Delmarva Unleashed Nov Dec 2011

Vol. 3 Issue 6 - November/December 2011

Unleashed Delmarva

Complimentary

™

Model Search

Bark

of the Town

Alpha Up!

Holiday Product Showcase

Delmarva’s Own

Dog Cookie Bakery

DelmarvaUnleashed.com

Delmarva Unleashed

contents

Publisher Sandy Phillips Associate Publisher Farin Phillips

Vol. 3 Issue 6- Nov./Dec. 2011

Editor Lou Ann Hill Creative Sandy Phillips Farin Phillips

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Bark of the Town Holiday Tail Waggers Blood Work 101: Part 2b Alpha Up Delmarva’s Dog Cookie Bakery Cover Model Search

Contributing Writers Stephen Frolich John Maniatty, V.M.D. Nicole Lewis

pg 14

Grand Living Main Office Advertising Info: (410)726-7334 Cover: Winner of Delmarva Unleashed’s first Cover Model Search, Hera.

Hera is a Blue Marle Great Dane proudly owned by Krystle Gomez and Ronnie Brown of Frankford, DE.

Publisher’s Note I have to share with you the excitement of our Cover Model Search. Over 40 Delmarva dogs stepped up and strutted their stuff for Delmarva Unleashed’s first Cover Model Search, and what stuff they had! Beautiful dogs, bubbling with personality, jumped on the stage for their professional shoot. Big dogs, little dogs, pedigreed dogs and mutts, and it was all about them. If you didn’t follow the competition on Facebook, be sure to “like” us and enjoy other upcoming contests we have planned. Cover Model Search will return in 2012, at various locations across the shore! We hope you will join us for the fun.

As we move into colder weather and you spend more time indoors with your pets, take time from your busy life to just curl up with your best friend.

There is something truly special about a warm furry coat and a cold nose that just go together with a cup of cocoa.

From the staff of Delmarva Unleashed, we wish you a very warm holiday season.

Sandy

Max 2

Delmarva Unleashed

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Mr. Darcy

Marla

Bark of the Town Invisible Fence® Brand’s New Boundary Plus® Solution

The new “Pet” Scan A new study adds to the growing research that “man’s best friend” may really be able to smell cancer. The study, published in the European Respiratory Journal of Germany, found that dogs were able to pick up on the scent of organic compounds linked to the presence of lung cancer in a human body. This keen canine smelling ability could possibly be useful in the early detection of the disease.

In the study, four family dogs were asked to smell test tubes containing breath samples of 220 patients; some with lung cancer, and some without. In the group of dogs, two German Shepherds, one Australian Shepherd and a Labrador Retriever, the dogs were able to successfully identify lung cancer in 71 of 100 patients with the disease. Impressive statistics. I wonder if the insurance companies will cover an authentic “pet” scan.

“Retro” Pet Shampoo Kenic proudly introduces their "Retro" line of quality pet products. 1965 was when the "Pink Pup" was born. They have been making detergent and soap-free shampoos since the 60's. Now, in 2011, they are going back to their roots with this cool retro package. They have added Blue Bow Wow, a whitener and brightener. All the same quality you have come to know for decades. KENIC, an industry pioneer, is still family owned and operated. They want to thank all their loyal customers for 46 wonderful years in the pet industry.

Boundary Plus is a new, patented technology that provides greater piece of mind with maximum free space and maximum safety your pet. Providing up to 30% more play area for dogs and cats of all ages, breeds, and sizes, while enhancing Invisible Fence Brand’s, “Guaranteed Pet Containment.” This is especially important for smaller lots and busy roads in some of our local communities. Pets as young as 8 weeks old can start training with a certified trainer, using the veterinarian and behaviorist approved Perfect Start® Training Protocol.

On Delmarva, Boundary Plus is available exclusively through Invisible Fence Brand of Delmarva. See their ad in this issue!

Puppy Tweets Ever wonder what your dog is doing during the day while you work? Puppy Tweets™ can offer some clues.

It’s an electronic dog tag that sends messages to your home computer, then Tweets to you!

The tag is a sound and motion sensor that you attach to your pet’s dog collar, and connect its USB receiver to your computer. Whenever your dog moves or barks, the Puppy Tweets™ tag then detects and sends a Tweet via Twitter. You can follow your dog’s Twitter feed on your computer or Smart Phone all day. Puppy Tweets™ is a great way to brighten any pet owner’s day! A great stocking stuffer; $8 at amazon.com.

