Modern Dog Winter 2019

How to Harness the Power of Play to Treat Canine Depression & Anxiety

The lifestyle magazine for modern dogs and their companions

Good Dog!

W IN T ER 2019/20

Expert Behavioural Advice Inside

DO G S R LO VE T GIF !

E GUID

p34

Could CBD Help Your Dog?

Fear Free How to help your dog live a happy, full & healthy life moderndogmagazine.com DISPLAY UNTIL MAR ‘20

$6.95

Giveaways Galore!

p40

Conversations With Dogs

8 Natural Joint Supplements Shelter Wish List

p32

The BEST Dog Stuff!

Read Your Breed: The Australian Cattle Dog, Husky & Malamute plus more!

WINTER 2019/20

VOL 18

NO 4

36 FEATURES 28

Could Play Be the Medicine Your Dog Needs?

Stressed dog? Depressed dog? Play may be the answer.

BY STANLEY COREN

36

When Your Dog Doesn’t Want to Share the Couch What to do if your dog growls when you try to move him.

80

BY NICOLE WILDE

40

Conversations With Dogs A cognitive scientist who studies dogs reflects on the unique role our pups play in our lives. BY ALEXANDRA

88

HOROWITZ; ILLUSTRATION BY MICHELLE SIMPSON

44

48

72

Loving Big and Letting Go Rachel Brathen on how to heal after the loss of a beloved dog. BY ROSE FROSEK State of the Art and State of the Heart The fear free principles of “America's vet” Dr. Marty Becker. BY JENNIFER NOSEK Jobs with Dogs Four great career choices for dog lovers.

The Greatest Dog Show on Earth “It can change your life.” The Westminster Kennel Club is not just must-watch TV for dog people, it’s the pinnacle of achievement for its dedicated participants

BY YAUNNA SOMMERSBY

94

Dogs That Play Too Rough Five ways to calm your rough-housing pooch.

BY TEOTI ANDERSON

BODY & SOUL 56

Listen to Your (Dog’s) Gut; Deep Breath; Special Delivery!

BY JANE MUNDY

80

How to Throw a Party for Your Pup It’s ‘pawty’ time with these planning tips, plus a smash cake recipe just for dogs! BY SERENA NELSON FABER

58

Healthy Pup Solutions for everything from difficult-to-clip nails to smelly ears and sore joints.

82

A Heart-Dog is Forever A memorial diamond provides a sparkling tribute to a beloved dog. BY JENNIFER NOSEK

60

86

The Soul Communicator A conversation with a pet psychic.

8 Natural Joint Supplements for Dogs Dog lovers are ditching anti-inflammatory drugs and treating their dogs’ joint pain with powerhouse natural supplements—and seeing amazing results BY TRACEY TONG

66

Veterinary Detective What’s wrong with this dog?

BY ROSE FROSEK; ILLUSTRATION BY MICHELLE SIMPSON

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BY DR. SARAH MYERS

P H OTO G R A P H E D BY L AU R E N D O B I S H P H OTO G R AO H Y.COM

The Benefits of CBD for Your Dog From pain relief to anxiety management, CBD proponents say it can do it all—even fight cancer. Is it right for your dog?

P H OTO R I G H T C A K E BY L A L LY P U P S (FAC E B O O K .COM/L A L LY P U P S);

34

14

102

THE GOODS

52

Gift Guide Inspired gift ideas for all the dogs and dog lovers on your list.

DOG LIFE 12

Dog Life Hacks Looking for genius life-hacks, like tips for bathing a reluctant dog and more? Modern Dog readers share their best dog advice.

24

We’re giving it away!

We’ve got three months of awesome giveaways, including dog toys, beds, supplements, a camera, and more, with winners every week! Turn to page 24 to see what’s up for grabs.

38

Barkin’ For a Cure Philanthropic dogs are helping raise money for canine and human cancer research. BY ALICE SEWELL

46

Shelter Wish List Donate items found around your home to help dogs in need!

REGULAR FEATURES

92

6 Editor’s Letter 8 Contributors 10 Stuff We Love 14 The Scoop 22 Smile! Photo Contest 109 Marketplace

How to Read a Dog Food Label Four things you should pay attention to when reading the label of your dog’s store-bought food. BY TRACEY TONG

102 Celebrating Second Chances From death row dog to Animal Planet celeb. Our Star Dog, 14-year-old Dachshund Sherman is living his best life.

96

The Dog Gear Look Book Your at-a-glance guide to the best stuff for your dog.

READ YOUR BREED 26

The Siberian Husky vs. The Alaskan Malamute Can you tell the difference between these commonly confused breeds? We give you the low down of their characteristics, personalities, and more!

98

The Australian Cattle Dog World-class herder from the land down under.

BY KELLY CALDWELL

22

ON THE COVER Gidget, an eight-week-old Husky pup photographed by the amazing Shaina Fishman, a New York-based commercial photographer who specializes in capturing the personalities of animals.

Turn to page 26 to read all about the Husky's personality and exercise needs!

Inset illustration by Michelle Simpson.

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BY ROSE FROSEK; PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARA RIDDLE

106 Connie’s Book Club Curl up with a good dog and a good book. Editor-inChief Connie Wilson’s winter round-up of must-reads dog books.

112 A Warrior for Animals Model behaviour: Former America’s Next Top Model Katie Cleary is on a mission, and she could use your help.

In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 18, Issue 4. Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 061114003. Periodicals postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices.

POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402.

PHOTO RIGHT SARA RIDDLE

Dog-tastic Décor Home goods to delight both you and your pup.

PHOTO LEFT COURTESY OF AIRBNB

32

EDITOR'S LETTER

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

CO N N I E W I L S O N W I T H P E N N Y, P H OTO K H A R E N H I L L

OUR READERS WRITE

“A little weekend reading. #isyourdogincharge?”

—@rosemary.retriever he winter season is upon us and I couldn’t be more excited.

Here in the Pacific Northwest, we love it when the rain turns to snow. It might be cold, but the sparkly magic of winter dog walks makes up for it.

Whether your winter weather is Rockwellian or you’re still in shorts, we’re here to help you make the very most of the magical winter and holiday season. We threw ourselves into the making of this issue, filling it with inspiring stories, expert how-to’s, and must-haves to make a life with dogs easier, more fun, and more beautiful.

We take a look at how something as simple as play can be harnessed to help dogs with stress and depression (p 28), delve into which natural joint supplements can help dogs with osteoarthritis (p 60), explore the benefits of CBD (including pain relief and seizure management), and share clear, expert-authored how-to’s for dealing with roughhousing and growling dogs. And that’s not all. The incredible Alexandra Horowitz, a cognitive scientist who studies dogs, reflects on the unique role our pups play in our lives (p 40), Rachel Brathen shares advice on how to heal after the loss of a heart dog, and “America’s vet” Dr. Marty Becker discusses how to use his Fear Free principles to help your dog live a happy, healthy, and full life. We also take a look at four career choices for dog lovers, breaking down what’s involved and salary expectations, and even speak with a pet psychic (p 86). And then there’s our run down of inspired gifts for all the dogs and dog lovers on your list, as well as our Dog Gear Look Book and Dog-tastic Décor features, in which we’ve curated the best dog finds out there, from collars and coats to beds to wall art. In short, it’s all in here! We hope you enjoy it as much we loved putting it together for you.

“Ocho is all set up for an afternoon of reading Modern Dog!!”—Kim Fowler

“I saw your magazine in my vets office and thought ‘so very informative!’”—Sandra Duncan

Thank you so much for being a part of our amazing community of dog lovers! Wishing you and your dogs a wonderful winter season.

With Love,

Connie Wilson, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

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“DIC DIC picking his own gifts”—Yay Ay

C O NTRIBUTOR S WINTER 2019/20

“It’s all about capturing unconditional love and authentic, real moments,” says lifestyle pet and people photographer Sara Riddle. Sara has specialized in photographing pets with their people for over a decade.

Her relaxed, modern style has made her one of the premier photographers in the industry.

Her photography sessions are easy going and fun for everyone, especially the pets! Sara is based in Northern Virginia but is available for travel. Find Sara at sarariddle.com, and turn to page 102 for her adorable photos of our Star Dog photo contest winner, senior rescue pup Sherman!

•

VOL 18

NO 4

Publisher

Modern Dog Inc. Editor-in-Chief

Connie Wilson Editor & Creative Director

Jennifer Nosek Design & Production

Hayley Schmidt Affiliate Development & Digital Marketing Manager

Nicole Ephgrave Social Media & Marketing Strategist and Copywriter

Alice Sewell Sales & Marketing

Linda Helme, Milena Braga Copywriter & Subscription Coordinator

Kyrsten Downton Comptroller

Cecilia de Roca Chan, CPA, CGA Accounting Services & Subscription Services

Vicki Szivos Sales & Marketing Assistant

Georgia Riddle-Olsen Audience Development Intern

Yaunna Sommersby

The very talented Michelle Simpson is a professional illustrator and designer who has also worked as a concept artist on kids’ cartoons.

Nature and animals, including her two very dog-like Tabby cats, Freddie and Sushi, often inspire her work. Turn to page 40 for Michelle’s terrific illustrations for “On Life With Dogs” and see if you recognize yourself in the overheard conversations people have with their dogs.

GET YOURSELF A SUBSCRIPTION! Give us a call at 1-800-417-6289 or subscribe online at moderndogmagazine.com/subscribe Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 In Canada: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 18, Issue 4.

Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4 POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4 In USA: MODERN DOG (ISSN 1703-812X) Volume 18, Issue 4. Published quarterly by Modern Dog Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 06111-4003.

Periodicals postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Dog, PO Box 310402, Newington, CT 06131-0402.

PHONE

(604) 734-3131 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3131 (604) 734-3031 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3031

FAX

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Copyright 2019/20 by Modern Dog Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means, electronic or mechanical, including the Internet or photocopying without the written permission of the Publisher. Modern Dog and its logotype are the trademarks of Modern Dog Inc. Modern Dog is published four times a year. One-year subscription prices: Canada $16CAD, U.S.A. $16USD, foreign $45USD. Subscription orders and customer service inquiries should be sent to Modern Dog Subscription Services, Suite 202–343 Railway St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6A 1A4

PRINTED IN CANADA

www.moderndogmagazine.com Publications Mail Agreement Number 40743013 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l'appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

ALEXANDRA HOROWITZ PHOTO VEGAR ABELSNES

Alexandra Horowitz is the author of the New York Times bestsellers Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know and Being a Dog: Following the Dog into a World of Smell. Her new book, Our Dogs, Ourselves, was published in September. She is a Senior Research Fellow and professor at Barnard College, where her Dog Cognition Lab performs research on a wide range of topics, including dog olfaction, emotions, and play behaviour. Turn to page 40 for her essay on why she studies dogs—and why she eavesdrops on fellow dog people conversing with their pups.

