, made with plain, fat-free yogurt and excludes artificial sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup, preservatives and added sugar. With flavors like Banana Peanut Barker and Choc ‘O’ Not, how can you resist?

Apples or Bananas Apples contain immune-strengthening vitamin-C, ample fiber to aid your dog with digestion and vitamin A to stimulate growth and keep your dog’s coat healthy. You may also feed your dog bananas with confidence.

Vanilla Ice Cream According to WebMD canines are just as susceptible to diabetes as their owners. If your dog is urinating frequently, drinking more water than usual or exhibiting unexplained weightloss, WebMD tells us he or she may have an early onset of diabetes.

In the long-run, WebMD states diabetes can lead to enlarged livers, increased susceptibility to infections and severe neurological problems in our dogs if left untreated.

Grapes or Raisins According to the ASPCA, although the toxic substance within grapes and raisins is unknown, these fruits can cause kidney failure and thus should not be given to your pet. (www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/ people-foods.aspx)

Bananas contain an ample amount of vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese and folate. They’re also packed with protein and soluble carbohydrates which will energize your dog.

Carrots Carrots are a sweet, crunchy, low-fat alternative to dog treats. They’re also a rich source of beta-carotene (B-Carotene), an antioxidant which protects against cell-damage, leads to a heightened immune-response and improved reproductive function. B-Carotene also helps our bodies, as well as our dog’s, produce vitamin A which helps with improved vision and eyesight.

High Fat Dog Treats Have you checked the label of your dog’s favorite treats lately? Dog treats often contain unhealthy preservatives, additives and depending on the brand, a lot of excess calories and fat. While not necessarily toxic for your dog, excess fat and calories can lead to obesity which has been linked to a number of health complications like high blood-pressure, high cholesterol and bone and joint problems.

www.pupculturemagazine.com | 51

Written & Photographed by Laura Kinsey

G

enerally speaking, pet owners are busy people. We juggle professional responsibilities with personal obligations. We spend time maintaining and nurturing relationships with some combination of kids, significant others, friends, and extended family. We have to factor in time for commuting, errands, and a bunch of other things that are sometimes less than thrilling. If you have a dog, you can count on adding three to four daily walks into that mix, plus play time, feeding, and remembering to have your pup groomed and bathed every once in a while. Depending on the breed, this might be something you have to deal with as often as once or twice a month. At any rate, with everything happening in the average person’s life, it can be easy to shuffle some of these pet care responsibilities into the “chore” category.

I feel guilty about not spending enough time with Hugo lately; not only is he feeling blue from lack of attention, but he’s desperate for a haircut and his wardrobe and toy selection need updating, too. I wondered - could I turn these dog-centric errands with him into a spa-day of sorts that we could both enjoy? I packed up his carrier and collapsible water bowl and decided to find out. Follow along to see how we combined errands and sightseeing with quality time. Then head on over to the Pup Culture Facebook page and let us know how you and your pup like to spend time together!

Saturday, 10:30 Hugo and I hop on the East River Ferry, and twenty minutes later arrive at The Salty Paw. Located along Manhattan’s historic waterfront, this FiDi institution was given the “City’s Best” award for Best Pet Culture by AOL in 2010, and they have a reputation for taking excellent care of their four-legged neighbors. With warmer weather approaching, Hugo opted for a puppy cut with a Mohawk-effect down the back, for he is 52 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

both practical and edgy. His paws are in rough shape, and after a quick consultation, I agree that he needs a deep cleaning paw soak from Warren London.

I leave him in the capable hands of top groomer May Pilan and head out. Since I know Hugo is having his paws soaked and nails trimmed, I decide to do the same. But I strike out – there doesn’t seem to be a nail salon in the immediate vicinity, and when I walk by Barbarini Alimentari, I realize how hungry I am. So I skip the manicure and opt for a late lunch instead.

Saturday, 12:30pm I return to The Salty Paw to pick up my now stylish dog. I think he looks better than me! The Mohawk is great, and his shorter fur will be great for when we’re at the beach in a few weeks. The paw soak really brightened up the fur around his feet and his paw pads are clean and soft.

Saturday, 1pm

Poochi Couture in bright red. Next we head for the toy section to find a new knitted toy from Pet Fly. He’s an older dog with about half of his teeth left, and these are perfect for him. But his old knit pig is filthy and only has two legs left, so it’s definitely time for a replacement. He seems to like the bunny this time, so we add it to the pile. Next I check out their section of supplements and am set to buy a digestive aid in pill form when a member of the sales staff helpfully points out that the same item is available in soft treat form. Perfect!

