Four Paws Magazine - February/March 2012

February/March 2012

The

2012

Bull FourPPitws Issue

south florida’s animal rescue magazine

FourP ws FourP ws south florida’s animal rescue magazine

Rescue Heroes:

Dahlia Canes

Bully Breed Adoption Success Stories

south florida’s animal rescue magazine

Along Comes Boudica

By Cheryl Simone-Miller

THOSE WHO KNOW ME know my family had a very sad experience with a Bull Terrier mix we adopted from Miami Dade Animal Services in early March 2011. It was right before the disease crisis.

Wabi-Sabi lived with us just 10 days before she died in my arms on the 15th.

Some people might have been afraid of going through it all again. In fact, WE were afraid of adopting and losing another dog to disease that runs rampant in a shelter setting. Reports of distemper, parvo, coronavirus and strep zoo were swirling about when we saw a picture of a dog named Mia at MDAS on Facebook.

We took the leap and, on the 25th, we went to pick her up. She was listed as a mixed terrier.

Whatever that mix is, there’s certainly some pit bull in there. When we got to MDAS, she was in a run with another dog. They seemed to get along, so that was a good sign. Mia was estimated to be under 2 years old. It was clear she had a litter at some point…but as is the case with most shelter pets, we had no idea what her history was.

We changed Mia’s name to Boudica…naming her after the Irish warrior princess who held off the Roman army with a small force. When we brought

her home, I waited outside with her while my husband went inside to get our 5-year-old APBT, Omega. Omega is as good natured and laid back as a dog can be, but Boudica growled and lunged as soon as she caught sight of Omega. My heart sank…thinking we might be dealing with some dog aggression, possibly towards other pit bulls due to whatever Bou’s past experiences were.

Thankfully, my husband is some kind of magic pit bull whisperer, so it only took a few hours for Boudica to learn Omega was not only a potential friend, but top dog in our house.

We went through plenty of early fear with Boudica. She was tested for a wide range of disease.

While she managed to avoid distemper and strep zoo, she was carrying a host of other nasty bugs.

We paid for expensive tests, numerous vet visits and boatloads of medication. The vet tech took one look at Boudica and said she’s about as pure bred pit bull as he’s ever seen. He assured us she’d be fine…that she was a fighter. Yet, I still worried like a mom does.

It took some time for Boudica to relax…to learn she was safe and with her forever family…to realize we are the kind of family that showers love and attention. As every month passed, we watched bits of her personality come out as she relaxed more and more.

Boudica is a “groomer,” so she loves to lick our older APBT, Omega…and any of us who sit still long enough. She’ll give you her cheek for a kiss…then, in European fashion, give you the other cheek for another peck. Whatever her past experiences were, she’s a bundle of love. We often wonder how someone could give her up. When we brought a 16-pound rat terrier/Chihuahua mix named Siouxsie into the pack, we had our initial growls…but now they are as thick as thieves. It makes my heart sing to see Boudica pull back her obviously enormous strength to let little Siouxsie get the upper hand while they play wrestle and run around the house.

As we inch up on Boudica being part of the family for a whole year, we can’t imagine our life without her. She’s the perfect example of how bully breeds in shelters deserve a second chance.

For more information on what you should know before you adopt a shelter bully breed, visit: http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/dogfighting/ten-tips-for-adopting-a-pit-bull.aspx http://www.realpitbull.com/rightbreed.html

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FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

CONTENTS

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012 • VOLUME 1 • NO 4

8 10 14 16 18 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 39 46 48 51

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Peaceful Demonstration Against BSL The “Ruff” Side of Las Olas End the Pit Bull Ban McDonald’s Free Publicity at the Expense of Pit Bulls Patrick the Pit Bull Home for Christmas: Hoyt’s Story

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Four Paws Asks Rescue Heroes…Dahlia Canes For the Love of Omega The Condemnation of Our Best Friend Social Media for Pit Bull Lovers Brewster, Colorado or Bust!

Who Should Fear Whom?

38

South Florida Adoptables Pit Bulls & Hollywood Rescue Partners Animal Rescue Groups Furry Facts

On cover, painting of “Smokey The Pitbull” by Thomas Athanasiou of Tommy Pop Art (www.tommypopart.com & www.pitbullshirt.com) (All rights reserved by Tommy Pop Art and Thomas Athanasiou. Absolutely no painting created by Tommy Pop Art or Thomas Athanasiou may be reprinted or reproduced in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, via photocopying or otherwise, without the full written consent of the artist.)

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Cheryl Simone-Miller PUBLISHER/ART DIRECTOR Dani Dorsey

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CONTRIBUTYING WRITERS Charelle Burgess Dahlia Canes Lois Crockett Shari Forst Dan Meagher Brad Miller Sarah Seckman Our facebook family.

FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

PO Box 8200 Coral Springs, FL 33075 954.882.5456 www.fourpawsmagazine.org Four Paws Magazine will not be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. The publisher accepts no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the advertisers. Ads in this magazine are not intended as an offer where prohibited by state laws.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

7

Peaceful Demonstration Against Breed Specific Legislation in Miami-Dade County On Sunday, February 12th, 2012 bull breed owners, lovers and supporters gathered on Bird Road in Miami in front of Tropical Park for a peaceful demonstration calling for the end of Breed Specific Legislation in the county. BSL outlaws the ownership of American Pit Bull Terriers. Not only does this break apart families and make some dog owners unable to live in Miami-Dade, it jeopardizes the lives of countless pit bulls and pit bull mixes that find themselves at Miami Dade Animal Services. It also costs the county an unproductive $3,000,000 a year. For more information, visit http://www.unitedagainstbsl.org/ Photo credit: Ginger Prince Monteleone

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FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

9

The

“Ruff” Side of

WE’VE ALL SEEN IT: the women with their tea-cup pooch in tow a la handbag. They’re everywhere, it seems- restaurants, movie theaters, airplanes, shopping malls. Well, I like to have fun just as much as the rest of ‘em, and my dog won’t be fitting into a handbag any time soon. Jack is my year old, 55 pound Siberian Husky and he loves being out on the town. I take him anywhere I can, and lately that list of locations has been growing. When we’re out, we meet all kinds of new friends, furry and not, who love having fun together. Most of them are surprised to hear there are so many dog-friendly places in South Florida.

One of the first places I tell people about is Las Olas Boulevard. They really do a great job of making dogs, of all sizes and breeds, feel welcome. Most of the restaurants and shops not only allow dogs, but provide drinking water and lots of friendly pats to our furry friends. While out on Las Olas, you might meet Samantha, an American Eskimo dog. She accompanies her mommy on most outdoor dining adventures and is a regular at La Bonne Crepe. She has even been known to order her own lunch. When Samantha dines out at La Bonne, she is greeted

10 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

with a water bowl all her own and a friendly wait staff. She lays under the table awaiting any scraps that may fall, although the food is so good mommy rarely shares. Fellow diners are surprised at Samantha’s good behavior. Johnathan Mosby, a Fort Lauderdale native said he “wished his dog would behave that well so (he) could bring him out to Las Olas.” La Bonne Crepe is one of the many restaurants that welcome pooches to dine with their owners. The Cheesecake Factory and the Floridian are some other popular spots. In fact, on the weekends, you can find countless pooches at the Floridian, although the tables outside are rather small and you should make sure your dog is friendly with others, people and pets, before you bring her along.

After you’ve fueled up, take a stroll along the strip and stop in at a few stores for some shopping. Lots of the boutique shops allow dogs to enter, as long as they don’t create a disturbance to fellow customers. Some of these places include Tommy Bahama, Ja Tem Boutique, and American Soul. Leonardo, although a small Bichon Frise, likes that he’s able to get out of his mommy’s bag. His family walked

One of the first places I tell people about is Las Olas Boulevard. They really do a great job of making dogs, of all sizes and breeds, feel welcome.

Most of the restaurants and shops not only allow dogs, but provide drinking water and lots of friendly pats to our furry friends.

The “Ruff � Side of Las Olas continues on page 12 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

11

The “Ruff ” Side of Las Olas continued from page 11

along the boulevard pushing his doggy stroller, but he preferred to walk, soaking up the friendly atmosphere of Las Olas. “Even people with small dogs like being able to let their dog loose. Dogs don’t want to be cooped up in some lady’s pocket book all the time. They want to smell and be a part of the action.” said Will Hunter, a passerby and lover of larger breeds. He said he “didn’t know Las Olas was so dog-friendly, and (he) can’t wait to come back with his American bulldog mix.”

Although most of Las Olas is extremely welcoming to dogs and their owners, there are some places that only allow service animals, like Mangos.

Manager Paul Wagner said that although he knows they are one of very few restaurants who don’t allow dogs, they “chose to be that way and have no plans to change their pet policy in the future.” Make sure before you enter any establishment, you say a friendly “hello” and ask if you and your dog may enter. Always remember to bring along a way to dispose of your pet’s waste, and be kind to others.

If more pet owners are kind and courteous while out on the town, we may have more locations to choose from. Which will give us at the Dog’s Guide more to write about!