The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, images, photographs or other materials. By accepting and publishing advertising the publisher in no way recommends, guarantees or endorses the quality of services or products within those advertisements.

Stuff We Love

Modern Dog staffers’ picks of the litter!

1 Janet Alsup’s French Bulldog art print is one of my new favourite pieces. I love the Frenchie's expression and the perfectly pink background. Janet's prints are available in a glorious array of breeds making it hard to choose, but at a crazy-affordable $22, why choose just one?

Original paintings and custom portraits are also available.—Jennifer (From $22, etsy.com/shop/ JanetAlsupPaintings) 2 Bring a reminder of your dog with you everywhere with this lovely, unique nose print necklace from Robin’s Loving Touch. These sweet necklaces feature a one-of-a-kind pedant made from your dog’s nose print and are available in gold, sterling silver, or solid chrome. So pretty!

—Milena (from $277, robinslovingtouch.com) 3 Making sure my new puppy gets all the nutrients she needs is super important and with Vetericyn’s new All-In Dog Supplement, it’s easy. It’s specially formulated to meet your dog’s life stage (with puppy, adult, and senior formulas) and helps promote digestive, cellular, bone, mental, and immune health. Perfect for a happy and healthy dog, no matter what their age.

—Hayley ($40, vetericyn.com) 4 I let my dog sleep on the bed and couch, but I’m not a fan of all the fur left on my furniture. With PawPad, however, that’s a problem of the past! Just place the PawPad sheet over your duvet, couch, or anywhere else and keep the hair, dirt, and odour at bay. It’s also machine washable and dryer safe and comes in three neutral colours—perfect!—Linda (from $62, pawpad.company) 5 My dog has a sensitive gastrointestinal system but his GI problems have completely subsided since taking MitoMax for Dogs and Cats from Imagilin. I simply sprinkle one capsule of these plant based probiotics on his food, stir in and that’s it! He enjoys his meals without noticing the supplements and I’m at ease that his GI issues are being treated.—Kyrsten (from $23 for 40 capsules, petsmaxcity.com) 6 I just love playing fetch, and with the Epec Disc Launcher, I can run even further to fetch! Epec Disc’s specially designed dog disc easily fits into the launcher and can then be thrown 30 to 60 yards for me to chase after until my heart’s content!—Charlie the dog ($29, epecdisc.com) 7 Some of the Modern Dog pack recently switched to a raw diet and are seeing amazing results!

Longevity’s line of raw dog food, especially the Savory Chicken Raw Dog Food, is a favourite. It’s packed with protein and nutrients and provides complete and balanced nutrition resulting in a happy and healthy pup!—Vicki (from $15, drbslongevity.com) 8 Every outfit I wear is made a thousand times cuter with these pretty Atticus Schnauzer Stud Earrings from Carrie Cramer. With the choice of yellow, white, or rose gold there’s a style for every dog lover or why not spoil yourself and get all three!—Yaunna ($295, carriecramer.com) 9 Easily (and deliciously!) support your dog’s digestion with Primal’s Winter Squash Puree Edible Elixir. Made with organic butternut squash, healthy bone broth, and beneficial ingredients like apple cider vinegar, your dog will love this yummy food topper!—Connie (from $8, primalpetfoods.com) 10 As soon as I pick up a bag of Cranberry Cobbler Bearnola Bites from Charlee Bear, my dog comes running! These tasty treats are perfect for training or just as a reward for being a good dog. Made with natural ingredients like oats and honey, there’s no need to worry about your dog consuming anything harmful or unhealthy.—Alice ($8, charleebear.com) 11 This adorable Corgi Canvas Fanny Pack from Nayo the Corgi is my new favourite thing and means I can show my love of Corgis everywhere! It’s just perfect for storing essentials when out and about and it easily folds up meaning I can take it with me wherever.—Georgia ($36, nayothecorgi.com)

TIPS N TRICKS

Dog Life Hacks!

W OO F YEAH !

Poop Emergencies and an Ingenious Pet Travel Tip Caught without a bag? I emptied treats into my purse and used the bag to scoop the poop. Another life hack for pet parents: if you’re traveling solo, map your restroom breaks at pet stores. They allow you to bring your pets inside, so you don’t leave them in the car.—Laura Riddle

How to Give a Dog a Pill: Mini Marshmallows and Other Discoveries I had a dog who would NOT take a pill. I finally discovered he loved mini marshmallows and he couldn’t eat around the pill.—Sue Flint Wet cat food on a spoon works every time!—Karen Louise, Mehlville, Missouri I get our Pom/Papillon mix to take his monthly heart worm medication by crushing and stirring it into a small jar of Gerber’s pure chicken baby food. I tried everything else with no luck. Now he looks forward to it.

—Rebecca Wood, Beckley, West Virginia

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Modern Dog readers shared their best dog tips, from the easiest way to get your dog to swallow a pill to what to do if you forgot poop bags, and genius techniques for bathing a reluctant dog.

Genius Grooming Tips Want to get your pup ready for the groomer, besides brushing regularly? Get an electric toothbrush and slowly rub it on them so they feel the vibration. The clipper will then not be as scary when it comes to grooming. Make sure to give lots of praise and rewards.—Jessica Lichtenwalner, Groomer and owner of Pawlished Tails Pet Salon, Trexlertown, Pennsylvania Peanut butter spread on a plastic lid taped to wall of tub helps occupy a dog who isn't too fond of baths. Same works on a grooming table for nail trims and scissoring.—Jennifer Hollis I keep my dog’s head dry as long as possible when I bathe him.

He doesn’t shake as long as his head is dry.—Sue Flint The best way to keep a dog from shaking water all over you is to keep their head up. If their head is up, they can’t shake. If they get their head down to shake, gently grab their scruff and they won’t shake.—Samantha-Kate Brown, Cambridge, ON

Find Your Tribe Don’t be afraid to reach out to other dog owners. I belong to the Jack Russell Terrier Rescue and two dog park groups. It is nice to be able to ask questions without feeling silly or stupid. I have asked some weird questions about my two rescued Jacks. There are so many dog groups and different breed rescues that you could find help and comfort with someone who has been there, done that.

—Lorri Najbor, Hamilton, ON

THE SCOOP

Sup Pup Paddleboard Tours (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)

SUP A WI TH PUP!

Animal Vacation Experiences!

Help rescue the lost dogs of Chernobyl, skateboard with a world record-winning Bulldog, or paddle-board alongside a Corgi with Airbnb’s new animal-focused experiences

G

oat yoga, anyone? From paddle-boarding with a Corgi (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) to tea with naughty sheep (Loch Lomond, Scotland), Airbnb now offers the opportunity to get to know over 300 species in unique ways with people who care for their welfare. Dog-focused experiences include an animal communication workshop in Snowdonia, UK, or even the opportunity to help rescue puppies lost within the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Hosted by locals, these experiences allow guests to learn from the people who work and live alongside animals, including biologists, conservationists, farmers, and more.

What you won’t find? Experiences where you can kiss a dolphin or ride an elephant. Guests meet animals in places that allow for gentle observation and bring a sense of connection far beyond animal selfies or performances—“an antidote to typical tourist attractions that are notorious for ethical concerns,” says the company.

To ensure interactions are respectful and responsible, Airbnb’s animal policy was created with World Animal Protection, an international welfare organization committed to creating a world free from animal cruelty. 

Tea with Naughty Sheep (Loch Lomond, Scotland)

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF AIRBNB

Learn to Communicate with Animals (Snowdonia, UK)

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AIRBNB

THE SCOOP

Living the Ruff Life with Lee Asher (Lake Tahoe, California)

Meet the Dogs of Chernobyl (Chernihiv, Ukraine)

We’ve seen that Airbnb Experiences with animals are consistently popular with our guests,” says the company.

“In our top 25 markets, experiences including animals are over 33 percent more likely to be highly occupied than the average experience.

“We know people love animals and want to see and experience them when they travel, but we also know they most want to see animals in a setting that respects their well-being,” said Alesia Soltanpanah, Executive Director World Animal Protection.

The reception so far has been “fantastic,” says Airbnb. One customer favourite is Hike Runyon Canyon With a Rescue Dog (Los Angeles, CA). Along with exercising and socializing the rescue dogs, guests take photos of them to help publicize their cases. Some dogs have even found forever homes with participants. The photos are used to help bring in donations for the pups' care and generate adoption interest. Along the way, guests take in some of the best sites, including the famous Hollywood sign. The payment for this experience is a donation to the animal welfare nonprofit, helping pay for the care of the very dogs guests will be walking.

Considers the Animal’s Welfare First: World Animal

Protections’ Guidelines for Respectful Animal Interactions: Wild animals: there should be no direct contact including, but not limited to, petting, feeding, or riding animals Working animals: maximum one rider and never more than 20% of the animal’s weight, never to be overworked Marine mammals: should never be in captivity for entertainment

“With technology taking up so much of Businesses: should not our lives, it’s easy to feel disconnected feature elephant rides, big from nature and animals,” said Brian Chesky, Airbnb CEO and Co-founder. cat interactions, illegal wildlife “Maybe this is why social media is trade, sporting events such as dominated by animal memes. Life canned and trophy hunting, is better with animals, but for many or animals performing for busy people, looking at them through entertainment a screen is the closest they can get.

With Airbnb Animal Experiences, locals and travelers are just a few clicks away from being alongside them in the real world.” 

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THE SCOOP They run errands with their dogs.

They take their dogs everywhere.

James Middleton, Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge's younger brother, runs his daily errands with his pack.

Amanda Seyfried arrives with her best friend Finn at The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to promote her latest movie, The Art of Racing in the Rain.

They us! like

They take their dogs to the vet.

Seth Rogen and wife Lauren Miller look relieved after picking up their dog Zelda from VCA Animal Hospital in Santa Monica. It's unclear what their beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniel had gone in for but the couple were certainly thrilled to be taking her home.

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They kiss their dogs!

Courtney Love kisses and hugs her Pomeranian Bell in Manhattan's Soho area as she hails a cab.

P H OTOS B AC KG R I D

! s r a St ’re just

THE SCOOP CAPTION THIS! Exercise your funny bone. Create a caption for this cartoon and submit your entry at moderndogmagazine.com/cartooncaption.