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{Holiday Tail Waggers} The Perfect Christmas Gift We’ve gathered some great holiday ideas for your pets this season.

These pages are full of quality items, from very eco-conscious manufactures, who truly have quality and your pets health in clear view.

The DU staff has also reviewed many of these products, look for their paw prints for a paws-up on their favorites.

Mr. Darcy

Max

Marla

Gourmet Indulgence

At Tail Bangers, you’ll find a selection of all-natural dog treats for your dog or puppy that are both healthy and flavorful. They offer a variety of all-natural dog bones, dog cookies, and other pet treats that come in gourmet flavors and shapes. Look for them in your local pet store bakery case. Great for horses too!

Prices vary.

Squeaky Snowman Buddy

For the soft and squeaky toy lover, Planet Dog is introducing the perfect companion to its popular Gingerbread Buddy — the Squeaky Snowman Buddy. Soft and plush and standing 9” tall, these toys are just right for medium to large dogs who love to have a buddy around at all times. They are made with super-soft fleece and a doublebellow squeaker for a cozy snuggle under the tree or a very satisfying, squeaky chew.

MSRP: $9.95

FUR Dry Wearable Dog Towel

FURminator® Inc., the company known for its innovative solutions to prevent pet shedding, is offering a new, exciting pet product — FUR Dry Wearable Dog Towels. FUR Dry provides an effortless way for dog owners to dry their canine companions while calming them and keeping carpets, furniture and cars protected from a wet, smelly pet.

MSRP: $24.95-$49.95

Cat Natural Purrz Natural Purrz from Zukes are the perfect way to keep your kitty companion purring.

They’re soft, delicious treats packed with USDA chicken or wild-caught salmon, a whole-food source of omega 3 fish oil. And because they’re healthy (only 3 calories each), you’ll feel good treating your cat to them everyday. You can both be happy about that. Your kitty will be so grateful they may even trade in knocking things off your coffee table for snuggling...maybe.

MSRP: $3.45- $3.80

Bark if you’re Dirty Barktini Blends from Glo-Marr Products, Inc. This fun, innovative, award-winning shampoo, offers natural shampoos and spritzers for use on dogs and cats. Friends don’t let friends bathe their pets in anything other than Barktini Blends products.

Remember to bathe responsibly.

MSRP: $9.99- $12.99 4

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GoughNuts

A virtually Indestructible (and guaranteed) chew toy! The GoughNuts dog chew toy is a thick and bouncy rubber ring, stick or ball with two layers. The inner patented safety indicator layer is red. If your dog chews through the outside green or black layer to the red layer, you should take the toy away from your dog and return it for your free replacement toy.

Prices vary with size.

Snoutstik

Opie & Dixie created Snoutstik™ to help alleviate dry dog noses caused by exposure to the elements, allergies or heredity. But any dog’s nose will find relief with Snoutstik™’s core combination of healing, natural sunscreens, shea butter, sweet almond oil and jojoba seed oil.

MSRP: $3.99

Pugz

For warmth and protection from harsh weather conditions, bundle up your pup with Pugz! The adorably designed, faux leather and faux wool shoes provide comfort and keep your pet’s paws dry in any weather!

Plus, their breathable, cushioned fabric sole promises no more claw scratches to hard wood floors. With an adjustable hook and loop strap, Pugz are a secure fit for every pooch!

MSRP: $20.00

Jerky Naturals

With Jerky Naturals from Zukes you can give your dog a treat every time they do something cute. Which we know, is just about all the time. Unlike ordinary biscuits, Jerky Naturals are moist and healthy — made with real USDA beef, New Zealand lamb or wild-caught salmon as the #1 ingredient, plus fresh blueberries, carrots, apples, and ground flax seed. And because they are good for your dog it makes them the treat you can feed anytime, anywhere.

MSRP: $5.84- $6.42

Uncle Jimmy’s Hangin’ Balls

Uncle Jimmy’s Hangin’ Balls are the perfect treat for your horse. He or she will spend hours trying to lick and grab the entertaining ball! Not only is it great tasting, it’s packed with vitamins and minerals essential for the horse’s everyday needs.

MSRP: $19.95

Pet Flags

Show your pet pride this holiday season with a festive flag. Available in a variety of designs to compliment any home, from Evergreen.

