Maryland Dog Mag-Winter 2020

Winter 2019

The Love Leads Project

www.MarylandDogMag.com

Crate Training Basics Winter Boredom Busters

winter 2019

table of contents 10

6 I

The Dish Local Information

8 I

BARCS From Home to Home Fundraising Campaign

10 I

Feature The Love Leads Project

14

16

I

Homemade Dog Biscuit Recipes

16 I

Good Behavior Crate Training Basics

20 I

Coping Tips When you lose your best friend

22

I

Dog Dental Care

23

I

Best of the Fest Winners

26

I

Winter Boredom Busters

27 I

Paw Picks Books you’ll love

28 I Website and Calendar information

30

I

Advertising Index

26 www.marylanddogmag.com I 3

contributing writers PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Joan Allen is passionate about dogs and their welfare, Joan has volunteered

as a Dog Deputy for the Baltimore SPCA, has written for Baltimore Dog Magazine, The Baltimore Sun, The Washington Post, Baltimore Magazine, and many other publications. She is the author of Celebrating Single and Getting Love Right: From Stalemate to Soulmate, and editor of The Super Anti-Oxidant Diet and Nutrition Guide. In addition, Joan has a pet sitting business, Eat, Love, Walk!

Elisabeth Catalano, MA, GDIP, CDBC, CPDT-KA,

is a professional dog trainer and behavior counselor with more than 20 years of experience in dealing with canine behavior problems. She is the Director of Behavior and Training of The Coventry School, Inc. for Dogs and Their People. Elisabeth is skilled in behavior modification techniques and is committed to scientifically based animal training and the use of positive reinforcement methods. She is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and The Animal Behavior Society.

Veronica Van Hof –Memorial Park Director of The Baltimore Humane

Society Memorial Park for two years. The Baltimore Humane Society Memorial Park is a historic cemetery dedicated entirely to pets and is located on our certified wildlife habitat. Veronica’s background is in wildlife biology. She has three dogs, all seniors. Veronica is a certified pet-loss counselor and an InSight-certified funeral celebrant. Veronica also runs the monthly loss group.

Maryland Dog Magazine is proudly brought to you by these community sponsors.

Visit our website for more information.

Sharon Scholze sharon@marylanddogmag.com PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT

Amanda Scholze CREATIVE DIRECTOR & GRAPHIC DESIGN

Sarah Davis www.sarahpdavis.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Joan Allen Elisabeth Catalano Veronica Van Hof MULTIMEDIA

Tiam Media WEBSITE

Locable Publishers Network Maryland Dog Magazine is published quarterly by Tiam Media. Copies are available in locations throughout Maryland. Subscriptions are available for $14.95 per year. Subscription payments can be mailed to P.O. Box 3062, Westminster, MD 21158.

Visit www.marylanddogmag.com for more information or call 410-812-9223.

The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Maryland Dog Magazine with all rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher.

Maryland Dog Magazine and Tiam Media does not endorse or guarantee any product, service, or vendor mentioned or pictured in this magazine in editorial or advertising.

Views expressed by writers or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher.

www.marylanddogmag.com facebook.com/Marylanddogmag

Visit www.marylanddogmag.com and like us on Facebook. Connect with fellow Maryland Dog readers and share photos, story ideas and news. Get regular updates on events, adoptions, news, and products.

WINTER 2019 I 4

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Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation for Canine Athletes and Companions

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the dish

BARCS Vets & Pets: Fostering to Make a Lifesaving Difference BARCS recently announced the Baltimore Vets & Pets Foster Program with the Baltimore Research and Education Foundation (BREF). This new program encourages veterans in the Baltimore area to invite a shelter animal into their home for foster care. Grants secured by BREF provide all the resources veterans will need, such as food, crate, training (as needed), bed, collar, leash and bowls. Veterans only need to open their home and heart.

As an open-admission shelter, BARCS cares for 12,000 animals over the year. While they do their best to provide love and care for every animal based on their individual needs, some dogs and cats, especially those from difficult situations, need extra TLC in a foster home, away from the chaos of shelter life. Veterans, in particular, understand the lingering effects of hardship. They can provide a safe and loving home for an animal in need, and the animal offers unconditional love in return.

To participate in the Baltimore Vets & Pets Foster Program, veterans simply need to come to BARCS and mention the program. From there, our adoption counselors will match the foster with the dog that will best fit their needs and lifestyle.

The Vets & Pets program was made possible by a generous grant from the TowerCares Foundation.

MD SPCA invites students to participate in the Maryland SPCA’s 7th Annual Kindness for Paws Art Show!

All artistic abilities are welcome!

Each class registered will receive digital photos of pets adopted from the Maryland SPCA. Every child should choose one photo to create as a piece of art.

All art must measure 7 inches tall x 9 inches wide and be created in a landscape format. The Maryland SPCA will provide the school with matting for each picture created. Teacher’s name and grade of student should be written on the back of every piece of art. All pieces will be displayed publicly for an Art Show in early 2020, date TBD. All art must be submitted to the Maryland SPCA by Friday, January 31st, 2020 to take part in the Art Show. If you are interested in having your class participate, please register at mdspca.org/artshowregistration.

Questions? Please contact Amber Guthrie, Education Manager, at aguthrie@mdspca.org or by phone at (410) 235-8826 ext. 128.

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Baltimore Humane Society - Behind the Scenes Experience Experience what it takes to be an animal caretaker at a no-kill animal shelter. Glamour work, it’s not. But rewarding, absolutely.

You’ll be helping shelter staff with assorted daily chores necessary to keep the animals staying with us well fed and cared for. Each morning the chores begin and last for a few hours. You’ll be helping to clean dog kennels, clean cat cages, prepare meals, launder and whatever other task may be necessary that day. You may also help make enrichment toys to keep the animals stimulated. You may have the opportunity to shadow staff through the match-making process for potential adopters. End your time with a social visit with one of our shelter pets. Take a walk around our beautiful 365-acre wildlife sanctuary, enjoy the beauty, and take pride in helping those who don’t have a voice of their own.