The most comic captions will be published in the next issue.

MD TESTED APPRO & VED!

Off Leash Adventures

AND THE WINNING CAPTION FROM THE FALL ISSUE IS…

Perfect for the dog park or bigger excursions, Dexas’ new line of adventure driven off-leash toys are a must have for all dog owners. Featuring a convenient and innovative integrated clip, the toys quickly connect to the leash, allowing for hands-free transport and easy release when your dog is ready to play. You can choose from three different styles depending on what type of toy your dog likes: a Frisbee Flyer, ridged ball or oblong tumbler, all with a removable leash attachment. Both the ball and tumbler have a hollow centre for hiding treats or kibble to encourage play and keep your pup occupied. What’s also great is that the toys are made from a super sturdy rubber making them long lasting and perfect for heavy chewers. And all the toys are also waterproof and float, adding to their adventure-based toy status. Whether you’re at the park, on a hike, at the beach, or pretty much anywhere else, these toys are easy to pack along and are designed to handle whatever your dog throws at them!

A Modern Dog staffers' two thumbs up! ($15, Find it on Amazon)

C A RTO O N S © 2019/2020 BY DAV I D J ACO B S O N

New range of leash connective toys are perfect for the adventuring pup!

"So uncle Wally was reincarnated."

Submitted by: Caroline Lozinski RUNNER-UP CAPTIONS "After last year's leg-lifting fiasco, Walter had to come to the show incognito."

Submitted by: Tina Flores

"Douglas was an unusual dog that could make anyone laugh."

Submitted by: Amber Fedor

"The official lineup to find out who peed on the judge's shoe."

Submitted by: Charles Vaughan

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!

E L I SM Jake

Husky-Malamute Cross

Modern Dog’s Photo Contest Winners!

macchiato

Indigo

Chihuahua Mix

Australian Shepherd

Francis Maltese Mix

Tiki Sergeant Major

Tala

Pomeranian

Mix

Treeing Walker Coonhound

Ghost Samoyed

Lucy

Golden Doodle

Spud

Miniature Australian Shepherd

Shortie Chihuahua

Bentley Bowser Corgi

Sid

Sapphire

Staffie

Husky

Milo

Dachshund

Dahlila

Leo

Beagle

Siberian Husky

Midas Golden/Lab Retriever

Abigail

Cocker Spaniel

Moana

Boomer

Border Collie Mix

Cavapoo

Harper Tibetan Mastiff

Gita

Bertie

Long Haired Miniature Dachshund

Border Collie

Think your dog ought to be in Modern Dog?

Champ

Golden Retriever

Rosie Pug

Koda Pitbull

Upload your dog’s photo at moderndogmagazine.com/ photocontest. Not only will he or she be entered to be our Dog of the Week, but a selection of the photos entered will appear on these pages!

ENTER TO WIN

We’re giving it away! Enter to win fabulous giveaways each and every week in December, January, and February.

Go to moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways to enter! Lucky readers will win every week.

December

1st-7th

Win a Lovoom to play with your pup even when you’re away. Wireless HD camera, 2-way audio, and kibble tossing function included.

8th-14th

15th-21st

22nd-31st

8th-14th

15th-21st

22nd-31st

8th-14th

15th-21st

22nd-29th

Win 1 of 4 $50 gift cards to The Organic Companion!

Each entrant will receive an automatic $5 coupon!

Win 1 of 3 prize packs from Imagilin! Keep your pup happy and healthy with a selection of their probiotic supplements.

Win 1 of 3 baskets of all natural dog supplements from Animal Necessity! Includes their Ocu-GLO vision supplement for optimum vision health!

January

1st-7th

Win this solid oak, 4 bottle wine rack from Anything Dogs! Choose your favourite from a selection of 65 dog breeds.

Win 1 of 10 prize packs from Lil’ Archie’s! Includes one box of compostable dog waste bags, an Eco-Canvas waste bag dispenser, and a metal leash attachment.

Win 1 of 3 prize packs from NomNomNow! Includes a variety pack for dogs, a bag each of chicken and beef jerky, and a microbiome kit!

Win 1 of 4 bone chew toy duos from TEX’s Smoke’N’Chews!

Each bone is made from durable, BPA-free material for aggressive chewers.

February

1st-7th

Win 1 of 5 prize packs from Spot Farms! Includes a selection of dog food, treats, and a tote bag.

Win a prize pack from Tall Tails! Includes a bed, blanket, 4 plush squeaker toys and a Waterproof Pad.

Win 1 of 12 Furzoff, the new and better way to remove pet hair from your home and vehicles.

Made in the USA of 90% recycled material, it's 100% durable!

Win 1 of 2 test kits from 5Strands Affordable Pet Testing! Create a healthier lifestyle for your pets by discovering and managing their food intolerances and environmental allergens.

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Beginning December 1, 2019 at 12:01 AM (PST) through February 29, 2020 at 11:59 PM (PST), enter each day at moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways. Each week’s giveaway ends at 11:59 PM (PST). Each week, the specified number of winners for that week’s giveaway will win the prize featured in the giveaway calendar (ARV: $200). Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. Contest is open to legal Canadian and US residents 18 and older as of date of entry. Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. Giveaway subject to complete official rules available at moderndogmagazine.com/giveaways.

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INSET PHOTO: BUG SUBMITTED BY ANDREW REID

s y a w a e v i G t a Gre

Commonly Confused Breeds

Alaskan Malamute

Siberian Husky

The Alaskan Malamute VS the Siberian Husky How to tell the difference + Are these breeds for you?

T

hough both the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute are sled dogs through and through, there are differences between these friendly, thickly coated pack dogs, most notably size.

Siberian Huskies are smaller and lighter than their heftier cousin, the Alaskan Malamute. The Malamute is heavier boned and is an all-around more substantial, seriously strong dog. Both are pack animals of Arctic origin, but the more compact Husky is nimble, quick, and graceful, where the Malamute, a heavy-duty worker, is powerful, deep chested, and strong shouldered. Both have incredible endurance, but the Husky was developed for lighter loads. What they have in common: both of these loyal, friendly but dignified dogs love their families, need their exercise, and prefer cooler climes.

The Alaskan Malamute Affectionate, loyal, playful

The Alaskan Malamute’s origin is as an Arctic sled dog, and it shows. This powerful, substantial, heavy-duty worker dog is immensely strong, weighing in at 75 to 85 pounds.

He’s heavy boned and possesses a thick, dense, weatherproof coat that is clean and generally odourless, but sheds a lot. Kind, intelligent almond-shaped brown eyes hint at the Malamute’s love for snuggling with the fam. That said, firm yet loving training is necessary, or your Mal will take charge. Is the Malamute for you? Be prepared to get your exercise—this energetic breed (moderate to high) definitely needs more than

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a stroll around the block. He’s also prone to chasing small animals and it’s best to socialize him to other dogs as he can be dominant. With his gentle, friendly, and playful spirit, though, he’s great with kids. Affectionate, loyal, and dignified, he makes a great companion for active owners who don’t mind a bit of dog hair.

The Siberian Husky Loyal, friendly, mischievous

This medium-sized, graceful, compact sled dog should weigh no more than 60 pounds. Originally developed by the Chukchi people of Siberia, they were brought to Nome, Alaska, in 1908 for sled-dog racing. The Siberian Husky is a devoted family member (note this friendly breed makes an indifferent watchdog).

The Husky is thickly coated, though naturally clean, with little doggy odour—but sheds a lot. Unlike the brown-eyed Malamute, the Husky’s almond-shaped eyes can be either brown or blue— or sometimes one of each.

Quick and nimble-footed, Siberian Huskies are known for their powerful but seemingly effortless gait, notes the AKC. Is the Husky for you? Not if your idea of a good time is a marathon Netflix session. The Husky is an energetic (read very active) breed prone to chasing small animals. Where kids are concerned, the Husky is better with supervision, though he gets along well with other dogs. If you’re active, this loyal, outgoing, mischievous, friendly, fastidious, and dignified dog may be the breed for you!

Could Play Be the Medicine Your Dog Needs?

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Stressed dog? Depressed dog?

Play may be the answer

By Stanley Coren

M

ax seemed to be having a bad time over the past couple of weeks. He had lost his appetite, was not eating or drinking the way he normally did and thus, was losing weight quickly. He seemed to be lethargic, and spent a lot more time than usual sleeping. When he was awake, he seemed nervous, edgy, and common events seemed to worry him. None of the usual activities that normally made him happy seemed to interest him. Any psychologist seeing a person with Max’s symptoms would conclude that he was probably suffering from stress and its most common companion ailment, depression. The problem is that Max is not a person, but a German Shepherd.

It was the late 1980s when Nicholas Dodman of the School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University was standing next to a colleague looking at a dog that had been brought into the Animal Behavior Clinic. The dog was showing symptoms similar to Max. Extrapolating from what he knew about human behavioural symptoms, Dr. Dodman concluded that the dog he was examining that day was stressed and depressed. For a human with these symptoms, the diagnosis would have been clinical depression, and so it seemed to him that this was also a reasonable diagnosis to suggest for the dog. His colleague shook his head and warned him about the dangers of treating dogs as if they had such human-like feelings. His colleague argued, “Dogs don’t experience the same mental states and emotions that people do.”

Dr. Dodman responded, “Look, the dog's brain is structurally similar to that of a human being. The biochemistry of a dog's nervous system works exactly the same as it does in humans. We now know stress and depression in humans is accompanied by chemical and hormonal changes. Here we have a dog who is showing the same kinds of symptoms, which we might observe in a stressed and depressed person. Let me propose an experimental treatment. Let’s give the dog an antidepressant drug, the same kind that we use in people, and see what happens.”

What happened made history since the dog’s behaviour improved dramatically and ever since then veterinarians and animal behaviorists have begun to accept the fact that dogs, like people, can suffer from the psychological and physical effects of stress.

Stressors come in a variety of different types, but one of the most important factors is how long the stress continues. Some stressors can be severe, but short in duration (like when you safely survive a traffic accident), while others can be long-term (such as continuing financial difficulties). It is the long term stressors which are the most dangerous since psychological research has shown that these can cause a variety of physical and mental problems. Thus, people under continuing stress are more likely to have cardiovascular and immune system difficulties, and also are most apt to suffer from depression and other psychological troubles. The same holds for dogs, and to counteract the effects of continuing stress and depression, veterinarians now often follow Dodman's  moderndogmagazine.com

29

lead and prescribe the canine equivalent of Prozac. Such treatment has become so common for dogs that this canine antidepressant drug now even comes in beef flavour.

on a daily schedule. Not only is this a labour-intensive process, but the radioimmunoassay to determine the cortisol concentration in each sample is complex and costly.