MSRP: prices vary with design

www.grandlivingmag.com

Delmarva Unleashed

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Doggie Dinners Tail Bangers, introduces Doggie Dinners! They are perfect for the finicky dog who expects a chicken breast or hamburger for dinner. Even a dog with a sensitive stomach on a vet specified diet of boiled chicken and rice or hamburger and rice, will benefit from these fantastic meals. This convenient, freeze-dried product is a complete and balanced, home-cooked, doggie dinner.

MSRP: $8

Classic Canine Stocking Planet Dog's new Classic Canine Stocking features traditional holiday tartan colors. This soft fleece stuffable stocking is 100% lined and includes a soft white Berber fleece cuff, making it easy to personalize.

MSRP: $14.95

Wholistic Wild Deep Sea Salmon Oil

Wholistic Deep Sea Salmon Oil™ for pets is the finest quality human-grade, salmon oil from the body of fresh-caught salmon. Rich in EPA and DHA, it is the perfect combination of Omega-3's and Omega- 6's that is naturally present in freshly-harvested salmon straight from the cold waters of the North Atlantic!

It helps to maintain a healthy skin and coat and promote strong immune, cardiovascular and nervous systems.

MSRP $24.99

On the Go Food & Water Bowl

Planet Dogs’s popular bowl is back in new colors!

Collapsible, rollable, stuffable, and very packable.

Keep one in the glovebox, one in your backpack, and one up your sleeve for any occasion when you leave the house. The Travel Bowl pops open for easy access and sits flat for stability. The perfect traveling companion for your favorite travel companion.

MSRP: $10.95-$12.95

Loofa Dog Bed The padded bottom and donut shaped plush top will make this bed your dog’s favorite spot in the house. Inspired by the widely recognized Loofah Dog Toy, this bed is perfect for your puppy, small or medium dog, or cat! Available in assorted colors.

MSRP: $19.99

Healing Paw Balm Whether dry, cracked, calloused or sore, Opie & Dixie’s Healing Paw Balm will hydrate, heal and protect your pup’s painful paw pads. Not recommended for cut, blistered or torn pads.

MSRP: $14.95

Zukes Z-Bones It’s natural. Dogs love to put dirt covered tennis balls and slimy sticks in their mouths. Z-Bones is natural too. It’s loaded with powerful breath freshening herbs and healthy wholefood antioxidants. The delicious, grain free formula is easy to digest and has the ideal texture to help scrape and polish teeth. One Z-Bone a day will keep Doggy Breath away!

MSRP: $2.00- $5.00

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Tumbler

Evergreen offers the perfect tumbler for the on the go pet owner. Insulated to keep your beverage at the desired temperature, Evergreen tumblers are dishwasher safe and break resistant.

MSRP: $9.99

Holiday Buddy Biscuits

Looking for a perfect gift for your favorite canine this holiday season? Cloud Star’s Holiday Buddy Biscuit Gingerbread Treats will be a big a hit. These delicious doggie biscuits come packaged in a festive holiday box and feature a favorite seasonal flavor, gingerbread! Great for a holiday stocking stuffer for the favorite pooches in your life.

MSRP: $5.99

Organic Bumper Bed The Organic Bumper Bed® is made with a removable organic cotton cover, helping our Earth by reducing the amount of chemicals we put into the ground. The cushion used on the inside of the donut dog bed is made from 100% recycled IntelliLoft®, which was previously plastic soda bottles. Since it takes less energy to clean and recycle plastic bottles than it does to make new plastic, you are not only helping keep plastic from going to landfills, but lowering the carbon footprint too. With a clean fresh feel, there is no better dog bed out there for your pooch, for you, and for the environment. Try it out with your allergic, sensitive or orthopedic pups.

MSRP: $79.20

Ho Ho Hair Ball

Ask Santa to bring your cat a Ho Ho Hair Ball cat toy this year. Perfect for kitty's stocking, this little cat toy is a ball of festive fur that will entertain the most finicky of felines for hours. Filled with extremely potent USDA certified Organic Catnip, and an enticing bell, this jolly little holiday cat toy will prove to be the best gift ever...Ho Ho Hair Ball, hacking up fun in assorted colors!

MSRP: $11.00

Busy Buddy Bouncy Bone

Stimulate your pet with the interactive Bouncy Bone toys.