This experience can be adapted for children as young as 5 to give them a behind the scenes look at humane care and a chance to meet and greet shelter pets! Visit https://bmorehumane.org/behind-the-scenes-experience/ for additional information and to make reservations for this experience.

Furry Friends and Lunch Buddies Visits with The Humane Society of Harford County The Humane Society of Harford County recently introduced their Furry Friends program. The objective is to bring their animals into assisted living centers to bring companionship and spread joy among residents. One of their own animal ambassadors will visit during a convenient time and offer residents the opportunity to cuddle and interact with one of our dogs. Additionally, the animals benefit enormously from the extra love and attention.

The new Lunch Buddies program is based on a successful pilot with one of our local business partners. The objective is to bring our resident animals into the community to meet a broad range of potential adopters.

The animals are transported to the office building during a company’s typical lunch time and offer employees the opportunity to cuddle with our pups.

In the days or weeks leading up to your Lunch Buddies date, you may choose to promote a way for your employees to support the Humane Society. You might offer, for example, the opportunity for employees to pay $5 to wear jeans to work on the day of the event or $10 to be able to bring their dog to work one day. Alternatively, you might run a raffle or silent auction in the break room, with proceeds supporting HSHC, or run a donation drive for items from our Wish List. These are just a few of the activities we would be happy to discuss with you should you be interested in pursuing an event at your office. To thank you for your fundraising efforts on our behalf, we offer to your employees a 20% discount off pet adoptions for seven days following your Lunch Buddies event date.

To schedule any of these visit types, contact our Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator at 410.836.1090 x104

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BARCS – From Hope to Home Fundraising Campaign “Saving lives and being a resource to our community begins with compassion, thrives on innovation and transparency, and grows with heart... a whole lot of heart.”

BARCS, once called “the underdog” has made amazing strides in saving animals in need by increasing the live-release rate from 2% (in 2004 prior to BARCS) to more than 90% in 2018. Caring for more than 180,000 animals since BARCS inception in 2005.

A brief history; in 2005, the City of Baltimore divided the animal shelter into two separate organizations: The Bureau of Animal Control, which would handle animal welfare enforcement for the City, and Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS), a private nonprofit organization to manage shelter operations. BARCS was founded to be a humane animal shelter that could act as a safe haven for animals in need. While BARCS receives a small operations grant from Baltimore City for basic support, they are a private nonprofit that relies on donations to do their lifesaving work for homeless animals.

Through the support from the community, private donations, volunteers and fosters BARCS has continued WINTER 2019 I 8

to grow and save animals in need. The need for an improved and larger space has been evident for years.

The shelter has become too old and small for their current rate of growth, and the equipment is out of date and inefficient. The new building will provide BARCS with a much-needed upgrade for the deserving animals as well as their dedicated volunteers and hardworking staff.

BARCS is scheduled to relocate to a new facility located at 2490 Giles Road in the Cherry Hill community in southern Baltimore City. The move is set to take place in early 2020 upon completion of construction.

BARCS' shelter relocation fundraising campaign titled From Hope to Home has a goal of raising $500,000, in addition to their annual operating budget, by the conclusion of 2019.

The new facility on Giles Road will have the following: • The outfitting of expanded veterinary exam space and surgery facilities • New post-surgery recovery cages • An X-ray machine and cold laser therapy device

• Free-roaming group cat rooms • New spaces for farm animals, small mammals and reptiles • A newly constructed dog play yard • Newer and more up to date IT equipment • Additional equipment, supplies, educational materials to support the expansion of space and programs Donations will make all the difference as BARCS continue to improve the state of animal welfare in Baltimore City, work with pet owners in crisis to find the best possible outcomes, and care for 12,000 homeless, abused and neglected animals.

There are many different opportunities to generously donate.

NAMING OPPORTUNITIES Contact give@barcs.org to claim a naming opportunity at our new facility for yourself, a beloved pet or a person you wish to honor.

GIFTS OF CASH The easiest and most direct way of supporting BARCS’ relocation project is a gift of cash.

SCHEDULE A RECURRING MONTHLY DONATION Recognizing that many caring people may not have the capacity to make a sizable gift at any one time, BARCS suggests the alternative of making a smaller gift on a monthly basis.

GIFTS OF STOCK Avoid capital gains through a gift of highly appreciated stock while taking a full value deduction on your tax returns.

MATCHING GIFTS Many corporate employers will match their employees’ gift to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. If your company has such a program, please request their matching gift form and send the completed form to us. We will take care of the rest.

Please visit, www.barcs.org/newhome to donate and for additional information.

www.marylanddogmag.com I 9

feature

BY: JOAN ALLEN

It was a lucky day for pets and police officers everywhere when a stray dog appeared at Adam Lippe’s home in Sparks, MD. Lippe, the Assistant State’s Attorney for the Office of the State’s Attorney in Baltimore County, heads the Economic Crimes Unit, and is prosecutor for and head of the Animal Abuse Unit.

“I’ve won 100% of the cases against animal abusers that I’ve prosecuted, and I don’t have any problem getting people arrested.”

Lippe’s passion for animals, giving back to the community, and just plain old serendipity, was the impetus for creating the Love Leads Project.

“About four years ago, my son, Braun, and I were outside of our SUMMER 2019 I 10

home and spotted a dog. The dog didn’t have a collar. So, I reported it and when the officer arrived, she didn’t have a rope or a leash, so I gave her a leash. She was able to secure the dog and bring it to safety.”

Love leads is a unique collaboration dedicated to saving dogs and preventing animal abuse and neglect Then a lightbulb flashed in Lippe’s brain. “I thought, wow, providing free leashes for officers would be a great service project for Braun and me, and that was how the Love

Leads Project came about,” says Lippe.

His son, Braun, 17, explains, “My dad and I wanted to do something new and with his work at the Animal Abuse Unit, it kind of took off from there.