When behavioural researchers became interested in the study of stress in dogs they encountered some problems.

Dogs are not verbal, so they can't tell us when they are feeling tense and anxious. That meant researchers had to rely on visible signs and signals from the dog. These were the ones that Dodman was using and also include a variety of signs specifically based upon canine body language, such as observation on how the dog's ears are postured and the activity of the dog’s tail. While such signals can answer the yes or no question, “Is this dog stressed?”, it cannot provide a quantitative measure of just how stressed the dog is.

Fortunately, a new technique has been developed. It turns out that molecules of cortisol in the blood also tend to be incorporated into growing hair (or fur). As the hair grows, one begins to get an extended picture of the amount of cortisol in the body, and presumably the amount of stress experienced by the individual over longer periods of time.

Studies on humans have shown increased cortisol levels in hair of individuals suffering from chronic pain, people who are unemployed, and those who have continuing depression. Based on such findings one can surmise that dogs living with long-term stress levels will show greater amounts of cortisol in their fur.

The breakthrough for the study of canine stress came when researchers recognized that stressed dogs secrete the same anxiety related hormones humans do. The critical marker for stress is the amount of cortisol that is released into the blood system, since this plays a crucial part in the body's response to different kinds of stressors. In dogs, for example, an increased cortisol level can indicate a sharp increase in stress from a sudden frightening stimulus. For researchers, the concentration of cortisol is a wonderful tool since it is possible to determine, in real time, the amount of stress the dog is feeling by taking blood samples, or more recently, by simply taking saliva samples (which is better since swabbing the dog's mouth does not add to his stress level in the way that drawing blood might).

However, suppose a researcher was interested in measuring the continuing stress levels experienced by a dog over a period of days, weeks, or longer. This would require many saliva swabs to be taken over a long period of time, perhaps

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This was the underlying hypothesis adopted by a team of researchers headed by Lina Roth at the biology department at Linköping University in Sweden. Theirs was an extended study with lots of different measures. The test subjects were 59 German Shepherds. The investigators chose to limit their testing to one breed in order to reduce the likelihood of any possible genetic differences. The dogs were tested three times, in January, May, and September of the same year. At these times fur samples were taken and analyzed for their cortisol level. In addition, the dog owners filled out several different research questionnaires, which were designed to give information about the personality of the dogs, their typical behaviours, and the lifestyle the dogs most commonly experienced.

As might be expected with so many measures, a large number of results were reported, some showing complex and difficult to interpret findings. However, the most

impressive finding was a pattern of results, which showed dogs who experience positive human interactions are much less likely to experience chronic stress responses extending over time.

Setting the tone for this was the fact that lower cortisol levels were found in the dogs owned by people who agreed with the statement that the purpose of the dog is simply to have a nice companion.

Significantly lower cortisol levels, indicating lower long-term stress levels, were found in the dogs whose owners played with them often

Significantly lower cortisol levels, indicating lower longterm stress levels, were found in the dogs whose owners played with them often. One might have expected that, since most play activities involve lots of movement on the part of the dog, such activity alone might have bumped up cortisol responses. However, this data shows playful interactions between the dog and the owner serve as a prolonged buffer against stress in canines.

the owner played with their dog and also whether the owners used [a] toy/treat when rewarding their dog.

Both these results could reflect that friendly and encouraging relationships are related to less stress in the dogs."

Finally, confirming many earlier reports, which showed the use of rewards during training has a more beneficial effect on dogs than the application of force or discipline, this study found lower cortisol levels for dogs whose owners report that they usually reward the dog with a treat or a chance to play with a toy when the dog behaves correctly.

The researchers summarize their results saying, “Maybe not surprising but [a] still welcome result is that a negative correlation was found between cortisol level and how often

The good news from this study is that a reduction in a dog's sustained stress levels can be obtained simply from common short episodes involving positive interactions.

Who would have thought that by simply tossing a tennis ball for your dog to fetch or playing tug-of-war, you are effectively providing your dog with a stress reducing antidepressant effect that seems to last over a substantial amount of time. And all of this is confirmed by the longterm diary of a dog's day-to-day stress levels, as recorded in his fur! 

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From

249

$

If your dog is reluctant to go upstairs, slips easily, or is a senior dog with sore joints, you need to get a set of stair treads from Dean Flooring.

Simply place on the stairs in your home and help your dog get upstairs with ease. deanstairtreads.com

From

240

$

Get cozy with the adorable Choco Tent from The Basic Concept! With a chic wood frame, stylish soft pink fabric, and a snuggly cushion, it’s the perfect place for your pup to curl up. thebasicconcept.com

rill tions to th lu o s r io r g Inte & your do both you

From

75

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Brighten your home with a beautiful and unique pet portrait from Illustrate-It. Simply send an image of your dog and it will be transformed into a stunning artwork. A lovely (and affordable!) tribute to a canine friend. illustrate-it.ca

From

1,595

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Add a bit of rustic luxury to your home office with a kennel desk from Kennel and Crate. Featuring a farmhouse top, custom stain, and keyboard drawer, this unique desk also has a built in dog crate, perfect for pups that like to chill and sleep near you as you work! kennelandcrate.com

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From

190

$

The luxurious Double Donut Teal Bed from Bowsers pairs cozy micro-velvet with an orthopedic foam insert, making it an ideal choice for seniors or dogs with sore joints. bowsers.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Benefits of CBD for Your Dog From pain relief to anxiety management, CBD proponents say it can do it all—even fight cancer but is it right for your dog?

I

f you follow any wellness conversations, you’ve no doubt heard the miraculous stories around CBD oil: dogs with cancer granted a new lease on life; seizures (in dogs and in people) controlled when all other forms of conventional medication failed; anxiety quelled; pain controlled; appetites rekindled. Even Martha Stewart’s French Bulldog partakes, reports the New York Times. In fact, she’s launching her own CBD line in conjunction with Snoop Dog. Suddenly, CBD is everywhere. But what is this wonder drug, and could it help your dog? CBD comes from the cannabis plant but unlike marijuana, which contains high levels of THC, it’s nonpsychoactive, meaning it won’t make you or your dog high. (CBD products must have a THC content of 0.3 percent or less.)

What it can do is offer serious pain relief, thanks to the cannabinoids it contains. Humans and dogs have specific cannabinoid receptor sites in the body. By interacting with these receptors, CBD effects neurotransmitters in the body, reducing pain and inflammation. (Think of it as a key in a lock.)

In addition to anti-inflammatory effects and pain relief, studies have shown that CBD oil can decrease chronic inflammation, manage seizures and anxiety, and even fight cancer! Pretty amazing stuff, right? And despite being hemp-derived, it’s legal in both Canada and the US. Interested in giving it a try? We’ve rounded up a selection of companies offering CBD, formulated especially for dogs, in the form of tinctures, treats, and oils.

Want to give it a try?

CBD-infused oils make delivery a breeze!

Medix $30

Your dog will love the smoky bacon flavour of Medix’s CBD Oil for Dogs, an easy-to-administer tincture formulated to help reduce anxiety and insomnia while providing pain relief for your pup. medixcbd.com

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$31

Blue Ridge Botanicals These Broad Spectrum THC-free CBD drops from Blue Ridge Botanicals go down easy and are formulated to reduce pain and inflammation to help your dog feel great! blueridgebotanicalsco.com

Tuscan Natural $50

With positive health benefits such as pain and nausea relief, increased appetite, reduced anxiety, and more, Tuscan Natural’s Simply Pure CBD oil can help improve your pup’s quality of life so they can focus on doing the things they love! shoptuscannatural.com

$82

CBD For Canines Give CBD a try with these products formulated for pets!

Iceland Pure

MediPets

Made with pharmaceutical grade fish oil, and USA grown CBD, Iceland Pure’s Next Level Premier CBD Fish Oil is specially formulated for dogs to provide a whole range of benefits including reducing anxiety, and aches and pains. icelandpure.com

Your dog will be begging for more of these CBD Chicken Meatballs from MediPets CBD. Made with CBD sourced from industrial hemp, each meatball contains 7mg of CBD to make dosing easy and will help keep your dog’s mind and body healthy. medipetscbd.com

$27

$30

Dr. Fuzzball’s

Grizzly Pet Products

Dr. Fuzzball’s CBD Coconutty Oil for Dogs can reduce your dog’s stress, calm nerves, and relieve itchy skin.

Made with only cold-pressed coconut oil and organic broad-spectrum hemp extract with CBD, it’s a great addition to your dog’s diet to keep them happy and healthy. drfuzzballs.com

If your dog is experiencing hip or joint pain, try Grizzly Pet Product’s Hemp Enhanced Joint Aid Liquid. Its synergistic blend of five active joint support ingredients, wild fish oil, and organically grown hemp oil can help reduce stiffness, pain, and inflammation. grizzlypetproducts.com

$20

$40

$50

Austin and Kat Perfect for the active dog! Keep aches and pains at bay with these tasty wheat and gluten-free Active Formula wellness biscuits from Austin and Kat. They’re made with whole ingredients like salmon and blueberry along with full-spectrum CBD to keep your active pup happy, healthy, and feeling good. austinandkat.com

Green Roads

Healthier Pet

Pawse CBD

Does your small breed dog have stressors affecting their mood and behaviour? Green Roads’ Small Dog CBD Drops may be the answer! Simply give the daily amount, which may help stressors that challenge your furry BFF. greenroadsworld.com

Specially formulated to help treat a variety of ailments from chronic pain to anxiety, these Health Drops from Healthier Pet work quickly and effectively. CBD is combined with hemp seed oil and fish oil to provide your dog with added health benefits. healthierpet.org

Pawse Daily Support CBD oil is a ‘made just for pets’ formulation of broad spectrum (THC free) hemp extract, coconut MCT oil, and plant derived terpenes.

Pawse makes it easy to identity correct dosage and safely administer orally via their plastic dropper. pawse.pet

$53

$29

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TRAINING

PHOTOS BIGSTOCK

d on ' t e v en ! try me

WHEN YOUR DOG DOESN’T WANT TO SHARE THE COUCH

By Nicole Wilde

I

t’s been a long work day and you’re finally home. You change clothes and head wearily to the couch to watch your favourite television show. But surprise! Your dog is already there, happily lounging in your spot. You ask him to get down. He doesn’t move. You ask again. Nothing. Finally, you grab his collar. Suddenly, you discover just how white your dog’s teeth are—he’s showing them to you, and if there was a thought-bubble, it would read, “I don’t think so!” What are you to do?