The design of the durable nylon bone & rubber ball provides dogs with an extended chewing experience - irresistible Gnawhide® treats last longer than giving treats alone & dogs are stimulated to chew the toy well after the treats are gone.

Toy unscrews to load treats and clean. Comes packed with three sets of treats. Available in four sizes, and additional Gnawhide treat rings sold separately.

MSRP: $7.99- $25.99

www.grandlivingmag.com

Delmarva Unleashed 7

Blood Work 101: Part 2b A Reference

by John Maniatty, V.M.D.

In the last issue we covered liver, kidney, and parathyroid tests. Now to finish the major parts of the blood panel: thyroid, pancreas, and electrolytes.

Thyroid - Produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. This controls the use of energy in the body.

T4 - The thyroid hormone we most commonly measure.

Majority is bound to proteins keeping it from being active. Free T4 is unbound and can enter into cells readily to stimulate energy synthesis and use. Converted to T3 once in the cells.

T3 - Similar to T4 but is much more potent. Does not last long once released in the blood stream.

TSH - Thyroid Stimulating hormone- Produced in the Pituitary gland stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T4/T3.

The levels of T4/T3 control secretion of TSH. Low levels trigger production and release, and high levels trigger the stopping of production and release. In cases of hypothyroidism high levels are found since the thyroid gland is not producing much T4/T3.

Treatment for hypothyroidism is synthetic thyroid hormone to replace what the body is not producing. This is seen in dogs but rarely in cats. Cats are more prone to hyperthyroid, this is overproduction of T4/T3. Since these are one of the only hormones that use iodine in its production, then an iodine uptake inhibitor is used to slow the production.

Pancreas - Organ in the abdomen. It secretes digestive enzymes that are activated while traveling down the duct that connects it to the small intestine. These enzymes help break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. It also produces hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which it releases into the blood stream.

Glucose - Blood sugar that is controlled by insulin and glucagon. If blood sugar is high it releases insulin, which transports glucose into the cells for it to be used for energy and lowers the blood levels. If it does not produce enough insulin then the pet becomes diabetic. Treatment usually consists of insulin injections and diet changes. If blood sugar is low then glucagon is released to trigger the liver to convert glycogen to glucose and release it in the blood.

Amylase - Enzyme used in the breakdown of carbohydrates.

Measured to help rule out pancreatitis. Released into the blood stream when the pancreatic cells are damaged. Not very specific, since it’s found in other organs, so it’s not used to solely diagnose pancreatitis.

Lipase - Enzyme produced in the pancreas to aid in the digestion of fats. More specific then amylase. Not a 100% diagnostic for pancreatitis. Some animals with normal pancreases will have raised levels. That is why having base line blood work done to know what is normal for your pet is important.

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Electrolytes - The main ones we measure are Sodium, Potassium, and Chloride. They work at the cellular level to maintain health and function. They also help control water and fluid flow in the body; create electrical charges, contract muscles and several other functions. The two main organs that produce hormones to regulate electrolytes are the kidneys and adrenal glands.

Sodium - Is found mostly outside the cells. This helps create an electrical gradient across the cell membrane and allows it to fire an electrical charge. This specifically helps the nervous system to work correctly. Sodium also helps attract water into and out of areas. An example of this is in the kidneys were special cellular pumps pull sodium out of the urine and put it back into the blood stream. Water follows the sodium being pumped out into the blood stream. High levels are usually dietary in nature and can lead to dehydration as excess is excreted in the urine and pulls water with it. Low can also be diet, but usually points to either kidney or adrenal disease.

Potassium - Found inside the cell. Works with sodium producing an electrical gradient across the cell membrane. Potassium is being excreted while sodium is being taken in the kidneys.

Chloride - Found both inside and outside the cells helps control fluid flow in and out of cells. Helps maintain blood ph, blood pressure and blood volume. Diet can cause high levels and loss through the gastrointestinal tract, i.e. vomiting or diarrhea can cause lower levels.

Dr. John Maniatty is a board-certified veterinarian in practice at the Ocean City Animal Hospital, Ocean City, MD, and now at the Ocean View Animal Hospital, Ocean View, DE.

All Paws Large and Small

Doggie Daycare Dog Walking Pet Sitting

West Ocean City, MD

Rose Stivers

410.726.4692

Maximum Safety & Freedom, Guaranteed!