“At first, we made 10 leashes and gave some to close friends; then we reached out to police officers, and to precincts around the country. Now every single precinct in Maryland has them.

Braun explains, “Having a lead in their cars serves as a reminder that officers have a means to secure the animal and take it to a shelter.”

Lippe says he uses 10 feet of rope to make the leashes at $1.00 a foot. “With the request for leashes expanding every day, I knew I would

climbing rope. Adam came up with the creation of the leash and how to make them.

When Lippe mentioned the project to Adriane Watson, former director of marketing for Pet+ER in Towson, she donated a bench and an electrical rope cutter, and provided the electrical conduit connectors.

Lippe says, “Pet+ER promotes the free leashes and provides the metal connectors so I can screw the ropes together. There are two connectors on each end, one for the loop and one for the lead.”

April Doherty and The Love Leads Project donate leashes to Jen Swanson with The Humane Society of Harford County.

need help from the community to help cover rope, connectors and screws, and shipping.”

April Doherty, who works side by side with Lippe, crusading against animal cruelty in the Animal Abuse Unit, is a paralegal in the Felony Review Unit and lead investigator of the Animal Abuse Unit at the Office of the State’s Attorney in Baltimore County, and co-founder of the Love Leads Project. She is also a law enforcement trainer for the Humane Society of the United States, in her spare time, she is studying for an M.S. in veterinary forensic medicine.

“At first, we were purchasing leashes from random places and bringing them to the police,” says Doherty.

“Because I was a climber, I reached out to Earth Treks climbing centers in Columbia, MD and Crystal City, VA, and they offered to donate used

Lippe also sought help from Caroline Griffin, co-founder of the Show Your Soft Side Anti-Cruelty Campaign.

Griffin, who calls herself a recovered attorney, has spent the last 10 years working full-time on animal protection issues.

Griffin says, “Show Your Soft Side works very closely with Adam and April (whom she affectionately calls the A-Team). They are one of the most effective animal abuse units in the country. We think the Love Leads Project has it all and it reaffirms that we can accomplish much more by working together.

“When the two of them started the Love Leads Project, we thought so highly of the initiative, we wanted to help them. So, when they get a request from a police department we cover the shipping costs. It costs one dollar a leash to ship.

“Love leads is a unique collaboration dedicated to saving dogs and preventing animal abuse and neglect,” says Griffin. “What began as a local service project has turned into a national effort providing first responders, free of charge, the tools necessary to humanely respond to dog encounters.”

The Love Leads Project has also helped the Humane Society of Grand Bahama, beginning in late 2018, when April agreed to conduct an animal cruelty training for their officers. “April got on a plane and delivered a suitcase brimming with Love Leads to the shelter, as staff and

Pet+ER provides the metal connectors so I can screw the ropes together. There are two connectors on each end, one for the loop and one for the lead volunteers were walking 160 dogs twice daily with nylon leashes.” The Love Leads Project recently shipped another 100 leashes following the devastation of Hurricane Dorian, to assist the shelter in reuniting lost dogs with their owners.

Griffin says, “And locally, April recently delivered Love Leads to Baltimore City Police Sergeant Hillary Wheeler, who is very proactive in responding to animal cruelty. In the aftermath of the

www.marylanddogmag.com I 11

feature “We checked the basement and the steps were broken,” Wheeler says. “We saw a small pittie at the bottom of the stairs who was very glad to see us. I carefully climbed down and passed the dog up to Hill, who took her so I could climb back out. Hill carried her out of the building. This was before the Love Leads Project and we didn’t have a way to secure her, so Hill created a temporary leash out of crime scene tape! I sent Hill to get food and water for the dog.”

Freddie Gray riots in the Western District, Sgt. Wheeler gathered and delivered dog and cat food for pets in need.”

Sergeant Wheeler, who appears in the 2019 Show Your Soft Side calendar, recalls her experiences while she served time as a patrol officer. She would often respond to calls for service, especially elderly residents of that district who were on a fixed income, who were regularly forced to decide whether to feed themselves or their pets. Wheeler reached out to Show Your Soft Side and carried their donations of pet food in her patrol car.

Wheeler also recalls when she and Officer Natasha Hill were called to the scene of a building collapse in the Western District in April of 2015.

“When we arrived, we found the front of a historic row home buckling. Officer Hill and I went upstairs and realized someone lived in the house. A child’s room, bed made, filled with toys, had been freshly painted blue.

WINTER 2019 I 12

Sergeant Hillary Wheeler and Officer Natalie Hill creating a make-shift leash from crime scene tape.

The story had a happy ending; the renter came back for the family pet. “He came up to me and said that they didn’t allow dogs at his mother’s place, where he had just dropped off what he could get out of the house,” says Wheeler. “The guy was just trying to make ends meet. He had saved enough money for paint for the kid’s room.

“I worked out with Animal Control that they would hold her until he got suitable housing. I took out my credit card and paid for her to get spade, microchipped and vaccinated with the agreement that he would stay up to date on her shots.”

Wheeler says, “April just delivered our first batch of Love Leads and ultimately, it would be great to expand the program.

“One of the benefits of keeping Love Leads in patrol cars is to remind officers that animals are victims, too. There is a link between child abuse, elder abuse, and domestic violence, so we keep our eyes out for signs in homes.,” says Wheeler.

“You have animal abuse in 50% of homes where you have domestic violence. If a family member is abused and has a pet, the perpetrator may abuse the pet, the one source of comfort the person has. It’s cyclical, so if you can reduce animal abuse, ultimately you can reduce violence overall.”

cruelty. He ended up getting 10 days in jail and probation where he couldn’t have any animals.

“My wife and I really wanted to adopt Biscuit but we had nowhere to keep him,” says Bull. We were living in an apartment while we were waiting for our new house to come through, so he lived at my parents’ house the first two months. Once we April Doherty donating Love Leads leashes closed on our house, he moved in to Humane Society in Grand Bahamas.