This scenario is, unfortunately, not uncommon. Many dogs do not like having their collar grabbed or being moved physically.

Some will growl, show teeth, or even bite. Those things happen either because someone is trying to get the dog to do something he doesn’t want to do, because the dog perceives being reached for or physically manipulated in that way as threatening, or both.

While it is your couch and your dog should dismount when asked, there’s no need for it to turn into a battle of wills or worse, a showdown of physical strength. The answer lies in a combination of management to be implemented immediately

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and a training exercise to solve the problem long-term. For management, take a very short nylon leash—no more than two to three feet long—and cut the loop off the end. You have just created a drag line, so named because your dog will be dragging it around the house. (The loop has been removed so it won’t get caught on furniture.) Clip the leash to your dog’s collar as you normally would. The next time your dog is on the couch but you’d like him to get down, simply walk over, take hold of the end of the drag line, turn away, and in a pleasant voice say, “Off!” as you walk away. Your dog will have no choice but to go with you, and you will have avoided the dreaded collar grab. Again, this is simply a management strategy to be used temporarily so no one gets hurt.

Now for the training part. It’s only fair that if we want our dogs to vacate the couch when asked, we teach the proper response to our cue first. Grab some treats and walk with your dog to the couch. Say, “Up!” in a high, happy voice while encouraging him by patting the couch cushion to jump up. Reward with praise and a treat. Next, stand with your side facing the couch. Hold the treats in the hand furthest from your dog and, while using that same pleasant, encouraging voice to say, “Off!” use your

other arm to make a swooping gesture that starts near your dog and ends with you pointing at the ground. (Note: If you’re already using “Off!” for things such as jumping on people, choose a different word. Be wary of using, “Down!” though, if you already use it to ask your dog to lie down.) Your dog should jump down. If he does, praise and reward. If he doesn’t, try again but this time, put a treat in the motioning hand so the swooping motion turns into a lure. Once he’s on the ground, reward with praise and a treat. Do a few repetitions, then end the session.

Practice short sessions frequently. You can follow the cue to get off the couch with another request such as to lie down at your feet or to go to bed. With practice, “Off!” should become a familiar cue that your dog understands and complies with in daily life. Just don’t use the cue in a real-life situation until you’ve practiced enough that it’s second nature to your dog.

One last thought: If you really don’t mind your dog being on the couch with you but you’d like him to keep off your prized spot, place a blanket in the place where you’d like him to lie, and teach him that he is only allowed on the couch while lying on the blanket. moderndogmagazine.com

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INSPIRE

Barkin’ For A Cure Philanthropic dogs are helping raise money for canine and human cancer research

by Alice Sewell

A

nyone who has had a dog knows that they are more than just a pet; they’re family. They grow up with us, accompany us on our travels (whether the Home Depot or farther afield), and share our homes and everyday experiences. Unfortunately, they are also at risk of developing many of the same illnesses we are, with cancer being one of the most common. In fact, more than one million companion dogs are diagnosed with cancer every year. The most common form of canine cancer is lymphoma, a cancer that affects the immune system and attacks cells in the lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen, and other parts of the body. As with human cancer diagnoses, it is easy to automatically think the worst, but there is hope for dogs diagnosed with lymphoma.

In an effort to help fight this common form of canine cancer, as well as raise awareness and funds to help fight human forms of leukemia and lymphoma too, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) launched the Dog of the Year contest. This fundraising effort challenges America’s most philanthropic dogs (and their humans) to raise money for both canine and human cancer research. At the end of the four-week fundraising competition, one dog is awarded the prestigious title of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Dog of the Year.

This year’s triumphant pup was Callie, a one-year-old smooth Collie/Shepherd mix from San Antonio, Texas, who along with her owner, Shiloh Barry, and their supporters raised an incredible $15,600 for the cause. Shiloh has been extremely

involved with LLS since her sister was diagnosed with stage 3 Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoblastic Lymphoma at age two. She was motivated to enter the Dog of the Year contest, she says, so that no other child or family has to endure what her family experienced. Fortunately, Shiloh’s sister Ella is now in full remission and heading off to college. With her family through the worst, Shiloh felt it was her time to give back, help others (whether child, adult or canine), and honour her sister and others who have battled cancer.

In order to raise over $15,000, Shiloh and Callie used social media, email, and letters to promote their cause. They also organized a series of fun dog-themed events, including a “Yappy Hour,” “Wag Your Tail For Cancer” fitness class, “Pawty with Callie” dog park party, and “Barkin with Callie” karaoke night.

In total, the contest raised over $46,000 for canine and human leukemia and lymphoma research. Funds raised are invested in pioneering research, patient and family support programs, and advocacy efforts to help make treatment more affordable and accessible. It is interesting to note that as dogs and humans are 85-percent genetically identical, cancer affects both species in similar ways. Treatments developed to treat blood cancers in humans can be modified to help treat dogs and vice versa, so whether money is put towards human or canine cancer research, the other will also benefit from the research and treatment breakthroughs, increasing survival rates for both humans and dogs. And that’s something we can get behind!

Interested in supporting The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society? Learn more about their work and donate at lls.org. And if Callie’s story has motivated you to fundraise in the Dog of the Year contest, the 2020 campaign dates will be announced soon at lls.org/dogoftheyear.

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Conversations With Dogs

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Reflections on the unique role our pups play in our lives

By Alexandra Horowitz | Illustrations by Michelle Simpson Dr. Horowitz is a cognitive scientist who studies dogs. She heads the Horowitz Dog Cognition Lab and is the New York Times bestselling author of Inside of a Dog. Her new book is Our Dogs, Ourselves: The Story of a Singular Bond.

S

ometimes people ask me why I study dogs. Apart from the obvious pleasures of spending my life observing, studying, and being around dogs, what is it that makes them scientifically interesting? There are a dozen answers to that—from their impressive social-cognitive skills to their entirely different (olfactory) worldview—but the reason I got especially interested is because of their special status in our lives. In particular, the familiarity of dogs leads us to make all sorts of assumptions about them. Why, dogs are accompanying us constantly—there may be dogs by your side now—and though they are likely not reading along with you, it feels as though they are in on whatever we're doing, doing it with us, in the fullest sense of “with.” (That they don't speak up and protest even feels like validation of this sense.)

The very fact of their familiarity, and the ease with which they move among our species, is the reason I came to write my new book.

I research dog behaviour in two ways: first, I observe dogs in their natural environment, usually outside, among people and other dogs; second, I bring dogs and their people into my lab, where the dogs face some puzzle or task and I record what they do. Recently, most of my research is targeted to better understand what it's like to perceive the world as they do—through their nose. We've studied whether they detect quantity via olfaction; their recognition of themselves, other dogs, and their owners by smell; and if participating in scent games makes them more optimistic (it did).

In all kinds of studies, even while I'm mostly looking at the dogs, I also see the relationship with their people. And as a someone who lives with dogs myself, I think a good amount about the dynamic we have with dogs.

This book emerged from that thinking. How does the dog-human bond work?

How did we come to treat dogs the way we do? I was keen to explore the myriad ways we see dogs as reflections of ourselves—in both very sweet ways and sometimes ways that cause us not to see them for who they are.

While 95 percent of us consider dogs our family, dogs are simply property, chattel, in the eyes of the law, and this has a lot of repercussions for dogs. For instance, we are allowed to do things to their bodies, including cropping ears and docking tails; we can breed dogs for profit; we are permitted to give up dogs when they are inconvenient or misbehaved. We can de-sex dogs, and we do, to solve a problem that we humans created and maintain: their overpopulation.  moderndogmagazine.com

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“Somebody has a bagel, and it’s not you. And it’s not gonna be you with that kind of behavior.”

(Man to rapacious hound)

“I see you doing weird stuff. Cut it out.”

(Woman to one of her four small dogs)

“You guys are going to have to get coordinated.”

At the same time, we buy property for our dogs. There is a multi-billion-dollar industry of collars, booties, raincoats, track suits, bedding, every manner of squeaky toys, so our property owns property (I know my dog Finnegan thinks he owns one particular orange and blue ball.)

We've inherited some of our ways of dealing with dogs from past generations, along with questionable motivations, and they are worth looking at again.

quite a lot—and I began recording what people said when I happened by them. We don't quite treat them like we're talking to each other, or to babies, but we often let them in our most private thoughts. We converse with them. Their role is singular. I researched how we name dogs, and we can see a very clear trend to naming dogs with human names. No longer Rexes and Spots, they are Lucy, Bella, Charlie, Daisy, Max, and George. Just like our grandparents, or our hopedfor children.

At the same time, to our species' credit, I have observed many ways that we extend our circle to include this other species. One of the non-obvious ways that we treat dogs as people is in how we talk to them. I began overhearing how people spoke to their dogs in public—and they did, quite a lot—and hearing myself talk to my dogs—and I do,

I very much see the culture of dogdom as worth examining closely. Not just for the dogs. They are friendly, tail-wagging ambassadors for the animal world that we increasingly distance ourselves from. I think we should ask ourselves: How do we live with dogs now? And how should we live with dogs—and all animals—tomorrow? 

“If you make it to the end of the fence, you get a biscuit.

If you lie down, no biscuit.”

(Woman to Corgi probably not going to make it to the end of the fence)

“We’ve talked about this: No eating stuff you find on the street.”

(Man to foraging dog)

“Be part of the solution, buddy.”

(Woman to dog being part of the problem)

“Don’t even think about it.”

(Woman to thoughtful dog)

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I L L US T R AT I O N S M I C H E L L E S I M P S O N

(Woman to two dogs pulling in different directions)

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P H OTOS B E N K A N E

ADVICE

LOVING BIG & LETTING GO How to heal your heart after the loss of a dog

By Jennifer Nosek

T

o love and let go—it’s the single most important thing we can learn in this lifetime, says Rachel Brathen, the New York Times bestselling author of Yoga Girl and world-renowned yoga instructor who teaches and leads retreats across the globe.

Only, what if you don’t want to let go? What if you feel like your heart has been broken? And what if what was lost was a canine best friend, and the world seems to be expecting you to brush yourself off and buck up—it was “just a dog,” right?— when you’ve been brought to your knees by grief? Rachel has been there.

Her new book, To Love and Let Go, is a moving memoir of love, loss, and gratitude, inspired by three years of trials, including the death of her soul-mate best friend, her grandmother, and her beloved dog Pepper. Of these losses, it was Pepper’s passing that she found most devastating, an experience shared by many dog people, and one that can make us feel ashamed.