12 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

Q U I C K FA C T S DOG FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS: Big City Tavern Cheesecake Factory Cj’s Cafe Gran Forno Golden Lyon Bar and Indigo at the Riverside Hotel Johnny V’s La Bonne Crepe Le Cafe de Paris Mancini’s Italian Restaurant SoLita Starbucks The Floridian Timpano’s Italian Chophouse Wild East Asian Bistro Yolo *Restaurant list courtesy of lasolasboulevard.com

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Help “Slater” Buehrle Save Pets in Miami

End the Pit Bull Ban! SIGN THIS PETITION Signatures: 14,093 out of 15,000 Petitioning: The FL State Senate (+ 1 other) Created By: Jamie Buehrle, Southwest Ranches, FL

Why This Is Important http://www.change.org/petitions/helpslater-buehrle-save-pets-in-miami-endthe-pit-bull-ban?utm_medium=email&utm_ source=action_alert Photo credit: Tails Magazine

WHEN MY HUSBAND, MARK, became the new pitcher for the Miami Marlins, we were excited to move our family down to Florida and join our team's community.

But then we found out our family wasn't welcome in Miami-Dade County, because one of our rescued dogs, Slater, is a pit bull. We were lucky enough to be able to afford to buy a house outside of Miami-Dade County so we could keep Slater. Many families aren't as fortunate, and they love their dogs just as much.

Because of an archaic exemption in state law, Miami-Dade County is the only county in the entire state permitted to engage in canine profiling. Florida state legislators Representative Carlos Trujillo and Senator Jim Norman are leading an effort, with the help of Best Friends Animal Society, to right this injustice and to repeal the portion of the Florida statute that allows Miami-Dade to kill dogs simply because of their appearance.

No other county in Florida is allowed such unmitigated power over people’s pets. It is time that

14 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

Miamians again enjoy the same right that citizens in Florida’s 66 other counties have.

Despite being over 20 years old, Miami’s canine profiling still causes the needless, senseless and unjustified confiscation and killing of hundreds of innocent dogs every year, proving that breed discrimination does not make communities safer, and is impossible to enforce. It’s also a waste of tax dollars. Nowhere else in Florida can certain breeds of dogs be summarily killed simply because of their appearance.

It is time to put an end, once and for all, to canine discrimination in Florida and make the Sunshine State a model of humane public policy. Please join me, Mark and our family in standing up for Slater and the dogs Miami-Dade. Help save lives and keep families together by supporting the legislation that will repeal Miami's inhumane breed-discriminatory law.

Also, check out our video with Best Friends Animal Society to Save Florida's Dogs: http:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCN86YWNfwc&fea ture=relmfu

p Canine o t S o T 2 32 ves 997/SB 1 d Save Li n a e d a Pass HB D iin Miam Profiling

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Credit to Best Friends Animal Society and prweb.com Go online to http://www.change.org/ petitions/help-slater-buehrle-save-petsin-miami-end-the-pit-bull-ban?utm_ medium=email&utm_source=action_alert and send a copy of this letter

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15

McDonald’s FREE Publicity at the Expense of

Pit Bulls

By Lois Crockett A recent McDonald’s ad, aired on radio in the Kansas City area, a secondary market at best, touted their menu item “Chicken McBites” by comparing it as preferable to more risky endeavors: shaving your head, naming your son Sue, petting a stray pit bull and sharing your Facebook password with your friends. The ad clearly emphasizes, “stray” pit bull.

A public hue and cry ensued over the stereotyping of pit bulls as “dangerous,” “vicious,” and “risky” animals and gave McDonald’s the kind of free publicity that hasn’t been seen since the “Nuke ‘em” ad from Jack-in-the-Box back in the 1970’s. McDonald’s move has sparked a massive flame war on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other mass media venues, including major network television and radio news shows. The cost to McDonald’s: a mere bag of shells – they pulled the ads (which means they don’t have to pay for them anymore, either) and proffered this apology which is about as bland as their McBites: “We apologize for running a local Photo credit: Ginger Monteleone 16 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

ad insensitive in its mention of pit bulls. We didn’t mean to offend anyone and the ad is being pulled.”

What was really risky was McDonald’s sneaking the ad into a smaller market and letting nature take its course.

They might tick off; in order: people with shaved heads, usually young toughs who can take pretty good care of themselves on the street and don’t give a hoot what you say about them, they’ll just flip you the bird or pound you down into a manhole cover, whichever appeals to their mood of the moment…or old men tired of their tired old comb-overs; boys named Sue – since the old Johnny Cash song in the 1960’s, how many boys named “Sue” have YOU actually come across; pit bull owners, pit bull lovers and pit bull rescuers – a tenacious breed indeed; or morons who would freely share their Facebook password with their friends, hardly a likely scenario.

So the pit bull people win – 8,200 of them according to the Huffington Post. They spread the word, named names, named products,

kept spinning the tale all the while until at least one or two people were sparked to try the little snippets of chickens coated in batter, deep fried in grease and served with processed sauces fresh from the lab. So the ad backfired – McD’s had to pull it. What they gleaned in free publicity is rivaled by any national major market ad campaign and it was all free, courtesy of the pit bull enthusiasts and animal lovers everywhere who signed on to support the protest of the ad.

The bottom line: a bite from a stray pit bull is about as dangerous as a bite from a stray poodle. The bite pressure on the hand, or other part of the human anatomy, is exactly the same in pit bulls and poodles or any other dog. Petting ANY stray dog is risky, which is why professional animal handlers (including rescuers) take proper precautions before handling a stray.

Eating a Chicken McBite?

Is it risky? Given the usual tastelessness of the general fast-food industry’s offerings, I’m disinclined to find out…

On March 16th, 2011 a Newark city employee found a garbage bag thrown down a trash chute containing the body of an emaciated, almost dead, barely breathing dog. The veterinarian on staff at the local shelter made the courageous decision to save the dog’s life.

This book illustrates the one hour the author spent with Patrick.

Jeff Coltenback was enrolled to evaluate him and give him a thorough temperament test for a custody battle. The book illustrates the events leading up to the evaluation, the evaluation itself as well as personal experiences of the author with other abused pit bulls. If this book doesn’t motivate you to want to help animals in need, then nothing will.

“One Hour with Patrick” is available online at Amazon and CreateSpace, a subsidiary of Amazon.com.

Purchase now at: Amazon.com KINDLE https://www.createspace.com/3627251

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

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Patrick the Pit Bull

by Lois Crockett

Just about a year ago, on March 16, 2011, a starving, neglected pit bull puppy was found in a trash bag by a Newark city garbage man at the 550-unit Garden Spires apartment complex, located in a neighborhood known for its drug trade. While they were pulling garbage bags out of a chute from a 22-floor building to load into a compactor, a maintenance worker saw the trash bag move. Thinking there may be a rat in the bag, the garbage man gingerly opened the bag to find this little bundle of matted fur and bones, barely – yet still, alive.

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Newark animal control was called in and the pup was taken to Garden State Veterinary Specialists (GSVS), of Tinton Falls, New Jersey – about an hours’ ride south of Newark. The pup was assessed to be a pit bull terrier mix, 1 to 2 years old, severely dehydrated, starved and near death.

After a touch-and-go night at GSVS and love, nurturing and great medical care by vets and staff, the pup survived the night and was named after St. Patrick on March 17th, the Feast Day of the patron saint of the Irish. Patrick, the dog, quickly became a celebrity with his own Facebook pages, Twitter feed, and countless outpourings of sympathy and love from around the world. Patrick is comfortably ensconced in a loving foster home until a suitable “furever” home can be found.

“Despite a rough start, Patrick has developed in to a healthy and affectionate dog,” says Patricia Smillie-Scavelli, Administrator at Garden State Veterinary Specialists.

Pit bulls are status symbols in Drugville USA. The dogs are trained to be fierce and vicious by owners who use them for “protection” in an environment where pretty much the only way respect is given is by inducing fear in others. The ONLY reason a pit bull (or any dog, for that matter) is a fierce, vicious animal is due to the fact that the owner trained the animal to behave that way through conditioning, brutality and mistreatment.

hair, large, flashy jewelry, full makeup and false eyelashes, trendy clothing and accessories yet the dog was not neutered when found and had a compacted hairball in his stomach which had to be surgically removed by the vets at GSVS in addition to all the other issues he faced.

A bitter court battle ensued for custody of Patrick, GSVS vs. the Humane Society of Newark, NJ. Custody was given to GSVS and, as all too often happens, focus shifted from the rescued to the rescuer and what is the “right” way to rescue this animal.

Yet, pit bulls are still getting a bad rap. In a recent McDonald’s commercial, they ask what’s riskier – eating their Chicken McBites or “petting a stray pit bull”. Of course, the ad was pulled and an apology was profferedby McD’s after a public hue and cry (see details on page 16). …and for every Patrick story, there are many more cruelty and abuse cases which do not merit national attention because so many of the animals perish before they can be rescued. Or, in many more cases, the animals are rescued by unsung heroes, everyday rescuers who give of their time, effort, money and love to save these cruelly mistreated animals and turn them back into the loving pets they were meant to be.