Every major police with us. It took work, but he’s a great department in Maryland dog now. He really gets along with Then I put her in my car. Animal my 3-year-old daughter, and oneControl had to hold her. After has gotten a leash. year-old son. an investigation, they didn’t find To date we’ve given anything to charge the owners with.

By the time Officer Bull got a call The owners relinquished the dog, about an aggressive dog chasing out more than 4500 and the Humane Society said I could people down the street, his precinct pick her up if I wanted her. I picked leashes in the U.S. had received Love Leads. “When I Nala up the next day. She’s laid back got there, it was obvious Nala, a pit and internationally. and calm for a puppy; she’s a good bull English setter mix puppy, was not dangerous. She was just playing. dog and gets along well with my kids. She was never aggressive.”

One guy was scared, and she Lifelong dog lover Officer Tim Bull chased him.

As for the future of the Love Leads of Dundalk Precinct 12, tells a heartProject, Lippe says, “I don’t foresee warming story where he and his wife stopping. So far it has worked out were able to adopt two of the dogs according to plan. Every major he found and rescued. police department in Maryland has “I received an animal cruelty gotten a leash. To date we’ve given complaint about Biscuit, a German out more than 4500 leashes in the shepherd/collie mix. I found him U.S. and internationally. Our goal is chained up on concrete patio with to put a leash in every police officer’s no water or food. He was so skinny car. Hopefully we’ll hit 5000 leashes, you could see his ribs. I called our ultimate goal. I just hope I’m Animal Control. I had to walk him making a difference.” out with the chain he was chained Lippe adds, “If you would like to up with. I really could have used a April Doherty’s dog Pickle at Earth help, please make a donation to Love Lead back then!

Treks Crystal City hamming it up with a Show Your Soft Side because they’re Rendezvous attendee. Pickle sadly passed “Later I made contact with the contributing so much and can find away in February, he was the ambassador of owners and learned they were out who needs leashes. And if you The Love Leads Project. Pickle always went beating him. The owners signed a see a stray animal, please stop and try on deliveries with the police officers. release form to release the dog to to help out.

Animal Control. The husband and “I lured her with snacks and hooked Donations to support the Love wife were prosecuted and ended her up with a Love Lead. While I Leads Project can be made at up going to court. The charges was waiting for Animal Control, www.showyoursoftside.org. were dropped for the wife and the I used the Love Lead to walk her husband plead guilty to animal around and use the bathroom. www.marylanddogmag.com I 13

February 23rd is National Dog Biscuit Day, to celebrate the day we’ve compiled some interesting history and facts on dog biscuits and a few yummy make at home recipes to treat your best friend.

The history: early dog treats and dog food consisted of old bread, food scraps, rotting leftovers, and hard biscuits of grain, such as hardtack. But it all began to change after Ohio electrician James Spratt took a trip to England to sell lightning rods in 1860. He saw dogs scavenging for food and being given hardtack and decided he would come up with something that could be a primary food source for them. He created "Meat Fibrine Dog Cakes" made of meat, vegetables, and grains. These turned out to not be cheap, however, and the target consumers were the country gentlemen of England who had dogs. But, by 1895, Spratt's biscuits were being sold in the United States.

In 1907, American inventor Carleton Ellis came up with the idea of making dog biscuits into the shape of a bone. A slaughterhouse had asked him to come up with something to do with "waste milk," and he came up with a milkbased biscuit. His dog didn't care for it much until he shaped it liked a bone. The following year, the F.H. Bennett Biscuit Company of New York began selling the biscuits, which along with the cow's milk had minerals and meat products as ingredients. Their name was Malatoid until 1915 when it was changed to Milk-Bone.

Nabisco Biscuit Company eventually acquired the Milk-Bone, and it was the preeminent dog biscuit until the end of the 1960s when other manufacturers started coming out with similar products. After World War II, there was a shift from using dog biscuits for meals to using them for desserts and treats. They were eventually also marketed as being useful for giving dogs cleaner teeth and fresher breath. On International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, or any day, dogs don't really care what benefits biscuits give them, they just know they love them!

PUMPKIN TREAT RECIPE

by JustFoodForDogs.com INGREDIENTS

8 oz pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) 2 oz molasses 4 oz water

2 oz safflower oil

1 1/2 lbs. whole wheat flour 0.25 oz cinnamon DIRECTIONS

Mix all ingredients together. Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into desired shape. Bake for 15 min at 350°F. For softer treats, remove from oven after 15 min. For crunchier treats, lower temperature to 200 and bake for 30-45 min.

Remove from oven and let cool. Treats will become crispier as they cool.

WINTER 2019 I 14

Heart Shaped Cranberry Cookies for Dogs by www.everydaydogmom.com

A perfect treat for Valentine’s Day, and something to do with your pup on a snowy winter day.

INGREDIENTS 2 Eggs

Banana Almond Puppy Treats

1.5 Cups Almond Flour 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil 3-4 Tablespoons Coconut Flour

by Pretty Fluffy

1/2 Cup Dried Cranberries

A soft, yummy, and super healthy puppy treats recipe that we hope your puppy will love.

DIRECTIONS

INGREDIENTS

1 Organic Pasture Raised Egg

Preheat oven to 325 degrees Beat the eggs and set aside

3/4 Cup Unsalted Almond Butter

Combine almond flour, coconut oil, and dried cranberries in a bowl.

1 Tsp Ground Cinnamon

Add in the eggs and knead the ingredients with your hands. Dough will be wet and sticky.

DIRECTIONS

Add in the coconut flour one tablespoon at a time to achieve a consistency that is easy to roll out and not overly sticky. This should take approximately 3-4 TBSP.

1/3 of an Organic Banana

Pre-heat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Use a fork to mash the banana in a medium/ large size bowl. Once mashed, add in the rest of the ingredients and mix together with a fork until blended. The batter consistency should be very thick and gooey – this will not resemble your normal treat dough.