Rachel’s honesty normalizes the experience.

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DI VE NEW IN! B OFFE O OK RS COM FORT GUID & ANCE

“Pepper’s death threw me in a way I wasn’t prepared for,” Rachel shares in her book.

“Everything I thought I’d learned in dealing with the loss of Andrea [my best friend], was a lie. I feel like I’ve learned nothing. It pains me deeply to admit this, so I don’t tell anyone, but it’s the truth: Pepper’s death hurt me more than Andrea’s.

I can’t tell anyone, because Pepper was a dog and Andrea was a human being, but Pepper was my baby and I failed him and it’s added a level of pain to my grief that I’m not in any way equipped for. Andrea was an adult—she drove the car. I was responsible for Pepper. He was counting on me to keep him safe and I didn’t. Pain is worse when it comes with guilt.”

Ah, the guilt, so deeply relatable. We ask ourselves, could I have saved my dog? Did I wait too long? Was it her time?

If you’ve ever helped a dog pass, chances are you’ve spent countless sleepless nights asking yourself these questions.

Rachel has been there too.

Rachel and Pepper.

“There is a second truth that I also didn’t speak out loud, because maybe I couldn’t bear to hear the words. I felt like I killed Pepper. Objectively, I knew I wasn’t solely responsible. He had seen so many veterinarians and no one knew what was wrong, so how could I be? But I was his mom. I should have known. If I hadn’t been so preoccupied with other things, if I hadn’t been so self-absorbed, I would have known.”

Added to this is the shame of having too big of a reaction—too much grief, too much heartbreak, too much falling apart for the passing of a dog. Rachel knows this too.

“It’s been a month now and he was only a dog and people tell me to move on—they don’t understand how my life has ended because my dog died. I guess from the outside, in light of Andrea dying and then my grandmother, it’s hard for people to understand why now, suddenly, I’m losing it. And it’s clear that I am. I can’t keep myself contained anymore. I keep bursting into tears at gatherings, at the beach with our friends at sunset, when I’m teaching yoga, at the grocery store waiting to pay for vegetables. I don’t care. I’ve kept myself together all year and I just can’t do it anymore.”

Ultimately, though, Rachel’s heart heals, and her experiences inspired her to share her journey and never-ending practice of loving hard and letting go so that she can help others. She shares this advice with Modern Dog: “The death of your dog can be soul crushing, sometimes even more so than the loss of a friend or family member,” Rachel says. “I connected with Pepper on such a deep level—deeper than I connect with a lot of humans. And when you lose a pet, society doesn’t really accept a long mourning period for that. A lot of people think you should move on quickly. I think that was why it was so hard for me to lose Pepper—I didn’t have a chance to really feel it.”

“If you are completely heartbroken by the loss of your dog, allow yourself to feel it and allow yourself to mourn! Don’t minimize your grief,” she continues. “Take however long you need and don’t worry about how other people think you should be dealing with this loss. If the love was big—and with our dogs it’s always huge!—the pain will be big, too. Talking to people who are going through something similar is helpful, too.

Only a person who has lost a dog will ever know the pain of that kind of loss. So... Be kind to yourself. Feel. It’s the only way to heal.” moderndogmagazine.com

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Shelter Wish List

Donate items found around your home to help dogs in need!

Want to donate to your local shelter or rescue group but lack funds and time? Why not collect goods needed by shelters from your own home, or those of friends and co-workers? The SPCA of Texas’ wish list of donation items, for example, includes daily shelter needs (towels, blankets, paper towels) as well as canned dog food, treats, and pill pockets, toys, and even canned tuna, apple sauce, graham crackers, and peanut butter. The following are items needed by many shelters. Repurpose some of your home goods and help dogs in need!

Daily Shelter Needs

Behaviour

Enrichment Program

Clean bath towels

Nylon leashes (6’ length; all widths)

Graham crackers

Blankets

Weiss Walkies training leashes

Hand sanitizer

H-Harnesses and easy walk harnesses

Apples, apple sauce, apple juice

Paper towels

Thundershirts (all sizes)

Bouillon cubes

Armour potted meat

Squeeze cheese

Nitrate-free hot dogs

Canned tuna + chicken

Block cheddar cheese

Bananas

Meat and gravy baby food

Plain yogurt

Baby or pet wipes Canned dog food Trash bags (all sizes) Window cleaner

We li Redba ke rn's Bully Sticks!

Peanut butter

Light cream cheese

Q-tips

Treats

Puppy pads

Pill Pockets

Snuggle Pets

Pupperoni

1-gallon Ziploc Bags

Beggin Strips

Dog friendly essential oils

Yummy Chummies

Apple corers

Freeze dried liver treats

Scissors + spray bottles

Toys Kong toys

of Hours Pet h fun wit ry's Facto eaky qu cute s ys! to

Nylabones

Small paper Dixie cups

Bully sticks

Grooming

Unstuffies

Administrative

Jolly Balls

Ink pens (blue/black), notepads

Lickimats

Copier paper (white or colour)

Clippers (ConairPRO Dog nail clippers) + blades (size 10 & 40)

Treat balls and puzzle toys

Post-it notes + highlighters

Dog shampoo (dry and regular)

Treat dispensers

Dry erase markers + spray

Furminator

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Cotton balls

State of the Art and State of the Heart The Fear Free principles of “America’s vet” Dr. Marty Becker are transforming veterinary practices and improving the emotional wellbeing of pets

By Jennifer Nosek

“W

e take the pet out of petrified,” says Dr. Marty Becker, a slogan that has become a rallying cry among enlightened vets.

Dr. Becker has been a veterinarian for almost four decades, a fulfilment of his childhood dream—he wanted to be a vet from the age of six. He’s owned part or all of eight veterinary hospitals in three states and has been known almost his entire career for celebrating, protecting, and nurturing the human-animal bond.

Still, Dr. Becker’s ‘a-ha’ moment didn’t occur until 2009 when he was at a large veterinary conference in Victoria, BC. He attended a talk by veterinary behaviourist Dr. Karen Overall, who spoke on how pets were almost always taken against their will for vet visits, grooming, boarding, and training.

Dr. Overall argued that those who care for animals (veterinarians, nurses, trainers, groomers) were causing repeat, severe psychological damage to pets by what they were doing—or not doing. It was a light-bulb moment for Dr. Becker.

“Before Overall’s talk I thought the signs I saw of fear, anxiety and stress (FAS) were just collateral damage, an unfortunate part of working with animals,” says Dr. Becker. “After her talk, I knew that if we wanted to match

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up with our veterinary oath to prevent or relieve animal pain and suffering, we had to change the way we practiced.

Loving animals and being compassionate were not in themselves looking after the emotional wellbeing of animals. Overall said, ‘Fear is the worst thing a social species can experience, and it causes permanent damage to the brain.’ That very day I thought, if fear is the worst thing, then Fear Free would be the best thing.”

Fear Free, begun that year, would become Dr. Marty’s passion project, one that would dramatically change the way pet professionals interacted with the animals in their care.

In 2016, FearFreePets.com, an online education company for pet health professionals (veterinarians, nurses, trainers, groomers, etc.), was launched, followed by FearFreeHappyHomes.com, a free resource for pet owners looking to optimize their pet’s physical and emotional wellbeing and provide enrichment.

To date, almost 60,00 pet professionals (vets/nurses, trainers, and groomers) have paid and are registered for certification; of those, 37,000 have completed certification, and it’s transforming practices and lives of pets.

“Fear Free is clearly the biggest game changer in our practice in my

career—and I have been practicing for 33 years!” says Dr. Robin Downing, an animal pain expert, founder of the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management, and owner of Windsor Veterinary Clinic and The Downing Center for Animal Pain Management in Windsor, Colorado. “The idea of seeing the veterinary visit through the eyes of the patient is something incredibly novel in the veterinary profession, and yet, once you think it through, it seems pretty self-evident. Once we understand all the ways that we unthinkingly come across to the pet as threatening, like a predator, it opens the door to a completely different interaction.”

Inside a Fear Free-certified veterinary practice, the receptionists avoid eye contact with the pet and start giving treats right way. They provide the pet parent with a warm fleece blanket or towel with species-specific pheromones on it, as well as a pheromoneimpregnated bandanna to put on their dog or pheromone-impregnated cotton ball to place in the cat carrier. Once in the exam room, the pet and pet parent are left in the room to listen to calming music, let the pheromones work their magic, and find where they want to be examined—on the owner’s lap, on the floor on a yoga mat, in the bottom half of

“We give a treat when they step on the scale to be weighed. We give a treat when they walk into the consult room,” says Dr. Bloom. “Owners tell me that I’m spoiling their pet. I tell myself that I’m conditioning them!”

carrier, inside the sink, cradled in the scale, or up on the table.

(Most exams are done with the pet on the floor.) The nurse/ vet avoids prolonged eye contact with the pet and starts giving treats as soon as they enter, with a goal to give about 60 tiny treats in a 15-minute exam.

“We are like Grandma or Grandpa,” laughs Dr. Becker. “We spoil these pets and by doing so, put the treat into treatment!”

Everyone in the practice is wearing pheromones—the dogpheromone Adaptil below the waist and the cat-pheromone Feliway above the waist. They make sure the pet is on a warm, non-skid surface, and use techniques such as considerate approach (avoid eye contact, turn sideways, and crouch down), gentle control (getting positional compliance in a way that doesn’t scare or harm the pet like restraint does) and Gradient Touch (making sure they let the pet smell instruments like stethoscope or otoscope, which have been cleaned and wiped down with a pheromone wipe after each use) then touch the area they’re going to examine—like the chest to hear the heart and lungs or a back leg to vaccinate—a couple of times before they apply the instrument or stick with the needle.

“Basically, it’s like treating tiny horses,” says Dr. Becker.

If a pet’s fear/anxiety/stress levels are too high to begin with or keep rising, they’ll stop the exam/procedures and re-evaluate with three options: retreat and come back another day (“A different day and different way,” says Dr. Becker); give an oral chill pill (like generic Xanax or an FDA-approved product like Sileo) and wait 30 minutes for it to work; or go straight to sedation. “Fear Free practitioners think of sedation as a first option not a last resort and sedate early and often,” says Dr. Becker.