Curtis doesn’t look so pretty these days, but Patrick is doing just fine.

For more information, visit: http://www.facebook.com/groups/ThePatrickMovement/ http://www.gsvs.org/

Had this warning sign come with the puppy: “Warning! I am a puppy. I am a living, breathing creature and need care, love, food, water, exercise, vetting and I cannot do any of this for myself. You will have to help.

In return, I will give you unconditional love, loyalty, friendship and companionship in tenfold measure. I can be the dog of a lifetime with your help”, perhaps Kisha Curtis and her boyfriend would never have picked up the puppy in the first place.

Kisha Curtis was found guilty of fourth-degree animal abuse by a Grand Jury. She tied the dog to a railing and left him there, outside in the city of Newark, while she took off to Albany. She denied knowledge of how he got from being tied up to being found in a trash bag dumped down the garbage chute. Her picture shows high-styled

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

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As you know, we share a great love and respect for the “Pit Bull “Bully Breed and a strong dislike for Breed Specific Legislation / Breed Discrimination Legislation in any form against any breed. Presently there are 75 targeted breeds in our nation.

The Miami Coalition Against Breed Specific Legislation (unitedagainstbsl.org) is defending this breed and the mixes thereof. In Miami~Dade County, these dogs (Pits, Staffies and mixes of these breeds…) have been banned for over 23 years. We have taken on the challenge and have been quite successful thus far. If you go on our web site ad Facebook page, you will see what we do, what we have achieved and our future goals.

We are seeking sponsors in general and contributions and gifts to auction/ raffle at our many events. They may range from, art, jewelry, gift baskets, voucher for services such as gifts, restaurants, bar, Vets, groomers, clothing, unique items, etc. On behalf of our organization, we would be honored to have your organization or personal support sponsorship, contribute and join our group and help these wonderful breeds overcome this inhumane canine genocide and defeat the ordinance that carries it. In return as a Thank You… we would display your company’s logo on our web site.

Any additional support is always welcomed! We are open to any ideas or suggestions…please contact Michell sayno2bsl@gmail.com or Noah noah20leon@gmail.com …our Marketing dept.

We thank you on behalf of the Dogs…who are awaiting their freedom…

In Hope and Commitment, Dahlia Canes ~Founder/Director for the Miami Coalition against Breed Specific Legislation (MCABSL).

20 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

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Home for Christmas

Hoyt’s Story

By Shari Forst, BCCBC

IN EARLY DECEMBER 2010, a young black and white pit bull mix was reported running at large on Hoyt Road in Warwick, NY. When Animal Control picked him up, he was wearing purple nail polish and was not a happy camper.

When he was brought back to the shelter, he was named “Hoyt” after the road he was found wandering on.

Hoyt was growling at everyone at the shelter; the staff, people that passed by the kennel, and at me when I introduced myself to him. His biggest issue appeared to be a lack of trust. He would give you a quick lick on the face and then pull back and stare at you as if to say, “What are you going to do to me now?”

I took Hoyt out on lead to do a full evaluation. He was obviously clueless about basic obedience commands and how to walk on a leash.

I decided to sit in the gazebo at the shelter with him and just get to know him a little.

We sat there for a few minutes interacting, and every time a pick-up truck drove past, he would immediately pick his head up and look.

SUVs and regular cars would drive by and he wouldn’t care, but the pick-up trucks seemed to peak his interest consistently. I took that to mean that whoever had painted his nails purple must have owned a pick-up truck.

I worked with Hoyt every week and got him past his trust issues. He stopped growling at everyone and actually became quite affectionate. I also obedience trained him, 22 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

so he could walk nicely on a leash and follow all of the basic commands. I also made sure he was not aggressive around food, rawhides, toys and other possessions.

Since I am the on-staff behaviorist and trainer at the Warwick Valley Humane Society, once I finish with one dog I have many others that need my help and attention. I would try to take Hoyt out as often as I could just to keep in contact and refresh him on basic obedience, and just spend some quality time with him when I had the time. However the shelter is full of dogs that need help and unfortunately, as the months wore on, I had less and less time to spend with Hoyt.

The last week of November 2011, I started hearing from some of the shelter staff regarding Hoyt. He had started growling again as people went past his kennel.

He had even started to growl at some staff members. I realized that Hoyt was starting to backslide, and decided even if I didn’t have time to get him out for a training walk, I would take a few minutes and go spend some time with him in his kennel.

The first day I had went in with him after several weeks apart, I knelt down to pet him. Hoyt put his paws on my shoulders and kissed my face. Then he pulled back, looked into my eyes and told me his story. He needed social interaction and attention and he had missed it terribly after I had gotten busy with other dogs. I asked

I started hearing from some of the shelter staff regarding Hoyt. He had started growling again as people went past his kennel. He had even started to growl at some staff members. I realized that Hoyt was starting to backslide, and decided even if I didn’t have time to get him out for a training walk, I would take a few minutes and go spend some time with him in his kennel.

that some of the shelter staff go in and spend some time petting him and interacting with him when I wasn’t there.

During mid December 2011, I happened to be sitting with Hoyt in his kennel, when a gentleman and his friend were walking through the kennels looking for a dog. I heard their voices pass through looking in at each dog.

Then they stopped at Hoyt’s kennel. Hoyt when to react by barking and lunging up, I quickly corrected his behavior and explained to the men that he is a completely different dog outside of the kennels. They watched me interact with Hoyt, and saw his affection for me, and how well he listened to me. They expressed interest, so I had asked if they would like to meet Hoyt. They agreed to meet him. I leashed Hoyt up and met them in the shelter lobby. Hoyt was friendly to the men, but a little cautious and reserved. He remained focused on me, so I put Hoyt through his paces having him execute basic obedience commands for them. I then walked outside with the guys and Hoyt to show them how nicely he walks on a leash. I handed the leash over to one of the men and he took Hoyt for a walk. When they returned, he said that he really liked Hoyt and would like to put in an adoption application.

I was thrilled! He returned later in the day to take pictures of Hoyt to show his family. The shelter researched the man’s application and approved it. That Saturday, December 10th (which happened to be my 18th Wedding Anniversary) Hoyt was adopted by his new owner. I made sure I was at the shelter when he picked him up, went over his obedience commands and made sure I answered all of his questions. I watched Hoyt go into the car with his new owner that afternoon, wondering how he would do his first night in a real home. The next day, one of the shelter staff texted me. She had called to inquire about how Hoyt’s first night went and the man told her he was doing greathe even gave Hoyt a bath!

Hoyt continues to thrive in his new home with his new owner. This was a dog many at the shelter were not sure would ever leave there. The shelter environment is stressful for these dogs, even though the Warwick Valley Humane Society is a well run, wonderful, clean place with a fantastic staff that really cares for all of the animals there.

These dogs do feel anxiety and stress just from the pure lack of social interaction. A few minutes here and there when the staff has time helps, but it’s unrealistic to rec-

reate the social relationship that a dog would have in a home. Often we do not have history on a dog like Hoyt, found as an unclaimed stray. It takes a qualified behaviorist to recognize whether or not a dog like Hoyt can be workable. I always knew he would make a wonderful companion for the right owner, even though some of the shelter staff were doubtful. I am proud to say I had a role in helping Hoyt get a home in time for Christmas! I miss seeing him at the shelter when I am there, but I miss him in a good way. Have a happy life, Hoyt… filled with the love and happiness that I know you have been waiting for your whole life! You deserve it!

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23

Four Paws Asks…

Shari Forst Honestly, before I really got into rehabbing shelter dogs I was not a fan of pit bulls.

Then I met Cream and fell in love with him. His kind loving eyes would look into mine and he would slather my face with wet sloppy kisses. Unfortunately, I was one of a very select few he acted this way with.

Sarah Carlson My Phoebe is a Pittie and she has a sad story. She came into Animal Care & Control with bites all over her and a big wound on her head. She was petrified of everything and was scheduled to be put to sleep because she was scared of the leash and wouldn’t walk on one. She needed a second chance, so I brought her home and she blossoms more and more every day. She walks on the leash now and is such a brave girl. She loves all dogs even after what she was put through as a bait dog. She is my little (big) angel. =)

Susan Powers Lindenmuth

Every month, we pose a question to our friends and rescue partners via social media. This month, we asked…

What made you fall in love with bully breed dogs?

What breed is your favorite?

Boxers? Bulldogs?

24 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

Pits and staffie bulls. Earlier in my career with the fire department, I did search and rescue. My first was a staffie named Szar (he was in Bully Breeds magazine)…never met a stranger and his gentle nature always won over even his harshest critic. I wish I were half the dog he was..:)..been in love with them ever since because most that I have met are just the same...true, honest, non-judgmental, loyal. We should be more like them.

Wendy Gathany Dunn Love those pitties! Their crazy wagging tails-unconditional love-their resilience...they can go thru hell and still be the most loving dogs.