Saturday 2:30pm After a short walk, we’re home…. After playing with the new bunny for a few minutes, Hugo is down for a nap. It’s been a long day for him, but I can tell he’s cool and comfortable with his new haircut and I think he enjoyed being out on the boat and in the sunshine. I still need to book his vet appointment to make sure he gets all the appropriate summer vaccines and flea & tick medicine… but he doesn’t need to know about this quite yet.

Happy Summer!

We board the ferry and head home to Williamsburg so that we can stop by PS9, a great local pet shop. On the quick 10-minute ride, we’re treated to views of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, and the lower Manhattan skyline. I goof around trying to get cute pictures of Hugo with the bridges in the background. He doesn’t really know what I’m up to, but he likes the attention and the feeling of the wind in his ears.

Saturday 1:15pm We arrive at PS9 to get our shop on! This store has a great selection of toys, treats, and accessories. Hugo’s leash has started to look kind of dingy, so I pick out a new one from

Laura & Hugo Laura Kinsey is the owner of Sam & Tasha, a small line of dog dresses, coats and accessories sold nationwide. Obsessed with design in all it’s forms since receiving a Christmas present of furniture templates and tracing paper as a kid, she worked for ten years as an interior designer before studying Textile Development at The Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. This led to a pet fashion design class, and the rest is history.

She launched the company’s first product line in 2010 and stays connected to the industry attending trade shows and trunk shows all over the country.

Laura lives in Brooklyn, New York with her 10 lb. Maltese rescue dog and occasional muse, Hugo. =

www.pupculturemagazine.com | 53

Written by Elaine Webster

A

s a professional pet sitter I get to meet and bond with so many wonderful dogs in my community. Recently, however, I’ve had several out of town requests for my services, which allows me to have adventures with other dogs in different states. One of those adventures was in January in New Port Richey, Florida, where I traveled to take care of four little dogs - a blind Maltese named Sukie, a deaf Chihuahua named Emma and two adorable Yorkies, Abby and Brie. All four were between the ages of 12 to 14 years old and each had their own unique personality. The next eight days would prove to be very entertaining as I learned the routines of these four adorable, little old ladies and their neighborhood friends, who, as I found out after I got there, I would also be caring for. These friends were not other dogs, but a few of the neighborhood wood storks and egrets who came by every day to be fed. I found out these birds actually come back every year a few days before the owners arrive for the winter and wait for their return in eager anticipation of being fed hot dogs. This hog dog vacation had become an instinctual habit for the birds and they weren’t shy about asking to be fed. I remember one wood stork in particular who got my attention one day by knocking on the screen door with his long bill and quickly flew up on the nearby table to catch a hot dog I threw his way.

Whenever I took the dogs outside, I’d see the birds relaxing around the yard standing on one leg looking like pink flamingo statues and I wondered if the four dogs would get along with them, but they just sniffed their way along the sandy soil wandering through the long legs of the wood storks standing nearby. Neither birds nor dogs paid attention to each other as they all went on their way.

Keeping track of four little dogs, as they headed in different directions, kept me hopping. Sukie would head for the road and Brie ran after the neighbor’s cat or whatever else caught her attention. And in the middle of the night, when they all needed to go out, it really became a challenge. As each one finished her business, I’d scoop them up until they were safely back inside.

54 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

And just as they were all settled down, another would decide they had to go out and the whole process started over again.

A few minutes before dinner time each night, Brie would sit in front of me and stare until I got the message to feed her. She and Emma would wait on the rug in the kitchen for their bowl to appear before them. Sukie obviously couldn’t see dinner was coming out, but could hear the activity. She wandered into her position next to Abby in the middle of the living room rug where they waited for their bowls. Brie also gave me her stare when it was time for their snacks every night around 8:00 pm.

They were experts at practicing teamwork and it didn’t take them long to train me to their routine.

They also worked well together in other ways, like when I applied Brie’s eye drops every morning. The other three dogs sat in a circle beneath the chair she was in and waited, knowing they would all receive a treat when I rewarded Brie.

Before they left, the owners told me one of the dogs’ favorite things to do was take a ride in the golf cart while they are driven all throughout the neighborhood. She said they all sit in a neat little row on the seat and look like they are having the greatest time. So one day I grabbed the keys to go outside and all four lined up by the golf cart ready to go for a joy ride. They looked so cute and confident I would take them, while waiting patiently for me to lift them into the seat one by one.