At Dr. Downing’s practice, they employ pre-visit pharmaceuticals to get a jump on the anxiety vet visits can provoke. “One very important addition to what we do is the liberal use of PVPs—pre-visit pharmaceuticals,” says Dr. Downing. “By using PVPs we actually prevent our patients from escalating to the torture of FAS.” “We have for years conditioned dogs to LOVE coming to see us, and they now all head right from the front door to the walk-on scale,” says Dr. Downing. “As for cats, they are in a room with natural light coming in through a large window, and they have the opportunity to wander about in the Feliway-infused room before we actually start their examinations. Both iCalm Cat music and Rescue for disinfection [a powerful yet gentle, odour-neutral and fragrance-free disinfectant] have made a tangible difference in their reaction and response to our handling. Everyone wins in this scenario—most importantly, the pet, but also the pet owner as well as all members of the healthcare team.”

One of the Fear Free principles that has proven particularly transformative for Dr. Downing is examining pets on the floor.

“I see ALL my canine patients who are over about 12 pounds on the floor,” she says. “And the tiny ones aren’t typically on the floor anyway—they are most often on a lap or in their owner’s arms. Seeing dogs where they live—on the floor—has made an enormous difference in their level of cooperation with whatever we need to do, whether it is drawing a blood sample or trimming their toenails.

“Pets are sentient creatures who experience many emotions—FAS, or Fear, Stress, Anxiety, for example—just as humans do,” Dr. Becker explains. “They also have an amygdala 

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Dr. Marty Becker

[a set of neurons in the brain shown to play a key role in the processing of emotions] that stores negative experiences. Unlike humans, they can’t understand why a highly negative procedure is actually a good thing (benefits them) or anticipate or expect it be over even if it’s moments away.”

As a result of traumatic vet visits, “the pet develops maladaptive fear, where the pet doesn’t even have to be at the facility or receiving care/services to have the equivalent of a panic attack, PTSD, or freak out,” says Dr. Becker. “Just seeing the carrier being taken out of the garage or closet, being put in the car, driving down a certain road, or pulling up to the facility, causes an emotional blow up.”

That’s why introducing Fear Free principles begins at home.

“Module 1, Level 1, is all about how the pet owner can get a pet from the living room to the exam room in a calm state,” Dr. Becker says. “Get the carrier out a week before a wellness visit (not the night before or the morning of the visit which often causes a pet to panic), start feeding high value treats in the carrier, start a magic carpet ride of pheromones that will go from carrier to car to clinic, withhold food for 12 hours before the visit (unless medically contraindicated) so that pets come in hungry and respond better to food rewards, preheat or precool the vehicle so that pets go from 72 degrees in the home, to 72 in the vehicle and 72 in the vet clinic, cover the carrier on three sides with a towel or sheet to reduce visual stimuli, play a specific channel of Sirius XM classical or reggae music on the way in, and don’t baby talk the pet. Once at the practice, leave the pet in the car, go check in, and go back out and wait in the vehicle until it’s your turn to be seen.”

“I built my veterinary hospital 8 years ago,” says Dr. Julie Reck, owner of veterinary Medical Center of Fort Mill in Fort Mill, South Carolina. “It had four exam rooms and a large lobby. The large lobby made it easier for people with pets to wait. Fear Free practice has eliminated the waiting room because the goal is to reduce stressful patient/patient interactions. We now have a small lobby and seven exam rooms! We also have calming music piped throughout the hospital as well as built-in benches that prevent pets from cowering under the seating.”

Dr. Jon Bloom, a partner at Willowdale Animal Hospital in Toronto, Canada, is also a Fear Free practitioner. “Currently, approximately 50 percent of pets have signs of FAS when

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visiting the veterinarian. The telltale signs are so common that most have accepted the signs as the new normal. But it doesn’t have to be that way!” he says. “Visiting the vet can be an amazing experience. When pets come to see me, they are wagging their tails and running to greet me. Dogs pull owners into my hospital and into my consult rooms. Cats come out of their cat carriers and wait for me to walk through the exam room door. They can’t wait to be spoiled rotten, all during the same time while I’m examining them and providing the care they need. They are excited to enter and reluctant to leave.”

For Dr. Bloom, the Fear Free principle that was the most transformative was “partnering with clients: “We work together to make that visit to the hospital a great experience. When clients know that they have a willing partner, then the sky becomes the limit to what you can do!”

“We also encourage owners to speak up and be heard,” he says. “When a dog comes in trembling with its tail between its legs…we see this as an opportunity to improve healthcare. When I go to a restaurant, I have certain preferences and I make those preferences known. I tell them if I want to sit outside or inside. I don’t usually like to sit near the door or the bathrooms. I order my meal based on what I feel like eating. Dogs and pet owners have preferences too. If your dog doesn’t like other dogs, ask for a room without windows…If the hospital offers liver treats but your dog only likes cheese-based treats, then ask if you can bring them from home.”

As with other Fear Free-certified vets, at Dr. Bloom’s practice they put the needs of the pet first. “If pets don’t like being up on high exam room tables, then we examine them on the floor,” he says. “If they don’t like liver-flavoured treats, then we offer them chicken-flavoured treats. If they feel more secure being near their owners, then we do their entire exam, vaccine, blood sample collection, etc. beside their owners.”

“Fear Free visits simply have a different approach, a different feel, a different vibe, and a different experience for everyone involved,” he says. “You know it when you see it. It’s healthcare at a higher level because it takes into account not just the pet’s physical well-being, but also takes into account the pet’s emotional well-being. It’s healthcare the way you thought it ought to be.” 

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Gift Guide Pet portraits with a culinary twist! JJ Galloway's oil paintings swing between realistic and whimsical. Pets have food favorites just like we do. Adding a culinary crown makes each portrait completely unique! jjgalloway.com Warm up this winter season with the Hot Cocoa Burrow from ZippyPaws! Your dog will love burying their nose into this mug to dig out the fluffy marshmallows! zippypaws.com

Woof Out West is bringing twinning to a whole new level this holiday season!

Match with your pup in some adorable holiday themed pjs. Cozy, comfy, and oh so cute! woofoutwest.com The Buster ActivityMat from KRUUSE is the ideal behaviour and mental enrichment toy for puppy and dog training. Challenge your dog by varying the difficulty of each task for continuous fun! kruuse247.com

Molly: The True Story of the Amazing Dog Who Rescues Cats by Colin Butcher tells the reallife heartwarming story of a wayward rescue dog turned pet detective. celadonbooks.com Zoo Snoods’ hand-knit dog snoods are cute, comfy, and functional! Keep your pup's neck and ears warm and protected from dirt, moisture, and cold while out for a walk! zoosnoods.com

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Gift Guide

Dogs love shoe strings & nose work!

You can hide treats inside the little pockets, inside the cup and in between the noodles that will keep them engaged for hours of fun. thebasicconcept.com

Spread holiday cheer with beautifully handcrafted accessories by ZoZo’s Paw. From cozy fray bandanas, to modern collars and bow ties, it’s the perfect gift that also helps shelter pets in need! zozospaw.com

A pet carrier made to last—The SturdiBag Large.

SturdiProducts' best-seller and a great gift for small dog owners. This pet carrier will live up to its reputation! sturdiproducts.com Keep your pet safe and stylish with Frenchiestore’s no pull, no choke, patent pending Health Harness! Each harness is reversible featuring 2 unique prints. Sizes range from XS – XXL to fit many breeds. frenchiestore.com

The MiAmore Walk set in Dark Cheddar is handcrafted with premium vegan Saffiano leather and luxe solid brass hardware. Also available in black, grey and peach!

Made with love in NYC. miamorepets.com

This season treat your pup with Charlee Bear’s Bearnola Bites! Crafted with wholesome ingredients—like real oats, honey and vanilla—each crunchy granola cluster is bursting with aroma and taste. USA made! charleebear.com

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Gift Guide

The perfect gift for any dog lover! These high-quality pillows from Nayo the Corgi are the perfect addition to any dog owners’ home. Available in a selection of breeds to choose from. nayothecorgi.com

Deck your doggies with adorable 100% cotton dog bandanas from The Darling Paw! They’re perfect for Christmas photos and parties this holiday season. Available in small and medium/large to fit every pup! thedarlingpaw.etsy.com

In our hearts, our pets are our family. In our legal system, they are property. Saving Ferris is a story that makes us consider what, exactly, pets mean to us. arkennedyauthor.com

The EPEC Disc Launcher is the cool new dog toy of 2019.

Launch a dog safe disc 30-60 yards with hands-free loading.

Made in the USA. epecdisc.com

PawPad is designed for everyone who loves to sleep with their pets but dislikes the mess. Waterproof, absorbent, lightweight, machine washable, and dryer safe. Available in 3 colours and 2 sizes. pawpad.company

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Give your dog the gift of endless fun with the Fetch Machine from GoDogGo! This automatic ball launcher is perfect for ball-crazy dogs.

Use code MD25 for $25 off. godoggoinc.com

The Alpine Blanket from Chilly Dogs Inc. has waterproof & windproof nylon on one side and cozy microfleece on the other. It’s perfect for outdoor activities or curling up with your pup! chillydogs.ca

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Gift Guide “Dog medicine for the soul.” These 38 poems by Jane Marla Robbins are intimate, funny, moving, insightful and inspiring.

The perfect gift for every dog lover. Available at amazon.com

This holiday season, treat your pup to a great night’s sleep with P.L.A.Y.’s wide selection of stylish, eco-friendly and washable lounge beds. Use code MDM20 for 20% off on petPLAY.com.

Bubs’ & Betty’s quality bandanas are sure to keep your pup stylin’ all year round. From cute designs to personalized classics, your pup is sure to be the best dressed wiggle butt in town! bubsandbettys.com

Abby Labby Lanterns builds beautiful, custom lanterns for every dog breed. They pride themselves on quality craftsmanship and service, and are proudly made in the USA. abbylabbylanterns.com

Give the gift of delicious, healthy treats with these Superfood Nuggets from Boo Boo’s Best! They’re loaded with ingredients like wild-caught salmon, apples, sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, blueberries, turmeric, and ginger. booboosbest.com

Keep your pup warm and stylish this winter with pajamas from Big Dog’s Closet! These pj’s are carefully crafted in Arizona, USA and made specifically to fit big dogs. bigdogscloset.com

Show your dog you heart them with this collar from Hot Dogs All Dressed! Available in leather or vegan, waterproof hydro material, these collars are customizable to suit every dog’s style! hotdogsalldressed.com

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Deep Breath

Inhaled Medication Made Easy

Listen to Your (Dog's) Gut New microbiome testing kit provides gut health insight Your dog’s gut health is crucial to their overall wellbeing.