Spoon out dime sized dollops onto your parchment paper and place in the oven for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, turn the pan and bake for another 5 minutes.

Remove from the oven and let cool. These should last for approximately 5-7 days.

Photo by SARAH DICKERSON

Roll out the dough and cut out the treats using heart shaped cookie cutters.

Place the treats on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 15-18 minutes or until crisp. ** The above recipes are for treats only and should not replace your dog’s regular meal plans. Always check with your vet about any major changes to your dog’s diet. **

good behavior

BY: ELISABETH CATALANO, MA, GDIP, CPDT-KA, CDBC

The crate is probably one of the most important training tools that you will have for your dog. It is a necessity because it is the only portable means of confining your dog. Think of it like an RV is for humans, a home away from home.

Trained correctly, the crate can be a safe and even happy place from what can be a confusing world for a dog.

When things get too chaotic (think Christmas dinner for the entire family), your dog has a quiet place to rest.

Crates make it easy to travel. You can set up the crate in a hotel room and instantly your dog feels at home.

This is especially important for unplanned travel, like evacuations. Natural disasters never seem like they will happen to you, but they are real and happen all the time.

Your dog will be less stressed and easier to handle if he is used to a crate and can relax wherever you go. The

WINTER 2019 I 16

crate should be big enough for the dog to lie down in and stretch out, stand up without bumping his head and allow him to turn around easily.

Long term confinement for Veterinary care is infinitely less stressful if the dog has previously been conditioned to using a crate. Surgeries, injuries and sometimes illnesses require that the dog be confined at the hospital or home. If crating is not something the dog is used to, then they will be subjected to additional anxiety. My dog, Nevar’s first surgery had me a nervous wreck but when I brought him to the Vet, he went happily into the crate and was not stressed the slightest. That made the rest of his stay much easier for him. Additionally, crating sometimes becomes logistically necessary for behavioral issues such as aggression to visitors.

Mature dogs can be conditioned to using a crate, but it is easiest to condition a young puppy. Good breeders help to prepare the puppy for his life with you by doing the majority of the task. They give the puppy short periods of alone time in the crate. With dogs that have no previous history, or even a bad history, with the cate, you must proceed slowly.

Before training, the dog or pup should be tired from exercising and playing and should have had an opportunity to relieve himself. The dog should be placed into the crate with a Kong stuffed with yummies to lick, like peanut butter or yogurt. A tired hungry puppy or dog will almost always settle down and work on the Kong.

Be sure to stay close at first and then begin to walk around the room attending to chores. If the pup is fine with that, then it is ok to very briefly leave the room for a few seconds and then return. The pup will then likely fall asleep. It is ok to let her sleep for a while, but after a bit, wake her up to go outside for a potty. If she wakes up, discovers you are gone and starts to bark, you will be faced with the dilemma of letting a barking dog out of the crate which is a guaranteed way to ensure that she barks to be let out again in the future.

Dogs and puppies should be crated whenever you can’t supervise them. The crate is simply a means to keep them safe and out of trouble. They should always have an opportunity to relieve themselves before being put into a crate and should go in with a Kong or food puzzle to help occupy their brains. This positive association with the crate will pay off in the long run.

Going in the crate, should be something that is a nonevent. It is not punishment, it is school. It should happen frequently and be a short duration. Sometimes the puppy will be alone and sometimes crated at your feet. Crating at night is a good opportunity for getting the pup used to being crated while you are around.

They should be crated nearby so that they can see you and have the comfort of your presence. They are, after all, social creatures and now that they are in our human family, they will need to be near you.

Crates help to shape good habits (i.e., learning to be alone while not chewing up the house)!

But too much crating can have the opposite effect. A puppy that spends most of his day in the crate will not have the necessary opportunities to learn about the world. He will not be able to expend all that youthful energy and will come out of the crate even more rambunctious than when he went in. This can create a dangerous, vicious cycle.

Puppies and dogs that have not had enough mental stimulation and physical exercise run the risk of developing behavioral problems ranging from destruction to aggression.

No dog or puppy should be crated for more than 4-6 hours at a time, depending on their age (the younger the dog, the shorter the crating period). Crate time should always be offset with an ample time to potty, drink, stretch their legs, learn new things and burn off steam by running and playing. Any more than 14-hours total crate time (including nighttime crating), is too much.

It is important to keep your dog used to a crate for the variety of reasons listed above. However, your dog should be able to eventually be trusted to be home alone uncrated. It is time to give this a try when you find that you no longer need to worry about him getting into trouble when you are home. Once you find that you can trust him without your eyes on him every second, you can consider some unsupervised freedom.

By Elisabeth Catalano, MA, GDIP, CPDT-KA, CDBC is a professional dog trainer and behavior counselor with more than 20 years of experience in dealing with canine behavior problems. She is the Director of Behavior and Training of The Coventry School Inc. for Dogs and Their People. Elisabeth is skilled in behavior modification techniques and is committed to scientifically based animal training and the use of positive reinforcement methods. She is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and The Animal Behavior Society.

www.marylanddogmag.com I 17

we know you want the very best for your dog.

y r t n e v o CSchool The

we do too!

INC.

h for Dogs & t

eir People

Come see our newly expanded and renovated faCility.

DAY CARE: Dogs are carefully evaluated and placed in groups based on temperament, play style, age and activity.

In-person supervision of all activities. Good manners encouraged and reinforced!

Our senior Day Care includes “Lounge Hound” area for older dogs.

Add training to your dog’s day with: Puppy Prep-School, Teen Prep-School or Day Training.

INTRODUCING: • The Coventry Academy of Canine Enrichment (ACE): Trainer-guided, structured activities during Day Care.

Limited spots, pre-registration required.

• Super Puppy Club!: Uniquely designed to meet the needs of the young puppy looking for more than just day camp.

Includes: introduction to novelty, confidence building and age-appropriate behaviors.