After eight days, my time had come to an end. The owners returned from their cruise and it was time for me to fly home.

I had grown very attached to these dogs and was sad our time together was over. I sat on the floor to say good-bye and was surrounded by my small furry ladies, each smothering me with wet kisses. Their little butts wagged and I just knew each one was wearing a smile. n Elaine Webster is the author of three books: Seeking Balance, Grandma’s in the Basement and Dawn Dancing and is currently working on her next book. Besides an author, Elaine has also been a pre-school teacher and artist. One of her biggest passions, however, is animals, and she is the owner of Elaine’s Pet Sitting: The Furry Godmother for Your Pets in Rochester, NY. Elaine has been a pet sitter for 20 years and loves getting to know and taking care of so many different dogs and cats.

MAGAZINE

PUPCULTURE

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ASK THE...

VETERINARIAN

EDITOR’S NOTE

Dr. Linda A. Banks is currently the director at Stone Ridge Veterinary Hospital.

She has been practicing veterinary medicine in Rochester, NY for more than 20 years.

: n o i t s e u Q

se she her becau r fo d a b so ying I just feel om underl fr allergies. n re e e s v ri e a s m lso ’s driving uffers fro es have a ame it!) It My dog s dical issu n e u m o r y e -th s oultry, ction itching. O out that p yeast infe d , s n n ich she u o can’t stop fo ti c e otato, wh and w ar infe p s t (e d e o ll e e w fo s w g s nd switchin owing allergies a hitefish a have tried started sh er on a w e e h h W e s ! v y o a z h tw ra did ated r or us both c good. We fter a yea lso elimin a o a n n e e v re d a a d h u b e s W fa d lam ergy ula food. then all o salmon an ison form sen her all ll on and n s e e le w V a y lp e ll n h a o re really ow she is I can do to was doing ut what is gain, so n anything a o s re g e n m ri th to u p g Is m fi t. itching? allergy sy m her die relief and lieve the her some nd soy fro re a g to in rn o o iv d c g n t, a to all whea ything I c me close finally co is there an , d e n a m s ti n m a e sympto -Bethany ? In the m ymptoms isco, CA s r e h g in San Franc caus

Dear Pup

Culture,

I’m so sorry your poor girl is having such a hard time, but it sounds like you are committed to getting to the bottom of her problems to help her feel better.

True allergies can be very difficult to diagnose because many dogs can be allergic to multiple things. The first thing I’d recommend doing is to make sure you are working with your veterinarian to determine what is truly going on. Determining what an animal is allergic to in their food can be a daunting task, as it could be almost any ingredient, or multiple ingredients, in the food; it could be something in her treats or even in her medications; it could also be something in the environment, or a combination of food and environmental allergens. Working with your vet for guidance and to help diagnose other underlying causes of her itchiness will give you the best chances of having success.

It is very important to have your dog examined to see if she has developed any underlying problems that would make her itchiness suddenly increase. Secondary skin infections, external parasites (such as fleas or mites), problems with her thyroid, adrenal glands, diabetes and disorders of her immune system can all make skin disorders worse. Your veterinarian may suggest performing skin scrapes or blood tests and possibly may even make a referral to a veterinary dermatologist to help diagnose what else may be going on. Once all other medical conditions are ruled out and/or treated, you can then begin the discussion of how best to manage the allergy and subsequent itchiness if it is still present.

Strict dietary control is the best way to manage a food allergy once it has been diagnosed and this means reading the labels of all potential food sources including snacks, table foods and medications (including oral monthly flea and heartworm control products). There are many ingredients in over-the-counter supplements that can contribute to allergic flare ups. Dogs can be exposed to foods they find in the yard (brought in by squirrels, birds and other wildlife or stray animals) that you had no idea they’d eaten.

Medical management of your dog’s itch is possible through the use of many different oral (anti-inflammatories, antihistamines and immune suppressants) and topical (medicated shampoos, conditioners and sprays) products.

You and your veterinarian can decide together which combinations of products Have a question for our panel of experts? Email works best for your lifestyle, budget and needs. Good luck! info@pupculturemagazine.com for a chance to get some expert advice in our next issue!