Samantha Gomez Red makes everyone fall in love with him as soon as he climbs in their laps. Something about a 90 lb pit bull thinking he’s a lapdog is endearing to the masses. :)

Denise DeGeorgio Cooney We had a Bull Mastiff who was a 185 lb gentle giant!!!! Terrific disposition, most handsome and majestic (minus the occasional drool…lol), but definitely a terrific companion. Although very large in size, he was not destructive and loved being with the family. And to fully answer your question, the baby blue eyes at birth did it for me…true love!

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25

Rescue Heroes…

Dahlia Canes, Pit Bull Warrior

By Cheryl Simone-Miller

On Facebook or at any South Florida pit bull related event…be it social or activism against Breed Specific Legislation (BSL)…you will always find Dahlia Canes. Invariably, with bull horn in hand.

She is a petite woman with a huge voice for the world’s most misunderstood breed.

She works tirelessly for the breed and against the laws that make it illegal to own a pit bull in not only Miami-Dade county, but in various spots across the nation.

Four Paws had a chance to speak with her.

26 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

FOUR PAWS: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where were you born?

Dahlia Canes: I was born in Habana, Cuba and came to Miami in 1959 to escape Castro’s communist regime… looking for freedom. I was raised here. I am a Miami girl!

is, her entire life was sacrificed until the end as a direct result of an unfounded canine profiling ban.

FP: What do you consider the biggest obstacles pit bulls face right now?

DC: Ignorance and fear and the Miami-Dade County FP: Did you have pets as a child?

DC: I had lots of pets as a child...I brought everything home to the delight of my mother...from chickens, dogs, cats, turtles, mice...you name it.

FP: How did you get started in rescue?

DC: It was a natural instinct. It’s an aura energy one has that develops as you mature until it hits you over the head like a sledge hammer and you realize this is your calling. Sooooooooo, you follow it...at least I did. To date I still have lots of pets...no hoarding though (laughs).

FP: How did you become an advocate for pit bulls?

DC: I found my first Pit Bull, Chocolate, running the streets on the bad side of town in Miami. She had just been bred, was really screwed up physically, but she was gentle and loving. I adopted her, as I was not aware of the Pit Bull Ban in Dade County.

I was away on business in N.Y. and had left her with a friend in SoBe. As I was having dinner with my cousin upon my return, prior to picking her up...I got a frantic call. The Miami Beach Police Department had gone into my friend’s apartment, arrested her for resisting arrest and Miami Dade Animal Services confiscated my dog. The next day, I had to bail my friend out of jail and get my dog out of MDAS. It took going through hell and high waters to get her out, as they were going to kill her. Afterwards, for the next 11 years she was living from home to home and staying with me short periods of time. I am red flagged in Miami-Dade County for Pit Bulls. Interesting enough...in October of 2010…Chocolate was reevaluated by MDAS and she did not conform to Pit Bull standards anymore. Seemingly her shoulders were now not as broad and her grey muzzle not as wide...so her physical characteristics didn’t meet their conformity checklist standards. She is now legal and living with one of my Miami Coalition Against Breed Specific Legislation Board Members. The pisser

Commissioner Javier Souto. He has absolutely zero knowledge or education on the real issues and refuses to get any. This [the pit bull ban] is his legacy...and he supports it till the end. Hopefully the end will come...come election time.

FP: What are some of the myths about pit bulls that you battle all the time?

DC: Top of the list…it has got to be the freaking locking jaws! This is anatomically impossible. That pits have aggression instincts and will turn on you. Totally false. Any dog can bite and each dog must be evaluated on individual characteristics.

There are numerous others, but like these stated, are totally ridiculous and not worth mentioning.

FP: Where should someone go to learn more about bully breeds?

DC: You can log onto our MCABSL’s web site unitedagainstbsl.org, Best Friends, Animal Farm Foundation, Animal Law Coalition, see the film, “Beyond The Myth”, and by all means read the “Pit Bull Placebo” by Ms. Karen Delise. Education and awareness is our biggest tool.

FP: Tell me a little bit about what you do with MCABSL. DC: I am the Founder and Director for MCABSL. I oversee everything that goes on...I address the media, handle legislative matters, do presentations, attend events, get involved with rescues, assist with dog confiscations or fines, sleep four hours a night and I do a mean tap dance when necessary. My Board is amazing! Our supporters and friends...equally amazing!

No rest for me until BSL is gone...BSL or BDL is a genocidal ban that protects no one and kills innocent dogs with your tax dollars. It is discrimination. Stand up for those who have no voices… those who give you that unconditional love. Let’s make BSL a thing of the past! We can do it!

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

27

For the Love of

Omega

By Brad Miller

“YOU AND OMEGA have one of those amazing dog/ owner relationships books are written about.”

This is how a close friend described the bond I share with my pit bull during a past camping trip. I love my dog, and would do anything for him. Omega, my pittie, would do the same for me, and then some. Of this I have no doubt. out of two things…muscle and pure, unadulterated love. He I like to tell people I have known Omega every single day won me over in just a few minutes of showing me he wanted of his life. I was there the day he was born, watched his eyes nothing more than to give all of his endless love to anybody who would sit still long enough to receive it. open, and I saw most of his awkward first steps. I helped with cleanup and maintenance of the 12 puppy litter he Ruca, Omega’s mother is very different than Red. She is a was born into until they were weaned and ready go to their little mellower, reserved and exhibits the same kind of pit bull forever homes. The entire time, Omega was the LAST dog I love as Red, just in a calmer fashion. My son Jack, who at the wanted out of the litter. He was the biggest of the bunch. He time was 6, was terrified of larger dogs. Red had no idea his was the most wiggly, energetic, mischievous and rambunceagerness to love on Jack was too much for him to handle. Ruca had a special place in her heart for Jack and read him well from tious of the dozen. By far, he was the craftiest and the one the moment she met him. She would spend any time Jack was who was sure to find the weakness and escape from wherthere right by his side, deflecting the rambunctious Red. When ever you put him. Plus, he’s male. We wanted a calm, quiet he moved, she was by his side. When he sat, she had her head in little girl…but he was not having this. his lap. Like a protective mother, she would always put Red in When I found out Red and Ruca were having a litter his place as soon as Jack became uncomfortable. They were a we decided we needed to have one of their pups. I knew wonderful pair of dogs, and we had to have one of the puppies any puppy from those two beautiful, loving dogs would be when we found out that Ruca was pregnant. amazing. So I was ready to join the pit bull owners club, for better or worse. Before meeting Omega’s parents, I was ignorant and uninformed about the breed and what amazing members of the family they can be.

I was a product of the media, popular opinion and misinformation. I thought pit bulls were ticking time-bombs and a risk no pragmatic person would ever undertake.

Red and Ruca, Omega’s parents changed all of that forevermore. At a glance, Red is one of the strongest, most imposing and intimidating red nose pitties I have ever seen. I am a fairly rough and tumble person. I enjoy camping, shooting, fishing, rock crawling, motorcycles and a variety of “tough guy” activities. When I walked into Red’s house for the first time and saw him, my heart stopped. I was terrified. Despite the fact he had never met me and I was standing by the door I Red and Ruca had just entered like a statue, Red jumped into my arms and showered me with kisses. I was totally The day the puppies came was a madhouse. Fortunately, taken by surprise by two things; first, how truly intimidated they all arrived on my day off. At 7 in the morning, I received I was by this amazing athletic creature. Second, and most a call from Kyle, Red and Ruca’s owner, telling me to get over importantly, I was blown away with the instant knowledge there because the long awaited day had arrived. I asked about despite his imposing physical presence; this dog was made 28 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

I like to tell people I have known Omega every single day of his life.

I was there the day he was born, watched his eyes open, and I saw most of his awkward first steps. the ones already born and Kyle said, “They are awesome and healthy. They have great markings, and one of them has a one that looks like the Greek letter omega across his lower back.” We spent the rest of the day helping Ruca bring 12 healthy pups into the world.

Thru a prior arrangement it had been decided I would have the pick of the litter. I took the honor very seriously and wanted to make sure I picked the most perfect dog. Every day I would go and sit with all the pups, spending time with each one individually to see which one fit best. I still remember the moment I knew Omega was the dog I would be choosing.

Rather, the dog who had chosen me. I would lay each one on my chest, stare at them and just try to get an idea about their temperament for a few minutes every day before or after work. Up until this particular day, none of them had interacted back with me. They just basically squirmed around and looked to get back to the bunch. When I picked up Omega and laid him on my chest, he moved around a bit then sniffed my beard, buried his face in it and went to sleep. It was a significant move. He was comfortable being with me. Every day from that point, whenever I came to visit, he would push himself to the front when I came around and always wanted to fall asleep in my beard. I was hooked.

From day one, we wanted to make sure Omega was an ambassador for the breed, a dog that would give even the most steadfast opponents cause to rethink their stance, even if only for a moment. I wanted him to show the world what kind of amazing family member pit bulls can be. He needed to offset the heavy barrage of information stating the breed is nothing but a problem, coveted predominantly by the criminal element. I was determined to have a well behaved dog, one who was a showcase for this amazing breed and everything they embody. He has become just that and more. I have seen him upend long standing views in short visits. Nothing makes me happier than to hear, “He is so well behaved and calm, I can’t believe he is a pit bull.” This gives me a springboard into a conversation loaded with facts, numbers and passion about the greatest breed of dog I have ever spent time with. I have always believed education, a well stated case, and proof will always win out over hysteria.