TRAINING: •Classes: Customized programs to meet your dog’s needs: Pet training: Puppy Kindergarten, Beginner, Jumpstart, Wonderdog, Dogs Unleashed Sports Training: Nose Work, Rally Specialty: Kranky K9’s, Upward Dog, CGC Training Fun Training: Tricks for Kicks Level I and II, Dogs Best Friend (for kids 7-10) • Private Training and Behavior Consults: Private sessions focused on specific behavior problems. In-depth consults for fear, anxiety, aggression, or compulsive disorders.

BOARDING: 24 hr. supervision, overnight staff, exclusive to current day camp attendees.

they’re not just a dog, they are family.

WINTER 2019 I 18

thecoventryschool.com

410-381-1800 email: coventryschool@verizon.net 7165 Oakland Mills Road, Columbia, MD 21046

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www.animalreikialliance.com www.marylanddogmag.com I 19

WINTER 2019 I 20

Coping tips for when you lose your best friend

BY VERONICA VAN HOF

Our pets are our family, when we lose a pet it can affect us just as much or even more than the loss of a friend or family member. Veronica Van Hof, director of The Baltimore Humane Society Memorial Park shares some helpful suggestions to help with the loss of a beloved pet.

“I think what people need to know most of all is that the grief that accompanies death or loss are paradoxically deeply individual but also very much a common experience. We learn this during our monthly pet-loss group meetings.

Although our individual responses may vary (some people for instance have to clear the entire house of all of the pet’s belongings down to their water bowl while some people build a memorial shelf with collars, favorite toys and more that they keep forever) we all experience the same spectrum of stages of grief.” said Veronica Van Hof. Grief is not a linear process.

Although we all experience at some point during death or loss the clinical five stages of grief in more or less this order: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance, it is not a neat and orderly process. Grief is messy and it is normal to move forward and back many times.

Grief has no timeline. There is no magic number of days, weeks or months that it is correct to grieve and then move on. Do not put a time limit on your grief but do remember that it’s OK to seek help if you feel “stuck” in one stage of the grief process or if your loss is beginning to greatly affect the way you function daily.

Don’t feel bad for having a ‘good’ day. You will have good days.

Embrace them. Grief is physically and emotionally exhausting and painful. It’s OK to have an OK day because tomorrow you might start inexplicably crying in line at the grocery store. Both good and bad days will happen. Remember, this process is not a defined line with a beginning and end.

Let your friends know that they aren’t expected to “fix” you. There are no just-perfect sentiments anyone can say that will make you immediately bounce back into normalcy. Your friends might try and might fail spectacularly at saying the “right thing”. Let them know what you need is someone to just listen, or a day out of the house, or an hour’s worth of distraction. They don’t need to fix you. They just need to be there. Let them know that with specific words if you’re able.

Talk to your lost pet. Out loud.

Write a letter. Tell them everything you miss about them. Tell them all the decisions you are struggling with.

Talk or write about your favorite memories together. This can be incredibly therapeutic.

Join a pet-loss support group either in-person or online. Even if you attend only once. It helps to be in a safe place where your loss doesn’t have to be explained.

Make a memorial to your pet.

Create a video slideshow with music using an online website.

Or put together a photo album or scrapbook. Make a memory diorama with a cigar box. Put together a memorial shelf or window sill.

Donate to a local shelter or rescue in their name.

Adopting again is not “replacing” your pet. Your grief is directly proportional to the love you had for your pet -- your friend, family member and loyal companion. A friend’s wise father once told her after the death of her beloved dog, “You are not replacing her. You are finding somewhere for all the love you have in your heart to go.”

Remember this. And remember our amazing friends would never want their space in your home to be empty forever. When you are ready, give that safe space to another homeless pet. Yes, losing them hurts.

But we know it’s worth it.

The Baltimore Humane Society Memorial Park is a historic cemetery dedicated entirely to pets and is located on a certified wildlife habitat. Director of the Memorial Park, Veronica Van Hof has been at BHS almost two years. Veronica is a certified pet-loss counselor and an InSight-certified funeral celebrant.

The monthly loss group is on the first Tuesday of each month at 7 pm, 1601 Nicodemus Road in Reisterstown. RSVPS to my email or phone are great.

Baltimore Humane Society was founded in 1927 by Elsie Seeger Barton. They are a no-kill, nonprofit animal shelter that does not receive any operational funding from the county, state, or other governments; and we are not affiliated with any national humane societies or animal welfare organizations.

www.marylanddogmag.com I 21

Dental care for dogs is important, but it’s an aspect of care that is frequently overlooked by dog owners. One of the few outward signs of dental problems lurking just below the surface is bad breath.

According to the American Veterinary Dental College, periodontal disease is the most common clinical dental condition occurring in adult dogs. However, it is preventable with consistent home dental care and regular vet visits.

Knowing there’s a problem with your pet’s mouth starts by understanding what a healthy dog’s mouth should look like. Teeth should be intact (not jagged or broken) and free of plaque and tartar buildup. Tongues should be moist without any lumps or cuts and gums should be salmon pink, though some dogs naturally have black or black and pink gums.

Making sure you are aware of what your pet’s mouth typically looks like and talking to your vet if you spot any issues can go a long way toward protecting your furry friend. Also consider this advice from veterinarian and host of Animal Planet’s “Evan Goes Wild” Dr. Evan Antin to help keep your dog’s teeth healthy and his or her breath fresh: �

ee your vet regularly. When visiting your veterinarian for a regular check-up, make sure he or she checks your S dog’s teeth. Your vet can evaluate your dog’s mouth, teeth and gums and identify any trouble spots.

�

rushing is best. Ideally, that means brushing your dog’s teeth daily, but that’s not realistic for all dog owners.

B If you're brushing at home, start slow and make sure it’s a positive experience. First, introduce dog-specific toothpaste with your finger and progress to a toothbrush once your pet becomes comfortable. Your vet can also brush your dog’s teeth if you’re having trouble.