Dr. Linda A. Banks

Stoneridge Veterinary Hospital • Rochester, NY

56 | PUPCULTURE APRIL/MAY

e

425.577.1917 | baileyandbanjo.com

WACKYwalk’r: Neon Pink Suburban-Style Leash Written By Carol Giotto| Photo By Don Crumb

The WACKYwalk’r leash has three basic parts which include a handle, a section of reinforced, 100% natural rubber tubing and a second handle, which is located where the leash attaches to your dog’s collar. The idea is that tubing enables the leash to stretch, relieving the stress on both you and your pet while encouraging your dog not to pull. The leash comes in two designs - one for city and one for suburban walking environments, and they are made for dogs from 1 to 200 pounds. They come in a variety of colors and each color supports a specific charity. Four percent of the sale of the product goes to the cause for that corresponding color. The leash I tried was pink, which is aligned with the Best Friends Animal Society.

I have English Mastiffs that weigh between 145 and 185 pounds. Due to their weight and size, I do not use any type of flexi-lead on my dogs. My dogs are actually relatively good on leash, however, they occasionally do get excited and run to the end of the leash and practically yank my arm out of the socket.

When I first put the WACKYwalk’r leash on them, I didn’t trust that it wasn’t going to stretch and snap. I knew it was reinforced, but I just didn’t trust it. The first few times I used it, I put a second leash on them as backup. After a couple of uses, it seemed like it would hold their weight, so I decided to put it to the test. I got my 185 pound boy running and the leash stretched quite a bit. In fact it did correct him and he stopped. What I didn’t anticipate, however, is because I weigh less than my dog the leash actually flung me forward like a slingshot. That aside, this leash really does seem to do what the company says. In normal walking, when my dog hit the end of the leash, they seemed to react to the tension and correct themselves without my arm getting yanked out of the socket.

The leash comes in two lengths. I tried out the three foot leash that stretches to six feet. The WACKYwalk’r urban is one-and-a half feet and stretches to three feet. I think I might be more comfortable walking my dogs on the urban length even though I live in the suburbs. One thing I haven’t quite gotten used to is not having the ability to pull my dog back or pull them off something. While the second handle allows you to hold your dog close if needed, the problem I had was if the leash was fully stretched out to six feet, you can’t grab that handle. We walk in our neighborhood quite a bit and when we had to cross a road I found I needed to prepare very differently than with a regular leash.

I’m assuming that the urban length would work better in this situation.

I think there are two groups of people: people who use flexi-type leashes and people who don’t. I happen to fall into the second category.

Overall though, I liked the fact that my shoulder didn’t get jerked so hard. I can foresee using this leash when we are out hiking or walking where my dogs can have more freedom to stretch out a bit and where I don’t feel that I need to have as much control over them. If you currently use a flexi-type lead, I think you will really enjoy this product; I would choose this over a flexi-type lead any day. However, if you have an extra large dog or walk a lot where you need to maintain closer control over your dog, you should consider trying the shorter, urban version of this leash.

Photo Provided By WACKYwalk’r

Learn more about WACKYwalk’r at: 58 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

www.wackywalkr.com

Pet Portraits Marion Romig, Professional Artist Turn a favorite photo of your loving pet into an original work of art, prices starting as low as $90*. Do you want to do it yourself? I can teach you: visit www.marionromig.com.

Marion Romig, Professional Colored Pencil Artist 85 White Rabbit Trail Rochester, NY 14612 585-392-8235 *5� x 7� finished piece ready for framing.

CLOUD K9: Paw Print Locket, Winged Angel Pin and Cuff Bracelet Written By Christine White | Photography By Terri Parthum When I discovered Cloud K9’s collection of vintage dog-themed jewelry I was smitten. The collection is eye-catching, beautiful and involves dogs; how could I resist?

As stated on Cloud K9’s website, cloudk9.com, your jewelry is an exclusive piece of wearable art that is handcrafted, copyrighted and breedspecific depending on your preference. The jewelry is a great way to accessorize your favorite outfit while paying tribute to your beloved canine friend. With over 80 dog breeds to choose from there’s bound to be something for everyone on Cloud K9.

My favorite piece of Cloud K9 Jewelry is the paw-print locket. The locket is 1.25 inch in diameter, made of brass and is lacquered to protect the finish. It comes with either an 18 inch or 24 inch chain depending on your preference. I had the opportunity to wear the paw print locket, complete with a photo of my dog Bailey for about two months before writing this product review. It was a great compliment to my favorite black-dress and added a bit of zing and sentimentality to my outfit.