Omega and I are out to change minds, even against the most ill-informed, ignorant and opinionated opponents.

I have never seen a breed of dog that can be made to follow their owners every whim based purely on loyalty and

love. I rarely have raised my voice with Omega. All I have to do is look at him with disappointment and the bad behavior stops immediately. It is a fate worse than death for him to realize I am displeased with him, and we work very hard to insure it happens as little as possible. I understand he lives Omega continued on page 47

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

29

“The Condemnation of

OUR BEST FRIEND”

By Dahlia Canes

IT IS ONLY APPROPRIATE TO BEGIN such an article by stating Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) is the most absurd and hideous piece of legislation designed by man, paying tribute only to the ultimate disgrace that has become of humanity. My favorite description of this atrocity is, “It’s a Karmic bitch-slap to man’s best friend.”

These ordinances or statutes purely serve as canine profiling, comparable to racial profiling. This law makes it completely illegal to own, harbor, or have in your possession a specific banned breed. The exception to BSL is if your dog is a Service Dog, which then falls under and is protected under federal law. This is in accordance to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which trumps city, county or state laws. However, in the city of Denver, Colorado, there is still much to do with this matter. The greater part of BSL seems to target 3 specific breeds. They are the American Pit Bull Terrier, the Staffordshire Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and their mixes. Presently in the US, there are 75 banned breeds, including Chows, Dobermans, Rottweilers, American Bull Dogs, Akitas, German Shepherds and even Pugs.

This ordinance in itself creates other problems. It is difficult enough to identify a Pit Bull, as it is impossible to determine

30 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

a breed by its physical characteristics. However, in many counties and states, they will accept whatever or whoever is classifying it as such. If it looks like a Pit…it’s a Pit. Numerous breeds are suffering the consequences for such radical legislation. The National Canine Research Council (NCRC), report concluded that Miami-Dade County, since passing BSL in 1989, has not kept the community safer by reducing the number of serious incidents involving dogs.

Other breeds have, at one point or another, fallen to BSL or they have been banned. The Alsatian in 1929 was banned by the Australian Government. This occurred after lobbying pastoralists feared it would mate with the Dingo. The ban was lifted in 1974 after intense lobbying by humane groups and a name change occurred, turning it into our beloved German Shepherd. Dobermans and Rottweilers felt the grasp in the 60’s and 70’s. BSL is merely a failing social

experiment that is ineffective, discriminatory and unconstitutional.

Governments that have gone this route have encountered that these kinds of ordinances do not by any means reduce the incidence of dog bites or protects the general public from harm. Counties and cities spend thousands of dollars from U.S. tax payers, passing and then upholding these legal productions. They do not have the desired impact and are defeated in the long run. Even Alabama ruled there was no realistic evidence that one breed of dog was more dangerous than another simply based on breed. Numerous courts have found BSL to be unconstitutional because it is in the nature of expos facto law and violative of the Fifth Amendment of the US Constitution that provides “nor shall any persons be deprived of life, liberty or property, without due process of law.” This does not specify whether it gives anyone the power to confiscate an animal. The local laws by BSL run afoul of the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution which provides no state shall “deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.”

The State of Florida already has a Dangerous Dog Law, but it is not breed specific and it prevents cities and counties from developing dangerous dog regulations specific to breed. Miami-Dade County has the only breed ban in the entire state. This was hastily passed in 1989, predating the state ban on breed specific prohibitions. Chapter 5 of County Code Section 5-17 defines a Pit Bull dog only on physical characteristics and, because the ordinance quoting the UKC and the AKC standards are not accurately referenced therein, the temperament of the animal is not included in the breed characteristics checklist. The UKC objected to having their standards used for this purpose, but the County disagreed. During the enactment of this ban, not a single Vet, Animal Behaviorist/Trainer, Registry Breed Group or Rescue Organization was called on for expert advice or professional consultations. The ordinance

is unfounded. In September of 2006, in the City of Coral Springs, Florida, the city council rescinded their resolution, basing it on “insufficient support for the measure locally at the state level.” Presently in Miami-Dade County, if you are caught with one of the three banned breeds or their mixes conforming to the county’s checklist, your dog is considered illegal. You are then given 48 hours to get rid of your beloved family member without rhyme or reason. Accompanying this procedure, a $500.00 fine is posted…further complications can result in a lien on your property.

This is where most of the frantic calls come into the Miami Coalition Against Breed Specific Legislation (MCABSL). We, along with the aid of the rescue community, have to find a quick placement for these dogs outside the county. How do you explain to a child why their dog is being taken from them by the government, when it’s done nothing wrong? How do you substitute one dog for another? Tell us how to explain why a dog why is being killed?

It seems to me the county has no answers for these questions. “Ever occur to you why some of us can be this much concerned with animals suffering? Because Government is not. Why not? They can’t vote.” - Paul Harvey.

The American Pit Bull Terrier (Pit Bull is a generic term) were bred to be NON human aggressive. They were and are family dogs. You can find numerous vintage photos depicting this breed with babies and small children…families and farmers. Helen Keller’s dog was a Pit bull. Petey was the famous dog in Spanky and Our Gang films. The American Pit Bull Terrier has been the only breed of dog to grace the cover of LIFE magazine 3 times. Then we have Sergeant Stubby, who served in the military frontlines in WWI. As of today, some of the most famous and active Police K9, Search and Rescue dogs, Service dogs and Therapy dogs are Pit Bulls.

The list in endless…all the way to present times. The story of “Chief”, a Pit who gave his life while placing his body as a shield to protect his owner

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

31

Social Media for Pit Bull Lovers

By Dan Meagher Pit Bull Positive was formed in 2008 to help better inform on the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) breed and dispel many of the widespread myths the media consistently circulates about the breed.

Our mission is to educate the general public and encourage other responsible owners to increase their knowledge of the breed in order to more effectively educate those who rely on the false media depiction.

We offer a website www.pitbullpositive.ning.com to help owners and admirers of the breed exchange stories and information as well as a web-based audio show to further reach the masses.

Education and awareness is the key to better understanding the breed and the many obstacles we face as responsible owners.

The Pit Positive dogs

32 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

Dani Meagher with some of the pack

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33

Brewster, Colorado or Bust!

By Charelle Burgess, volunteer for This is the Dog!, www.thisisthedog.com

BREWSTER STARTED LIFE as we volunteers knew it in the street in Miami in November of 2010. Taken in by a senior citizen who found him and pampered for a few days, she called This is the Dog! and offered to pay for boarding until a foster home opened up. We accepted him knowing the difficult task ahead.

Not that he wasn’t adoptable to us as a handsome, young, and stunning grey/blue boy of about 8-9 months old, but his adoption process would take time because of his breed. Brewster is a strapping young American Staffordshire Terrier, and illegal in Miami-Dade county. Not illegal because of anything he did, because we know licking a person to death could be considered a crime and straddling you with all four of his paws while trying to sit in your lap can be harsh, yes all 60 pounds of him, but illegal because of his looks.

Brewster had several temporary living locations over the course of the year while with This is the Dog!. He went from a vet boarding facility where he was told his stay would be limited, again because of his breed. Next to a foster home in a gated neighborhood where when he was taken for his daily walks, with his doggie foster sisters, people looked at him strangely.

To yet another boarding facility so people wouldn’t be able to ask questions about his “breed” and if he’s “legal” to live here. Finally in June he landed a secluded foster home where his looks could be kept under wraps. It felt like This is the Dog! was harboring a criminal who finally found a “safe house”.

Over the year Brewster did a photo shot for a Mutts N Models campaign and had several adoption inquiries, it’s not like we weren’t trying. Sadly each inquiry was in Miami-Dade county, where he wasn’t allowed to live and be adopted.

Brewster’s angel came calling in December 2011, one year and one month after joining This is the Dog!’s rescue group. His soon-to-be dad lives in Colorado, just outside of Denver, whew because Denver is another place Brewster would

34 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

be un-welcome. Jay had been looking for a four-legged friend to adopt for a while and fell in love with Brewster’s pictures, videos, and bio’s that his rescuers had been working hard to promote in other counties. So finally after waiting with us for 15 months, Brewster is going HOME! West bound, Colorado or bust!

Brewster is currently set to travel via “We Move Pets”. His adopter spares no expense for his new found friend and Brewster will leave Florida and head west to Colorado in mid-February.

All we can say is, Brewster it will be worth the wait.

FEBR UARY 2012

35

WHO SHOULD FEAR WHOM? Bully breed supporters and owners find themselves in a constant struggle…lecturing uninformed people almost daily about the nature of bully breed dogs. We encounter people who say our dogs should not be around children. People who say our dogs are a menace to society. Organizations like PETA that suggest we should euthanize all pit bulls and pit mixes in shelters. Ignorant or criminal owners who see bully breeds as status symbols or pawns for violent sport.