�

reat and play with purpose. Functional chews and toys can be both enjoyable for your dog and provide a T healthy benefit as easy options to help with dental upkeep.

“Practicing good dental hygiene is just as important for pets as it is for humans,” Antin said, “I recommend DentaLife ActivFresh chews, which are designed with nine ridges and have an active-ingredient blend of honey and natural spirulina that has been scientifically tested to fight bad breath at the source.”

�

se crunchy kibbles. Dry, crunchy foods can be helpful. As your dog chews, particles from the dry food scrape U against his or her teeth, acting like a toothbrush to help reduce tartar buildup.

�

atch for warning signs. Persistent bad breath, red gums and changes in behavior or eating habits can all be W signs of dental problems. If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment to see your veterinarian.

To learn more about protecting your dog’s dental health, visit purina.com/dentalife and consult with your veterinarian.

WINTER 2019 I 22

Best of the Fest [Reader’s Picks]

Overall Winner Best Smile  Bear

Best Mutt  Blanco

Photographer’s Choice  Lily

BALTIMORE HUMANE SOCIETY a no-kill shelter protecting, saving & caring for animals since 1927

www.marylanddogmag.com I 23

Special thank you to our photographer Randy Gresham @ Bmore Photography, Randy@bmorephotography.comMagazine

 Bugsy & Stella

shopping guide

 Contour Double Door Dog Crate by Midwest Containers Exclusive lap lock technology provides reinforcement to perimeter of the door. The reinforced doors have multiple lock points and a safe and secure slide bolt latch. The doors feature a low threshold and large openings allowing your pet to easily enter and exit the crate. Creates a den like space for your pet and allows proper ventilation and visibility. https://www.mypetstoreandmore.com/products/dog/crates/__ trashed-289/

PAWZ DOG BOOTS Perfect for wet and muddy winter paws. Comes with 12 boots per package, when one wears out, you simply toss it for a new boot.

Made from a rubber tree, 100% biodegradable. Most natural feeling boot with no padding, allows your dog to feel the ground, providing a sense of security. Traction Control, to prevent slipping on hard surface floors and durable, yet fashionable. https://www.mypetstoreandmore.com/products/dog/pawz-dogboots-green-x-large-12-count/

USA Mazee Slow-Feeder

Sponsored by: www.mypetstoreandmore.com 410-465-0594 To purchase visit My Pet Store and More at 9469 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD For additional information, call 410-465-0594. To order online visit www.mypetstoreandmore.com.

WINTER 2019 I 24

This treat or food dispenser will make eating more entertaining.

If you have a gulper, this is also a great way to have them slow down and work to get their food. https://www.mypetstoreandmore. com/products/dog/dog-feedingaccessories/usa-mazee-slowfeeder/

 EARTHBATH TOOTH/GUM WIPES

by Earthwhile Endeavors Inc. Easy and convenient solution to keeping your pet’s mouth clean from plaque tartar and odor-causing bacteria. Free of parabens and alcohol. https://www.mypetstoreandmore.com/products/dog/dog-health-care/ earthbath-tooth-gum-wipes/

KURGO DOG IMPACT SEATBELT CAR HARNESS  The next generation in Kurgo crash-tested car harnesses. Based on 8 years of engineering dog car harnesses, the Impact Harness is a totally new harness design using a single piece of high tensile tubular webbing with reinforced bar tacking. Tested using the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard for child restraint systems. Tested with simulated crash test dogs of all sizes.

Lightweight and integrates directly with your car seat belt system.

No additional seat belts, straps or attachments necessary. Machine washable and line dry. https://www.mypetstoreandmore.com/?post_ type=product&s=KURGO%20DOG%20IMPACT%20SEATBELT%20 CAR%20HARNESS

PRO SENSE PLUS NOSE & PAW SOLUTIONS SALVE

by Eight-In-One Dog/Cat  Great for the cold dry winter months. Helps to relieve dry paws and nose when used as directed. Suitable for daily use and formulated with beeswax and coconut oil. Non-stinging formula. https://www.mypetstoreandmore. com/products/dog/doggrooming/pro-sense-plus-nosepaw-solutions-salve/

www.marylanddogmag.com I 25

Winter Boredom Busters

It’s cold, snowing and icy outside, not exactly the best weather to exercise your dog outside and get the “crazies” out. Afterall they say a tired dog is a good dog. Wintertime can be a challenging time of year for your dog to get the appropriate amount of exercise to be happy, healthy, and stay out of trouble.

When dogs are bored, they can get into trouble. Keeping them mentally stimulated and busy can not only build your bond and relationship with your dog but also keep them happy and fulfilled.

We’ve compiled a few tips to help you and your pooch get through the winter months while spending time together and building on your bond.

Interactive Dog Toys “Thinking” toys have come a long way the last few years. Recognizing the need for mental stimulation manufacturers have created many options to challenge dogs.

Interactive toys can keep your dog occupied much longer than typical toys and give a confidence boost and sense of accomplishment.

WINTER 2019 I 26

Give a job Most dogs come from a working history of some sort. Many purebreds have a strong working history. All dogs were built originally to work and hunt for their own food. Sure, domestication has changed the need to work for food, but many dogs are thrilled to get back to their roots and work.

Research your dogs breed or if a mixed breed, and you know which breeds, research what mixes your dog has in genes. A few fun easy jobs all breeds will like are; teach them to pick up toys, carry sticks and open doors.

Schedule a Play Date If you can’t get out on your normal walk or dog park plan a playdate with a friend’s dog or neighbor.

Someone you can trust and know is an equally well-behaved dog.

Doggy Day Care Maryland is fortunate to have many options for dog day care. This is a great option to keep your pup busy while you are at work a few days a week. Look for a day care that

places based on temperament, age, activity, play style, and requires an evaluation before allowed to enroll.