© 2011 Invisible Fence, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Only Invisible Fence® Brand pet-minded experts can offer the right combination of step-by-step training, professional installation, experience and exclusive technology to bring you a trusted containment solution. Our exclusive Boundary Plus® technology gives your pet up to 30% more safe

Warm Holiday Wishes from the staff of Paws & Claws

410.213.7490 11934 Ocean Gateway (Rt. 50E) 443-664-6261 11805 Coastal Highway, OC

play area no matter how small the property. Let us show you how we can bring harmony to your home and a better quality of life for you and your pet. Contact us today for your FREE demonstration and estimate!

Invisible Fence Brand of Delmarva

410.546.2436 • 888.317.2436 InvisibleFence.com

OtterTail Pet Resort For their vacation

SAVE $150

On a Dealer Installed Boundary Plus Outdoor Solution. ®

Call For Details.

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Luxury All-Inclusive Dog & Cat Boarding

We always welcome new clients and pets.

Come meet our doctors and staff!

• Central Heating & Air • Boutique • Secured & Gated Facility • Spa Services • Doggie Daycare • VeRus Pet Foods

All guests received by appointment.

Please call us today!

www.OtterTailPetResort.com Delmar, DE

302-846-CARE (2273)

Vaccines, Complete Wellness Care, Diagnostic , Medical Care & Surgery Boarding & Grooming Loyalty Program

VCA Delmarva “Where your pet’s health is our top priority and Animal Hospital excellent service is 10311 Old Ocean City Blvd.

Berlin, MD www.vcadelmarva.com

410.629.1800

our goal”

Mon. & Tues. 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Wed. - Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Sat. 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. *Offer good only for general veterinary services

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I

t is truly amazing how easy television "Dog Whisperers," professional trainers, and groomers can quickly calm and correct a dog with behavior problems or anxiety issues. To a layman, it appears magical, how quickly Fluffy and Cujo respond. The true source of the trainer's ability comes from within them. But the truth is, that YOU have that same ability and influence. You just may not know how to tap into it and use it...yet.

Animals (ourselves included) are acutely attuned to "energy" for their own survival. Mother Nature gives them the tools to help maximize energy detection, disguise it, or communicate with it. Unlike the energy that keeps a light on, this energy is the "feeling it in your gut" type. We tend to lose our awareness of these signals due to our dependence on language.

Dogs, however, are especially aware, and this is one of the primary reasons why experienced trainers are so effective. A good trainer is alert to what the dog is projecting with body posture, eye glances and tail position. With their specialized experience, a trainer can literally adjust their own levels towards the dog. Being conscious that some dogs require strong leadership, while others a calm gentleness to build trust.

As pack animals, dogs need a strong leader. Not every person has the desire to be a powerful CEO, and not every dog WANTS to be a Pack Leader. Don't feel bad stepping up; your dog will thank you. But be forwarned, if you won't "Alpha Up" for your dog, they will take the role themselves. They do this because from your dog's point of view the "pack/household" needs a leader in order to be healthy.

Trainers and dog whispers are specialized Alpha Leaders.

Their experience and certification brings new techniques and methods to assist you in regaining your psychological position.

Your dog sees you (the owner) following the expert's commands in class and thinks, " This person sure is a powerful pack leade.

Maybe I should listen to him."

Regardless, if this is your first dog or 15th there are small, easy things you can do everyday to maintain (or gain) your leadership role so your pup is able to thrive in your household.

Master your Mind: Believe it or not, your dog CAN'T speak English. They can recognize the repetition of tonal qualities of the same word, but no matter how many times you try to explain to them not to be afraid of the door bell, a stranger is coming over, or a monthly bath, they will never understand the meanings of the words. What they will react to is your energy level.

They will respond accordingly during those times. If you are nervous, they will be too. For example: you see a dog ahead in the distance. Because of past history you think "Uh, Oh another dog! What's going to happen?!" All your dog understands is that, as that instantaneous thought crossed your mind, your energy signal and biology unconsciously changed and now your dog is on high alert. All senses are open, pupils widen, ears alert, nose active, and all because you are emitting an anxious energy.

He may not know about the other dog yet, but when he does, your dog thinks, "Ah-ha, that's why Daddy is nervous….attack, protect, defend, flee!!!"

This thought process lesson can be applied to any situation.