But who should fear whom?

Nearly 65% of animal cruelty cases reported each year involve dogs. Most often, those dogs are pit bulls or pit bull mixes. Dogs are found chained in yards. Or left in airless garages or empty homes. Some are doused with hot oil or set on fire as part of some bizarre gang ritual. Some are hanged. Or drowned.

Or electrocuted. Pit bulls are forced to fight…and if

36 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

By Cheryl Simone-Miller

they won’t…they become bait dogs. They suffer injuries. Some are starved. Some suffer as weights are placed around their necks. They aren’t vetted or treated for parasites. Most of these dogs let it happen, without lashing out against their owner.

Some die. Some find a second chance.

All of these pictures are of pit bulls and pit mixes subjected to the worst kinds of abuse. Some are well known…like Patrick, Lotus and Ace. Some represent the countless dogs that end up in shelters. Dogs who often die without knowing love or kind care.

What can you do to help? Consider adopting a bully breed with the help of one of our partner rescues. Learn about the breed and be a responsible owner. Help share dogs in need via social media. Donate time at a shelter or rescue to help socialize dogs that don’t know human kindness. Donate money to help with vetting.

Do what you can. Because bully breeds have more to fear in humanity that we will ever have to fear in them.

FEBR UARY 2012

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South Florida Adoptables All of these animals are waiting at the rescues for someone to love them.

Maybe it will be you!

This is the Dog!

305-508-PETS (7387) • Email: pets@thisisthedog.com • www.thisisthedog.com Panda is a 2 year old AMERICAN BULLDOG with black and white markings and is current on all shots and vaccines, chipped and registered with HomeAgain. She is a 65 lb spayed female who loves all people and absolutely LOVES children (she plays with her foster family’s). Panda must be adopted into a home with no other animals. She does not get along with most other animals and is very interested in hunting small animals (guinea pigs, gerbils, frogs, etc.). She will not bother fish tanks or tanks with lizards or snakes though. She has lots of energy, loves to play with the water from the hose and play with toys. She is crate trained, and would do fine in an apartment with at least two good walks daily. Really a human oriented dog - wants to please and is VERY trainable. She has been with her foster mom, Gemma, for a year and has learned: come, heel (with a firm hand), sit (bombproof with or without a treat), loose leash walking (unless she sees another dog) and roll over. Needs to be an only pet but has LOTS of love to give for the right owner.

Abandoned Pet Rescue 954-728-9010 • Email: apr954@aol.com • www.abandonedpetrescue.com Lil Sal Lil Sal was a little shy when he first came to APR. He has grown up with us in the kitten room and now that he is comfortable in his surroundings he has become much friendlier to everyone. Lil Sal may not be so little anymore but he is still young at heart and will be a wonderful addition to any home. He acts like a big brother to the new arrivals in the kitten room, but he is ready to leave the kitten room and find a new home with a family that loves him. Stop by to meet Lil Sal any day between noon and 5 p.m.

Lion is a young dog who has spent most of his life living in a crate. The owners asked us to help find him a better home as they just do not have the time for him. He is housebroken, crate trained, likes treats and attention, however, he does dig. Lion would be happy in any home where he would get regular walks, a good deal of attention and loving and just some good dog fun.

Big Hearts for Big Dogs 305-907-9171 • Volunteer Services or Pets in Distress: help@bigheartsbigdogs.com • WPB@bigheartsbigdogs.com www.bigheartsbigdogs.com

Molly is a 1.5-2 year old female mix. She is only 35-37 lbs. She is energetic, agile, and can jump a 6 ft fence.

She needs a committed adopter who will either watch her outside or walk her only on leash. This little love has an amazingly charming personality and anyone who meets her falls in love with her.

Big Bertha! She is a 85 lb Mastiff/Lab mix about 3 years old. Dont let these sad eyes fool you. She has lots of energy, love, and life in her. Bertha knows basic commands. She walks wonderful on a leash and will choose affection over food ♥ BHBD Rescue only adopts in Florida.

Warm Hearts and Good Karma Pet Rescue 561-316-RESQ (7377) • info@iheartdogs.org • www.iheartdogs.org Jack was rescued off of death row from Miami Dade Animal Services, and had found a foster. The foster then became severely allergic and had to back out of his commitment. He is one of the most well behaved boys, who is so smart the trainer who was working with him was in awe of how fast he picked everything up. Not much is known about Jack, or his past, just that he is a big wonderful guy who is waiting for the perfect family to be his. Jack is a big, gorgeous guy who is ready for his forever home! He is playful and happy and would love to become part of your family. Walks along the water, playing fetch in the yard -- Jack is up for it all! Jack loves people of all sizes & shapes and will be best as the only pet.

38 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

Continued on page 42

Pit Bulls & Hollywood Golden Collar Award winner Uggie

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IT LOOKED LIKE A REGULAR HOLLYWOOD AWARDS SHOW, but the event on Monday, February 13th honored movie performers of the four-legged kind.

It was the very first Golden Collar Awards, honoring the best dog performances on the big and small screen.

Uggie, the Jack Russell Terrier star of the acclaimed movie “The Artist” was named top dog in a movie. Owner-trainer Omar Von Muller called Uggie a great performer, but also part of his family. “He sleeps with us,” said Von Muller.

Saying “This is the first time a pit bull’s been nominated for anything,” Shorty Rossi of the reality TV show “Pit Boss” accepted an award for his pit bull, Hercules.

The show was broadcast online by the Hollywood Reporter. They’re expecting the show to be televised next year.

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Hercules, the pit bull from “Pit Boss” GUS RUELAS / Reuters

W W W. O S C A R N E W M A N . C O M FEBR UARY 2012

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South Florida Adoptables Continued from page 20

The Cat Network 305-255-3482 • Email: info@thecatnetwork.org • www.thecatnetwork.org Dandelion A rescuer was headed home one night and decided to grab some dinner on the way. Behind the restaurant was a colony of cats being fed by the kitchen crew. The rescuer knew they needed to be trapped and neutered. She went back and Dandelion went into her trap almost immediately. He had no eyelids and had a detached retina in one eye!

Reconstructive surgery was done to “create” eyelids so that his eyes don’t dry out. His limited vision doesn’t stop him though. He loves attention and is very sweet and loving.

Metro “Metro” is a very friendly, 2-year old boy. When Metro was a little boy, he was found at the Miami-Dade Police Department. Metro is curious and loves to follow you around. His foster mom dresses him up for every holiday! Right now, he is showing his Irish side, which he prefers to being a mouse on Halloween!

Florida Parrot Rescue 954-516-1759 • Email: FLParrotRescue@aol.com • www.floridaparrotrescue.com Peaches - Peach Face Lovebird Hi! My name is Peaches and I am, you guessed it! A peach faced lovebird! I am very young, only a few years old, but as you can see my colors are very muted. This is a result (according to my wonderful new veterinarian) from not being on the proper diet or getting sunlight, so for now I am on vitamins including calcium and have lots of sunlight in my future to fix that issue! For now though, I am pretty shy and when you try to touch me I will run away and sometimes nip, but that is because I am scared.

I am just looking for the right person who I can trust and who will love me forever so I can open up and be the cuddly little bird I know I can be! Could you maybe be that person?

Rico - Blue & Gold Macaw Rico is estimated to be approximately 7 years old. Rico’s background is unknown to FPR, but since coming into foster care he has exhibited no negative behaviors or bad habits.Rico demonstrates an active interest and willingness to interact with his foster family but is still very unsure of himself. He enjoys attention and interaction with his foster family and is quite the flirt.

He needs someone willing to continue his training to step-up readily on a hand or stick. Fortunately, Rico is highly motivated by treats and will readily accept food from your hands. He is being introduced to a variety of new fruits and veggies and will usually try something if I eat it first. Rico will only be considered to a home with an experienced parrot person who demonstrates an understanding of parrot behavior and positive reinforcement teaching techniques. His new family should also consider that Rico will live for another 70+ years and arrangements should be made by his new family for his care in the event they can no longer care for him.

Humane Society of Broward County 954-989-3977 • www.humanebroward.com

Wenworth (ID# 441711) is an 8 month old, male, mini lopped ear rabbit who lost his home because his family is moving. This cutie is good with other pets and is used to living inside a home. Can he hop into your life and be your new best friend? The adoption fee for rabbits is $20 and includes spay or neuter surgery. For more details call the Humane Society of Broward County at 954-989-3977.

Looking for a sweet little dog that enjoys going for walks to be part of your family? If you said yes, then Coach (ID# A441948) is the gal for you. This sweetie is a 5 year young, 20 pound Dachshund mix who is good with people of all ages and she likes to play. Coach is potty trained and hoping you will give her a home for life. For more details call the Humane Society of Broward County at 954-989-3977.

40 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

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South Florida Adoptables Continued from page 22

Boxer Friends 866-715-9743 • www.boxerfriends.org

Sugar is a super sweet and fun dog. She absolutely loves all people. She is extremely friendly with all dogs and really enjoys going to the dog park. She can be playful but she has excellent house manners such as no chewing, no accidents, no begging, no jumping onto furniture, etc. As long as she is with her people and getting lots of love, she is so happy! She is up to date with vaccinations, heartworm preventative, is spayed and microchipped. If you would like to make a part of your family please fill out an adoption application at www.boxerfriends.org.