Obedience Training/Specialty Training Obedience classes aren’t just for puppies. There are many specialty obedience classes to brush up on basic skills or take it to the next level. Many obedience centers offer classes in nose work, sports training and many other options. Fun obedience games can also be done at home including nose games, hide & seek, guess which hand, and many more. If you have the space, you can even build your own DIY agility course with weave poles and a tunnel.

Hopefully these tips will help you and your dog get through the winter months boredom free.

Springtime and warmer weather will be here before we know it.

MD Dog

The PAWS and THINK! Book series by local author, Miranda Mittleman is the recipient of the prestigious Mom's Choice Award! Miranda grew up in Baltimore and went to Towson University where she earned her bachelor's degree in marketing. She is an avid runner, has a black belt in karate, and was even a contestant on Wheel of Fortune! Miranda’s true passion has always been poetry. She can recite most poems from her childhood by heart and was inspired to write the PAWS and THINK! ® series while living in the city with her supportive husband, Michael, and their playful mutt, Weaver.

Each book in the series teaches a valuable life lesson through the eyes of Weaver. Readers see the world through Weaver's bright eyes, with each new day a valuable lesson arises. Weaver was rescued through a great organization called We Rescue Love, Inc as a puppy by Miranda and her husband.

Life is funny and can change in a blink, so always remember to PAWS and THINK! Currently the series includes titles: We Are All Different, I Am Important, and Be Thankful for What You Have.

Books can be purchased at https://www. pawsandthinkbooks.com or Amazon.

The Petlandia customized book series is a perfect gift for a family member or a friend for a holiday, birthday or to celebrate a new pet in the family. When MD Dog received a personalized copy of Maryland Dog’s Adventures in Petlandia we couldn’t get over the detail in the personalization within the adorable story.

Two book options are available; Adventures in Petlandia and Petlandia Road trip with two pets in the story. Both books are hand-illustrated.

Adventures In Petlandia story is a heartwarming tale of friendship, fame, loneliness and love. See your pet jetting off to a pawsome world of four-legged fun!

The Petlandia Road trip book is hilariously heartwarming, this pawsome adventure sees any TWO dogs embarking on a fun-filled road trip across Petlandia, from Mew York to Hollywoof via San Franbiscuits and beyond. Fur is ruffled but friendship conquers all!

Create your pet from the list of over 100 breeds and pattern options to fetch your own personal storybook. www.petlandia.com www.marylanddogmag.com I 27

VISIT US @ MARYLANDDOGMAG.COM Find web exclusive articles online at www.marylanddogmag.com.

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• Local events • Area shelter and rescue news • Special offers from local pet related businesses • Exclusive contest information and promotions Sign up at www.marylandogmag.com.

Get Social - Join us on Facebook and Instagram

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Click on our online calendar to see local events and happenings for you and your pet. YOU CAN EVEN ADD YOUR OWN EVENT!

WINTER 2019 I 28

HempWorx is proud to offer CBD products not just for humans, but for your furry friends as well.

Whether it’s our beef flavored dog treats with 2.5mg of CBD each or our 250mg bacon flavored CBD oil, you can feel good about supporting your pets’ overall wellbeing with no soy, corn, or wax to please even sensitive tummies.

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Visit: www.HempWorx.com/SSWellness for free samples, orders, becoming an affiliate, and additional information. • 410-812-9223 www.marylanddogmag.com I 29

Advertising Index BACK COVER

PAGE 18

Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists www.cvssvets.com 410-828-0911 410-224-0121

The Coventry School for Dogs thecoventryschool.com 410-381-1800

INSIDE FRONT COVER

Chesapeake Veterinary Referral Center www.cvrc.com 410-828-0911 410-224-0121

PAGE 19

Baltimore Humane Society Memorial Park www.bmorehumane.org 410-833-8848 ext. 219 Animal Reiki Alliance (ARA) www.animalreikialliance.com PAGE 22

PAGE 5

Skylos www.skylossportsmedicine.com 410-465-2428 VetUrgency www.veturgency.com 301-288-VETS (8387) Safe, Friendly, Caring Atmosphere

Our grooming packages are breed-specific and include: Bath & Conditioning • Nail Trimming Glands Expressed • Ear Cleaning • Styling

Call 410-628-7055

WE Hand Dry and Fluff Each Dog

Thankful Paws www.thankfulpaws.org PAGE 25

My Pet Store and More www.mypetstoreandmore.com 410-465-0594

PAGE 9

Pet E.R. www.pet-er.net 410-252-8387 410-441-3304

MD Dog Snapshot

to schedule an appointment

Tuesday-Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm Ask about our anesthesia FREE teeth cleaning.

114 W. PADONIA ROAD TIMONIUM, MD 21093

www.pamperedpawsalon.net

Do you have a photogenic fourlegged friend? Do you want your dog to be featured as the MD Dog Snapshot of the issue? Make sure to add #MDdogmag to your social media posts on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for a chance to be selected.

We look forward to seeing your submissions.

Thank you to our reader @bbjindo for posting this picture of Bibi chilling on the sofa.

#MDdogmag WINTER 2019 I 30

WORLD OF PETS EXPO & Educational Experience 19th Annual

Jan 24-26

FR PARK EE ING

State Marylandunds Fairgro , MD Timonium

THE Event for the Pet Lover A Shoppers Paradise for Pet 8 Anntuha Products & Services l 0 2 0 2 Feb FREE Seminars by National Experts DockDogs® Competition 21-23 Hampton R The Birdwhisperer, Parade of Breeds Convention oads C Johnny Peers Muttville Comix Hampton, Venter A Shelters and Rescues with Adoptable Pets FUN Contests and Door Prizes

Cat Show

Well socialized pets welcome.

Please see our web site for more information.

Indoors & Heated

410-374-5964 • 800-882-9894 www.worldofpets.org • info@worldofpets.org CLIP FOR $1.00 OFF - Purchase of 1 admission ticket. Limit 1 coupon per person. www.marylanddogmag.com I 31

WINTER 2019 I 32