With any product there is always room for improvement. I believe consumers would be receptive to the option of choosing between the thicker dog-like chain that currently comes with the locket and a more eloquent chain that is thinner and less bulky. In doing so more attention would be paid to the locket, which would become the center of an on-looker’s focus.

I also had the opportunity to review Cloud K9’s pet loss jewelry which may feature anything from a dog to a cat, horse, bird or rabbit. I reviewed the Winged Standing Greyhound Angel Pin which is 1.5 inches by 1.25 inches. The greyhound’s features are distinct and clearly defined. He is portrayed in an elegant, statuesque position signifying both his loyalty and dignity, and his angel wings signify the personal relationships we all have with our dogs who, according to many people, are like their guardian angels. Topped off with a brass finish the pin has an antique look which to me symbolizes the authenticity of our dogs and makes the statement that our love for them is timeless. I would have prefered if the brass for the pin was a bit thicker, however, altogether this pin is sure to please even the most picky pet lover.

The final piece of jewelry I reviewed was the Cocker Spaniel Cuff Bracelet which is also made of brass and is 1 inch wide and 7 inches total in circumference. Much like the angel pin the bracelet has an antique finish which again, symbolizes the timeless love between us and our dogs. While the bracelet is beautiful, eye catching and stylish, according to their website it is not designed for either very small or oversized wrists. The circumference is about 7 inches total (i.e., 6 inches for the bracelet with about a 1 inch gap to slip the bracelet onto your wrist).

My only concern with this particular piece of jewelry is the possibility of the brass becoming deformed if you were to take it on and off on a regular basis.

Cloud K9 also features a variety of other gifts for dog-lovers including Dog Cookie Cutters and Dog Biscuit Cookbooks.

Visit www.cloudk9.com to view all the products Cloud K9 has to offer.

60 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

Happy Endings A Destination Pets Helping People Protecting Animals

56 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

THE PUPCULTURE LIST

10

REASONS Why You Should Exercise With Your Dog Written By Christine White

Photo By Bailey & Banjo Pet Photography

1. You’ll never have to worry about looking foolish in front of him.

2. He’s ready to go, rain or shine, anytime.

3. He’ll never bail on you last minute.

4. If you start having doubts about exercising you won’t be able to say no to that puppy face.

5. Go at your own pace, fast or slow, your dog

doesn’t mind. He’s just happy to be outside.

6. If you’re winded by mile one and start panting he’s not going to judge you.

7. If your dog decides to take a bathroom break you can rest too, guilt-free.

8. You don’t have to be alone. You’ll always have a

workout buddy.

9. Enjoy a moment of peace and quiet—your dog doesn’t expect you to talk back.

10. He’s your biggest fan and always will be.

64 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

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Baldwin Park Animal Care Center of Baldwin Park, California is proud to introduce Siouxsie, their most eligible bachelorette. If you feel a spark and would like to make a “love connection” with Siouxsie please contact the Baldwin Park Animal Care Center at 626.962.3577, visit their website at www.animalcare.lacounty.gov to arrange a date. Visit their facebook page at Facebook.com/BaldwinParkShelter to see more eligible bachelors and bachelorettes.

BROWN-EYED BEAUTY LOOKING FOR LOVE

SIOUXSIE Hi my name is Siouxsie and I’m looking for a family to love.

I’m a sweet pit bull mix with brown eyes who’s almost one year old. The people at the shelter say I’m very lovable and in “puppy mode”. I don’t know what that means, all I know is I like to play a lot and give kisses. I’m a real people puppy.

I had a couple minor health challenges when they found me, but they say I’m healing nicely now and just need a stable home with some TLC. If you’re looking for a good dog, who’s lots of fun and gives lots of love, then I’m the one for you.

WE’VE MADE OUR LOVE CONNECTION, HAVE YOU MADE YOURS?

JILL

JANE

JAMESON

GEM

ADOPTED 5.21.12

ADOPTED 5.21.12

ADOPTED 5.24.12

ADOPTED 5.28.12

Photography By Pawmazing Photography 66 | PUPCULTURE JUNE/JULY

IT CAN HAPPEN SOONER THAN YOU THINK .

50% of all pets born are accidents. Spaying or neutering your pet at 4 months can prevent those accidents and help save millions of dogs and cats from being killed in shelters each year.

PREVENT MORE. FIX AT MONTH FOUR.

fixatfour.com