Zeuby is a beautiful Boxer mix that is under a year old. He gets along with dogs of any size and loves spending the day with his friends at doggie day care. He would love to have a doggie brother or sister of his own to play with. He is crate trained and heads right for his “house” every night after his walk. Since he still is a puppy we recommend plenty of sturdy chew toys. He is neutered, up to date with vaccinations, heartworm preventative and is microchipped. If you would like to adopt Zeuby please fill out an adoption application at www.boxerfriends.org.

Compassionate Pug Rescue cpr@compassionatepugrescue.com • www.compassionatepugrescue.com Male-Age: About 7-8 years old Hey everybody! My name is Bodi and I’m a handsome pug. Compassionate Pug Rescue picked me up from a dog park in Miami during the holidays after someone left me there-can you imagine? I ended up going to the vet and getting four teeth pulled! Nobody ever told me I needed to brush my teeth!!! You could also call me Mr. Magoo’s cousin, I’m not as bad and it doesn’t stop me from greeting you at the door with a smiling face. When it’s time to go for an outing, I’m excited and ready to go. You know I’m a pug because you can hear my funny noises throughout the room I’m in. I do need some eye drops twice a day to help keep my eyes nice and moist but that’s no trouble at all I’m told.

Monty - Male - Age: About 4-6 years Let me introduce myself, pug lovers…My name is Monty and I am quite the special pug! Weighing in at 25 lbs, I am a big boy on a solid, large frame, but am a good weight for my size. Did I mention how handsome I am? Through no fault of my own, I ended up at the shelter and since nobody came to claim me, they called pug rescue to spring me. CPR picked me up - took me to the Doc where I got “snipped”, and my choppers cleaned up. My only real issue is I have some pigment on my eyes and will require daily eye drops. I am a happy, laid back guy who can be playful with bursts of energy. I love walks and of course mealtime. I get along with all my fur siblings. I love to be close to my people and enjoy hanging out with them. Oh did I mention I am housebroken?

Pawsitive4Life pawsitive4life@gmail.com • www.pawsitive4life.org Tebo 1.5 year old Mastiff/Ridgeback mix. Energetic and likes to play with people. Great with other dogs. Enjoys treat and is a quick learner. Wants a forever home that will show him the same amoutn of love he has to give them. Up to date o vaccines, neutered and microchipped.

2.5 year old Brindle Staffordshire mix. Sully loves people and playing with big dogs! She is a quick learner and loves treats and toys. She walks gently on the leash and enjoys snuggles and kisses. She is looking for her forever home and is up to date in vaccines, spayed and microchipped.

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South Florida Adoptables Continued from page 22

Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control 561-233-1200 • www.pbcgov.com/animal Red He was part of a cruelty investigation from October 2011. He was tied up in the backyard of a home along with 4 other dogs with no food, water, and very minimal shelter. We won custody of the dogs in November 2011 and he has been looking for a loving home ever since. His previous owner was arrested for animal cruelty and is no longer allowed to own animals. Red is a fabulous dog, very gentle and loving and good with other dogs. His adoption fee is only $58 and will included his neutering, vaccinations, rabies shot, license tag, microchip, vet exam, and much more! ID#1596100

Recycla-Bull Terrier Rescue www.facebook.com/rcbtr • www.rcbtr.org

Maggie 2-3yr old female. Small girl of less than 40lbs. Very sweet and just a lovebug. Maggie will need to be an only pet. Crate trained, housebroken, walks well on lead, healthy and ready for a forever home. We believe Maggie to be a larger mini.

Possum is a sweet, comical and energetic 18 month old male. He weighs 50 lbs. and has brindle ears - holds his food bowl in his mouth! Crate trained, walks well on a leash and dog friendly. He is smart as a whip and very sensitive.

He is truly a clown and loves his Kong Wubba! He would love to become the companion of someone who is looking for an exercise buddy! Possum needs a stable home. No cats or small children.

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FEBR UARY 2012

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44 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

Calling all Vendors!

Join the Delray Beach Public Library’s Centennial Celebration. If you have gently used items, crafts, treasures, trinkets, books, or you are a non-profit, here is your opportunity to participate in our...

This is a great event to help celebrate and support all that the Delray Beach Public Library does to enrich our community. Reserve your space today!

When:

Saturday March 10th, 2012 • 8:00am - 1:00pm

Where:

The Delray Beach Library parking lot 100 West Atlantic Avenue Delray Beach, Florida 33444

Information:

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Delray Beach Public Library • 100 West Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33444 • 561.266.0775 • www.delraylibrary.org FEBR UARY 2012

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rescue partners Our goal at Pawsitive4Life is to help promote and support efforts to secure the safe haven and wellbeing of dogs and cats needing homes in Florida. We aim to help save as many lives as possible from high kill shelters, as well as other animals that are in jeopardy. The focus is to raise the funds needed to achieve this goal by working with other organizations, independent rescuers and the community at large.

Our reward is that we have helped save more than 275 dogs just this year alone by working with numerous rescues and independent rescuers.

For more information, email pawsitive4life@gmail.com. http://www.pawsitive4life.org

Big Hearts for Big Dogs started as a small group of individuals who saw a desperate need for advocates of larger breed dogs. Smaller dogs are adopted faster and rescued more often. And just like that a new hope is born. A new hope and beginning for big dogs all over South Florida. Our hope is that this rescue brings big hearts together to save more animals. http://www.bigheartsbigdogs.com

Warm Hearts Pet Rescue, Inc. is a Florida Not-for-Profit corporation dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and re-homing of South Florida's high-kill shelter dogs. We are a non-kill facility. We are located in Boynton Beach at our brand new facility. If you would like to volunteer at the rescue or any upcoming events, or foster/adopt a dog or cat, please contact the rescue at 561-588-0083.

We are located at 550 Industrial Way, Suite D, Boynton Beach, FL 33426. Please call in advance to schedule an appointment to see our adoptable pets. Volunteers are needed throughout the day.

APR’s primary goal is to assemble a no-kill community.

This is quite a daunting task; nonetheless, APR is making a valuable contribution to the animal community and will continue to do so as long as support is provided from generous donors.

APR is dedicated to matching the right pet with the right home for the enduring happiness of both pet and owner. Our pets are with us as long as they need to be & to be healthy and well adjusted. Often they need medical care, love and time to feel secure before they can be placed up for adoption. Our lives are dedicated to finding forever homes for each of our pets. It is our passion, it is our responsibility. www.abandonedpetrescue.org

Animal Aid Inc. is a non-profit, no-kill animal rescue shelter and adoption center.

Our shelter takes in emergency, abuse and neglect cases as well as dogs and cats from various animal control agencies in Palm Beach, Dade and Broward Counties in South Florida. We offer cats and dogs for adoption 7 days a week. We rely solely on donations.

One of our goals is to address the overpopulation problem of stray and feral cats by offering the public a humane trap/spay/ return service. Our program includes vaccinations, AIDS and leukemia testing, recovery & release, foster homes, medical care and an adoption program http://www.animal-aid.com

46 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

Omega continued from page 29 strictly for my approval, adoration and love and make an effort to remember and respect this in all of our interactions.

Pit bulls are amazing creatures. They are amazing to look at and never fail to impress me with their physical stature.

Beyond this, what is most impressive about the breed is their endless well of love. They do everything big, especially love. I am always amazed at the depth of emotion I see when I look into a pittie’s eyes. Six years down the road, Omega and I are tighter than ever.

We have also rescued another amazing pit bull and I could never imagine my life without them. It breaks my heart to think that pitties make up the bulk of shelter dogs, and are the most commonly abused breed. I can’t begin to fathom all of the untapped love out there in shelters. Spend some time with a pit bull or two…you may find yourself forever changed wondering two things; First, how you could have thought poorly of such a magnificent breed, and secondly, how you could ever have lived without one in your life?

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FEBR UARY 2012

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ANIMAL

RESCUE

Big Dog Ranch Rescue, Wellington 561-791-6465 • www.bdrr.org Big Dog Ranch Rescue is one of the largest no-kill shelters in the State of Florida.

We rescue dogs of all sizes and once they walk through our doors, you can be sure that they will be carefully adopted out to a new home or remain with us for the duration of their lives. Our staff, along with over 100 volunteers, cares for them, feeds them, plays with them and finds them loving homes. To us, shelter is not just a noun, it’s a verb. We take these dogs (from Chihuahua to Mastiff) in our loving arms and protect them from harm until someone else promises they will. The mission of Big Dog Ranch Rescue is to provide shelter, care and affection to homeless and unwanted dogs of all breeds and to adopt them out to loving human companions. In support of those objectives, we also promote animal welfare and celebrate the special bond between dogs and people through education, awareness and community outreach. Big Dog Ranch Rescue is associated with the Weimaraner Rescue & Adoption of Florida and is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Boxer Friends, Ft. Lauderdale 866-715-9743• www.boxerfriends.org Boxer Friends, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit Florida charitable organization, devoted to helping Boxers in need in the south Florida area. We focus on the needy Boxer dogs in Broward and south Palm Beach counties, but are not limited to these areas, as resources allow. We rescue Boxers from shelters in south Florida before they are euthanized, and help displaced Boxers find new, loving, appropriate homes.