YOU prime the powder keg, the dog targets the object of your energy, regardless of logic. It could very well be the vacuum, a stranger, or the doorbell ringing. If YOU expect the dog to be anxious during a bath, then don't be surprised if it is a horrific experience. The dog is just following the ALPHA's lead.

Alpha Up

by Stephen Frolich

But if ALPHA has his head high, and shoulders back with clear direction, and the aire of "I'm not nervous and you shouldn't be either," your dog will follow that energy as well.

Command Space: Every time you step around or over your dog, you send a very clear message, “I'm weak.” Your space is more important than mine. Alpha's NEVER step around…. they step THROUGH! This doesn't mean you kick your dog out of the way, but it does mean you have to envision yourself as a snow plow clearing an object. Every time you approach your pup, slide your feet under their body and give them a little nudge. Keep shuffling forward until the dog gets the message and moves. Do this for a week and when your dog sees you coming he will step aside, right before you get there.

Sing for your supper: Going for a walk? Give a command before opening the door. It doesn't really matter if the command is "Sit" or "Pay my taxes." It's a psychological power play that YOU made your dog do something for you, and YOU rewarded them with a nice brisk walk outside.

Watch your tone: As humans we tend to nurture our loved ones. When our dog is "scared," we say in a high pitch tone, " It's Okay, Mommy's here." In laboratories energy creates "high sounds" (not volume, but frequency). However, to your dog, high pitches are excited praise energy. Your dog feels, "Wow, Mommy likes the way I'm acting, I'll do it more," and a loop is created.

We comfort over and over, so the dog thinks it's getting MORE praise for it’s actions.

With these simple tools, you can learn to become your own magical dog whisperer as well. Head up! Shoulders back! Good luck...Woof!

Stephen Frolich is the owner of “Tails n’ Tubs” in Salisbury, MD.

Bryan & Brittingham, Inc. Your Full Service Feed & Hardware Store Bi-State Blvd. - Delmar, DE www.bryanandbrittingham.com

302-846-9500 Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:00

Sat. 7:30-3:00

Christmas Open House Dec. 2nd & 3rd

Ocean City Animal Hospital & Ocean View Animal Hospital Quality Medicine with a Caring Heart

Happy Holidays from South Paw Pet Resort

Available M-Th. 24 hrs.

Open Fri. & Sat.

Dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets & pocket pets.

John Maniatty, V.M.D. Anne Flood, D.V.M. MaryHelen Staruch, V.M.D.

410.213.1170 11843 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City

www.oceancityvet.com

302.539.2273 118 Atlantic Ave., Suite 101, Ocean View, DE

www.oceanviewanimalhospital.com

Now Accepting Holiday Reservations Scheduling Holiday Bathing & Grooming

Because your pets deserve the best.

410-835-BARK (2275) 8004 Burnt Mill Road Willards, MD

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Delmarva’s Own Dog Cookie Bakery L

by Sandy Phillips

isa St. Clair grew up around chocolate, and having a passion for the business, she went on to study the culinary arts.

Sometime later, when she began fixing meals for her dogs, she realized there may be an opportunity for a business, making high-quality, natural dog food. After finding that the demand for her new product was overwhelming, she backed up a bit to learn more about the logistics of manufacturing.

To get her hands on education, Lisa began developing highquality, all natural dog treats, and Tail Bangers was born. The tasty cookies have no bi-products, artificial colors or preservatives. They are made with 100% whole grains, real eggs, cheese, bacon and fresh ground peanuts. Seven years ago, Lisa put her skills to work in her own kitchen, and then quickly outgrew the work from home environment. Today, Lisa employees 26 people in her Longneck factory. She boasts one of the largest dog bakeries on the Eastern Seaboard.

At Tail Bangers, all ingredients are human grade. All cookies are hand rolled and cut, as well as hand decorated. “We have a signature look and image we project for our cookies. Many people recognize them, even if the bakery case is not marked with our brand,” says Lisa. “We also private label for large companies and can do custom treats for special events.” Thousands of tasty dog treats leave the factory each day and are shipped to over 1,200 retail locations, across Delmarva and as far west as Chicago. Looking to the future, Lisa has plans for expansion to the west coast, already in sight. “People see their dogs as family and like to treat them as well as they would their own children.

Tail Bangers are wonderful, healthy treats with real nutrition in mind. The shapes change with the seasons and celebrate all major

holidays, so there is always something fun to take home to your best friend.”