Cats Exclusive Inc., Margate 954-975-8349 • snap@catsexclusive.org www.catsexclusive.org Cats Exclusive, a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization, is dedicated to helping our community - both people and felines alike. Established in 1979, our no-kill adoption branch has taken in over 5,800 cats and has worked hard to find them the best homes possible. At the facility itself we can only care for up to sixty cats at a time. In September of 2007, we decided we wanted to start doing more for our community and launched our low-cost clinic. We now offer many services that you would find at your local veterinarian’s office, including spaying/neutering, vaccines, dentals, and other routine surgeries. We have fixed over 10,000 cats and by utilizing our clinic, you’re helping to support our cause.

Florida Parrott Rescue 813-464-0989 • bazalee@yahoo.com www.floridaparrotrescue.com Florida Parrot Rescue works throughout the entire state of Florida, and is a 501c3 non-profit, all volunteer run, avian rescue dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and placement of companion parrots. We understand that all parrot owners love their birds, and that finding a new home for their birds is used as a last option. Florida Parrot Rescue remains non-judgmental and supportive in your time of need. If you need to re-home your bird, Florida Parrot Rescue can help by offering your bird a safe place to stay and get veterinary care until the right home can be found!

GROUPS Gigi’s Rescue, Miami 786-991-8201 • gigisrescue@gmail.com www.gigisrescue.com

Gigi’s Rescue is named after Gisela Tacao, the founder of our organization.

Gigi’s Rescue is a nonprofit organization located in Miami, Florida.(We are in the process of getting our 501(C)3 status.) Gisela is originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and grew up with a large number and variety of animals that she rescued. Her “kids” included cats, dogs, rabbits, turtles, birds, a parrot named Tico, Romeo and Juliet - two rescued pigeons - mice, hamsters, fish & even a pig named Bolinha, which means Little Ball in Portuguese.

Octavio Feline Foundation, Miami 786-752-2122 silvia@octaviofelinefoundation.org www.octaviofelinefoundation.org We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created to help elderly and handicap citizens in our community to spay/neuter their cats by providing the service they need. To help reduce the numbe of cats and kittens killed in our city due to the overpopulation problem.

In October 1999, I rescued a 4-week old tuxedo kitten. When he was tested for FIV/FeLV, he was positive for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus also known as Feline AIDS) When you test kittens and they are positive for FIV you must wait until they reach 6 months of age and repeat the test because by that time their mother’s antibodies are gone from their system. That was Octavio’s case, after the 6 months he was negative. I was so happy that my way of thanking God for his health was to open a checking account in his name so he could help other cats and kittens. Then I started considering the idea of opening my own organization. It took me almost 5 years but my dream came true!!!! Octavio Feline Foundation is now a reality!

Palm Beach Animal Care and Control 561-233-1200 • www.pbcgov.com/animal Animal Care and Control is part of Palm Beach County Government. Our shelter was started in 1969. We are located at 7100 Belvedere Road, West Palm Beach, Florida (five miles west of I-95). In 1974, the shelter became a division of the Public Safety Department. Programs and services were expanded to keep pace with the growing human and animal population. In 1980, the division became fully accredited by the Humane Society of the United States.

Animal Care and Control was the first agency in the southeast and the second in the entire nation to achieve this distinction.

Pit Crew Rescue 631-656-0211 • Billlee3034@aol.com www.PitCrewRescue.com The purpose of forming Pit Crew Rescue Inc. is to prevent abuse and cruelty to dogs, particularly the Pit Bull breed. We do this by providing foster homes for rescued dogs, education on the plight of the Pit Bull breed (the most abused & misunderstood breed of dogs). We also focus on the importance of spaying/ neutering & finally find a permanent loving home for our rescued dogs

Continued on page 32 48 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

THE AMAZING TREAT DIET FOR DOGS: HOW I SAVED MY DOG FROM OBESITY

by Katie Newman The inspiring true story of how Katie Newman saved her lab, Hustler, from obesity with a healthy, economical and easy to follow diet. It is a charming and heartening tale, cleverly intertwined with diet principles and guidelines, including meal servings, treat servings, and information on how weight affects the health of your dog and what you can do about it.

WWW.AMAZINGTREATDIET.COM AVAILABLE AT AMAZON.COM

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ANIMAL

RESCUE

GROUPS

Continued from page 30

Recycla-Bull Terrier Rescue, Inc. www.rcbtr.org Recycla-Bull Terrier Rescue is dedicated to the “3 R’s”: rescue, rehabilitation and re-homing of surrendered, abandoned, neglected and homeless Bull Terriers into loving, stable homes. As a shelterless rescue, all our dogs are fostered in home environments to evaluate their needs and prepare them for their forever homes.

News Flash!! RCBTR, Inc. has been granted 501(c)(3) tax exemption status effective August 16, 2011. All donations and contributions received since this date and in the future are tax free charitable donations!

Stray Aid & Rescue, Inc., Fort Lauderdale 954-816-0799 • mail@strayaid.org www.strayaid.org Stray Aid & Rescue, Inc is a 501 (C) 3, no-kill, not for profit rescue organization and provider of affordable spay/neuter services. Our mission: to stop pet overpopulation. We are doing this by providing affordable, high volume, quality care spaying/neutering services, promoting adoption of pets from shelters & rescue groups, educating our community about responsible pet ownership

50 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

The Cat Network 305-255-3482 • info@thecatnetwork.org www.thecatnetwork.org The Cat Network, Inc. (CN) is a 501(c)3, Florida not-for-profit corporation dedicated to humanely reducing cat overpopulation by educating the public about the need to sterilize their pets and strays; providing access to low-cost spay/ neuter services for stray, homeless and abandoned cats; helping members in their efforts to place adoptable cats in loving homes; and advocating non-lethal population control and humane public policy.

This is the Dog!

305-508-7387 • pets@thisisthedog.com www.thisisthedog.com

This Is The Dog! is a 501c3 non-profit animal adoption/rescue in Homestead.

Our main mission is to help solve the pet overpopulation problem. We will spay/neuter every animal before adoption and encourage the community to spay/neuter their pets. We firmly believe that the education of humane care of animals and spay/neuter programs are the answer and the hope in stopping pet overpopulation and animal abuse. Our goal is to teach the community to act responsibly in the care of their own pets while also looking out for those animals which are homeless. This is the Dog! does not have a shelter and we depend on community efforts to help us accomplish our mission. We are a small group of volunteers that are making a difference.

F U R R Y

F A C T S

WHAT IS A BULLY BREED? Bully breeds include dogs like the American Pit Bull Terrier, Boston Terriers, Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs and Boxers.They all come from the same root stock called Molosser, a breed that originated in ancient Greece. They were large dogs with big muscles and short muzzles. They were originally bred to protect livestock and property.

The wide range of bully breeds today come from selective breeding of Molossers with dogs like Old English bulldogs and mastiffs.

SOOTH YOUR PUPPY’S UPSET STOMACH If your pup has a case of doggy diarrhea, try feeding him plain boiled potatoes instead of dog food. Potatoes contain starch, which can help bind their stool. One large peeled and sliced potato three times a day is good for a large dog. Check with your vet for proper portions.

SOOTHING ITCHY SKIN Chamomile tea is a perfect way to sooth itchy pet skin.

Brew a cup, let it cool, then put it in a spray bottle. Mist your pet’s skin three or four times a day. Chamomile has compounds that sooth redness and calm inflammation.

It’s also good to keep your pet’s coat shiny.

GETTING YOUR CAT TO SLEEP IN HER OWN BED If you want to break your cat of the habit of sleeping with you, purchase a pet bed...then place a heating pad set on low on it for about 10 minutes. Unplug the pad and remove it. Cats love heat, so she’ll be attracted to the warm spot.

The heat is great for older cats too

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We’re the New Kids on the Block…

…and We Want You to Join Us to Help the South Florida Animal Rescue Community Take a look at the special offers we have for you. ✺ Take a ad in our online publication for an amazingly low rate.

You’ll receive a free website ad on www.fourpawsmagazine.org, invitations to write articles, plus promotion at events and via social media.

With top notch editorial and a beautiful, sophisticated style, Four Paws will inform the public about adopting shelter animals, fostering and much more plus put the spotlight on so many unsung heroes.

Remember, a percentage of receipts from every issue goes back to the animal rescue community of South Florida.

This is for animal rescue! There are stories to be told and information to get out there! We cannot make this labor of love work without YOU!!

Contact us at 754.484.7729 or sales@fourpawsmagazine.org

52 FOUR PAWS MAGAZINE • fourpawsmagazine.org

south florida’s animal rescue magazine

FourP ws south florida’s animal rescue magazine www.fourpawsmagazine.org