Now, after five and a half years, establishing a very successful gourmet dog cookie business, and working out many of the logistics of production and shipping, Lisa has come full circle with her plans for a dog food line. In October of this year, she released Tail Bangers freeze-dried Doggie Dinners. Already recommended by local veterinarians as an excellent choice for pets with sensitive stomachs, the Doggie Dinners are sure to take center stage at your local pet food store.

In the maze that is pet food today, the Doggie Dinners fall fairly close to the “raw diet,” because of their nutritional content. “Canned foods can often lose their nutritional value during the canning process. Freeze dried foods maintain their original shape, texture and nutritional integrity, unlike dehydrated foods, which shrink and shrivel, due to high temperature processing when the water is removed. Freeze-drying removes the water but preserves the nutritional content and the flavor,” says Tail Bangers. The products can be stored at room temperature, without deterioration or spoilage, and are great for the pet owner, who would like to cook for their pet, but just can’t find the time. Simply add water and warm. The new dog foods are available in both chicken and beef and are completely balanced for your pet’s overall nutrition.

Whether you are looking for a treat for your best friend, or looking for a daily meal that plays a part in a healthy canine lifestyle, Tail Bangers has what you need. Look for their irresistible canine cookies in the bakery case at your local pet store. Psst… we hear birds and horses love them too!

Santa “Claws” Pet Portraits And Open House

Pawsitively Exciting Events

Unleash the holiday spirit by attending our

Mid November 2011 - December 2011

Holiday Open House December 1-4th.

10-5 p.m. - Thurs.- Sat., 11-5 p.m. Sun.

Nov. 17

Bring your family & pets to have amazing holiday portrait taken with Santa * Photography provided by Elite Imagery Studio.

Yappy Hour — To benefit the Wicomico Humane Society Brew River, Salisbury 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

410-677-6757 Sorry, humans only!

Nov. 22

Millville Pet Stop — Holiday Portraits Millville Pet Stop, Millville 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

302-539-9382

Bring this Delmarva Unleashed ad & receive 10 free postcards or 10% off your next grooming when booked before February 1, 2012.

Book Your Holiday Grooming Early! www.tailsntubs.com 810 Beaglin Park Drive, Salisbury, MD Next to the Old West Steakhouse

443.736.7441

*or without if you prefer.

Dec. 1-4

Tails n’ Tubs— Open House & Pet Portraits with Santa 10-5 p.m. Thurs- Sat. 11-5 p.m. - Sun. Tails n’ Tubs, Salisbury 443-736-7441

Dec. 2-3

Bryan & Brittingham — Christmas Open House Bryan & Brittingham, Delmar Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sat: 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

302-846-9500

Dec. 3

Santa Paws & Mrs. Claws —Pet Photos to benefit the SPCA Millville Pet Stop, Millville 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

302-539-9382

Fact: Pet’s Delivered After New Year’s Adjust to Their New Home More Quickly.

1. Make your pet selection now.

2. Give a collar & leash, a dog bed or bowl for Christmas.

3. Plan to deliver your pet after the holiday chaos.

Adoption Hours Tues.- Sat.11 am - 5 pm

410-749-7603

5130 Citation Dr., Salisbury, MD www.grandlivingmag.com

Delmarva Unleashed

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Cover Model Search – Finalists Congratulations to our finalist! Each finalist not appearing on the cover received a $20 gift certificate to Paws & Claws.

Finalist

Finalist

Finalist

Finalist

The Staff Perspective So many of these dogs would make great cover dogs. In reality, there are several years of holiday covers here, and possibly two other 2012 covers amongst the entire group of dogs!

Finalist were chosen by popular vote on Facebook. Those five finalists were reviewed by our professional photographer for photographic correctness and over all “cover presence.” While we agree that the fore running dogs of the popular vote had great photos, there are other dogs we wanted to mention.

A very expressive dog. Its quizzical look makes you feel she is speaking directly to you.

Honorable Mention Popular Vote

Who says dogs can’t smile?

Personality just shines here. This dog owns the scarf it’s wearing and knows he looks good in it.

Regal and very attentive.

This dog just screams classic “waterdog.”

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Delmarva Unleashed

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Relaxed and expressive.

Can’t you just imagine this dog catching a snowflake on its tongue?

The dog that will still smile, no matter what the photographer asks for.

Many Qualified Candidates