A healthy microbiome (the good bacteria in the gut) keeps “bad” bacteria in check—too much bad bacteria can lead to syndromes like IBS—and influences digestion, energy levels, disease development, and even emotions. Researchers believe the gut may even “talk” to the brain. Studies show that the balance of bacteria in the gut microbiome may affect emotions and the way the brain processes sensory information. Scientists suspect that negative changes in the bacteria balance may play a role in depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. In short, gut health affects the whole body.

For dogs with respiratory challenges like chronic bronchitis, allergic rhinitis, or a collapsed trachea, making the most out of life is dependent on their medication. While oral steroids or injections are an option for treating your dog, inhaled medications work quickly by delivering treatment directly to the lungs. This allows for lower dosages and less side effects—but can be difficult to administer. AeroDawg makes administering inhaled medication easy with their Canine Aerosol Chamber. Simply place the small mask over your dog’s mouth with the inhaler containing medication attached to the other side, press down on inhaler and the medicine will be instantly delivered to your dog so they can get on with living their best canine life (Playing! Naps! Treats!) without breathing difficulties or drowsiness. ($62, tmimd.com/aerodawg)

Thus, investigating your dog’s gut health can provide important insight on your dog’s immune system function, weight management, and even mood and behaviour. Testing your dog’s microbiome and gut health is now super easy with NomNomNow’s Insights Microbiome Kit. Simply collect and mail a stool sample from your dog and NomNomNow’s scientists will evaluate the types of bacteria that reside in the gut, then send a report describing the overall structure and how that compares to other dogs. If your dog is lacking any good bacterium, they’ll suggest diet adjustments you can implement to keep your dog’s gut happy and healthy! ($59, nomnomnow.com)

Special Delivery!

This monthly subscription box is full of vet-curated goodies for your pup!

The Modern Dog team is super excited when our subscription box from VetPet Box arrives each month! Filled with awesome treats, toys, and health and grooming products, this vetcurated box is a fun way to discover new, vet-approved products your pup will love! (From $35, vetpetbox.com)

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BODY & SOUL

Healthy PUP $30

Solutions for everything from difficult-to-clip nails to smelly ears and sore joints.

$12

CLEAN EARS

BREATHE EASY

Zymox Ear Solution effectively and non-invasively removes residue, fights infections, and maintains ear health.

Only one dose a day is needed and it’s antibiotic free! zymox.com

VetRx Respiratory Aid from Goodwinol quickly reduces congestion, allergy symptoms, and issues caused by respiratory ailments so your dog can breathe easy again. goodwinol.com

$17

$15

BRIGHT EYES

SHINY COAT

Easily clean eyes, reduce irritation or remove debris and other irritants with Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Wash.

Also great for cleaning up tear stains! vetericyn.com

Keep your dog’s coat clean, shiny, and smelling amazing with the PawPaya Shampoo from Jax n Daisy! Simply lather up and rinse away stress, dirt, and dander! jaxndaisy.com

$27 $45

SORE JOINT HELPER

SHORT NAIL FIX

Purica’s delicious liver-flavoured Pet Recovery Extra Strength Chewables contain hyaluronic acid plus a proprietary bioflavonoid complex to strengthen bones, muscles, and connective tissues and reduce pain and inflammation. purica.com

Forget clipping! Help your dog’s traction (important for seniors!) and maintain proper foot function by easily and comfortably grinding your pup’s nails with the ConairPRO Dog Professional Nail Grinder. Game changer. chewy.com

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BODY & SOUL

Natural Joint Supplements for Dogs Dog lovers are ditching the NSAIDs and treating their dogs’ joint pain with powerhouse natural supplements—and seeing amazing results By Tracey Tong

L

ydia Hamm had never been able to keep up with her German Shepherd.

For years, Lydia struggled to keep up with Muffin on the long hikes that pair would take.

In 2018, over the period of several weeks, the Las Vegas resident noticed that six-year-old Muffin was slowing down, and appeared to have some stiffness in her left hip. Soon, she started lagging behind on walks, which Lydia said was out of character for her usually energetic pup. When Muffin fell trying to get onto her spot on the couch, Lydia knew she needed help.

Approximately 25 percent of dogs are diagnosed with arthritis in their life time, and as many as 60 percent of dogs have radiographic evidence of it, says Dr, Becky Lundgren.

Dr. Kristopher Chandroo, who runs the full-service mobile veterinary clinic The 100x Vet in Ottawa, Ontario, certainly sees a lot of joint disease in his practice.

While joint disease itself doesn’t cause death, “it often affects their quality of life,” he says. “They can live just as long except they suffer in silence. Debilitating joint issues sometimes results in humane euthanasia.”

“There are some diseases in pets that fall into the ‘I see it every day’ category,” he says. “Joint disease is one of those.

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It’s a part of life for many people and pets.”

Canine joint problems fall into two major categories: developmental—which include hip and elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, and hypertrophic osteodystrophy that tends to affect certain breeds and dogs—and degenerative, which happens because a ligament is degenerating over time, causing instability and secondary osteoarthritis.

One common misconception about joint problems is that only middle-aged and older dogs are affected by osteoarthritis.

“We know it starts much earlier in their lives,” says Dr. Chandroo. “It starts from early development—elbow, hip, and knee issues can start during or just past puppyhood…. Much of it can start with developmental problems—the genetics and the way the joints and cartilage develop in youth.”

A second misconception is that mostly larger dogs are affected by joint issues, because they bear more weight.

Although increased size and weight can exacerbate joint problems, this doesn’t mean that smaller dogs will be unaffected. “If they have fur and four paws, they can be affected by osteoarthritis or joint disease,” says Dr. Chandroo.

“Any breed or size of dog can show joint problems.”

Those who opt for surgery for their pets will find minimally invasive procedures, such as the arthroscopic repairs and treatments and biological treatments, which include different types of injections or replacements of tissues. For both surgical and non-surgical cases, there are non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) like Deramaxx, Metacam, Previcox and Rimadyl, but while they reduce pain, they may also cause gastrointestinal issues, problems with blood vessel constriction, blood clotting, and kidney function, and in rare cases, death. They may also make joint issues worse by breaking down cartilage.

Lydia had Muffin on the NSAID carprofen for several weeks but noticed that Muffin had lost her appetite while on the drug, which was a cause for concern, as her dog was usually a hearty eater. That’s when she decided to try a supplement instead.

Owners like Lydia looking for more natural therapies for their pets will find a slew of options. There are supplements, which Dr. Chandroo recommends, as well as physical therapy 

BODY & SOUL

and rehabilitation programs that include ultrasound and hydrotherapy for pets. While many higher-quality commercial and vet-recommended pet foods now contain fish oils and glucosamine/chondroitin, supplements are also available so that pet owners can control the amount to give to their dogs.

“Supplements can be extremely helpful for arthritis for a variety of reasons,” agrees Dr. Katherine Kramer, medical director at the VCA-Canada Vancouver Animal Wellness Hospital and a member of the Hemp Expert Working Group of the National Animal Supplement Council. “There is good evidence now to support the use of glucosamine and Cartrophen/Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan, or PSGAG, an injectable drug used to alleviate the lameness, pain, and lowered range of motion caused by arthritis) to help support healthy cartilage to delay joint deterioration,” she says. “Several supplements, such as omega-3 essential fatty acids, turmeric, CBD products, boswellia, green-lipped mussels, and other herbs can have profound anti-inflammatory effects.”

Supplements can often help delay the need to use arthritis medication or reduce the amount needed, says Dr. Kramer.

Although these natural alternatives can be readily found at health food stores, she warns pet owners to exercise care when choosing a supplement. “Unfortunately, there are tons of products being marketed to pet owners that have little scientific backing or quality control. Although generally safe, there are some supplements that can have serious side effects.

Always consult your veterinarian before trying a supplement on your dog. Look for the National Animal Supplement Council seal as well.”

When used properly, supplements can make all the difference. With only three legs, Babette, a Flat-Coat Retriever/ Border Collie mix, relies on supplements to keep her joints as healthy as possible, says owner Tania Calverley of Ottawa.

Born with a peg leg for her hind left, Babette underwent a full amputation at four months of age. “Her back leg acts as a rudder and her hips have shifted so that the back leg is now a true tripod and sits in the centre of her stance and that puts a lot of pressure on those joints and ligaments,” says Tania, who administers a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin to

Babette. Since starting the supplement, “I can confidently say that she is stronger and more confident in her body,” Tania adds. “Using the supplements makes us feel like we're at least taking an extra step to help her be as healthy as possible.”

When her 13-year-old Poodle-Shih Tzu mix, Mr. Muggs, was diagnosed with a luxating patella [a condition common in small and miniature breeds in which the kneecap dislocates] four years ago, Susan Petrick’s vet recommended a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin for ongoing treatment of his pain.

“We’ve had no recurrences since giving it to him regularly,” says the Kingston, Ontario resident. “A couple of years ago, we left Muggs with a pet sitter who I think forgot to give him his supplement regularly. When we came home, I could tell he hadn’t had his medication regularly. He limped. As soon as we restarted him on it, we could see that he was better. The limp went away.”

Depending on the patient, vets may recommend a multi-pronged treatment that includes exercise and rehab.

Together, these treatments can slow down the progression of osteoarthritis or reduce joint pain.

Ottawa resident Judith Cane has one such plan for her 12-yearold Golden Retriever, Abby, who suffers from lameness in one of her legs. After ruling out surgery because of her age, she is on glucosamine and is undergoing laser treatments. “As soon as we see some improvement, we’ll add exercises,” she says.

Watching your dog’s weight will keep the pressure off his joints, and exercise will keep the muscles surrounding the joints strong, says Dr. Chandroo. He recommends speaking with your dog’s vet about a plan for physical activity. “Exercise in and of itself helps reduce pain associated with joint disease,” he says. “They’ve got to keep moving, and often, they’ve got to lose some weight.”

The end result, he says, is worth it. “It is not uncommon for people to tell me their pets seem brighter and younger once their joint issue has been addressed,” Dr. Chandroo says.

Lydia, for one, has noticed that Muffin seems like “a whole new dog.” Four months into trying a regimen of glucosamine has helped immensely. “Now when we go hiking, I’m the one at the back of the pack again,” Lydia jokes. “All is as it should be.” 

Bones and Bone Broth Raw bones (never cooked—cooked bones can splinter) of beef, pork, lamb, chicken and turkey provide your dog with the calcium and phosphorus he needs to stay healthy. There are two kinds of raw bones: edible bones, which don’t contain marrow, and recreational bones, which are big femur or hip bones filled with marrow. The edible bones are the ones you want—they provide calcium, phosphorus and trace minerals to your dog. Beware of bones that are too small, which can become choking hazards, and always supervise a dog with a bone. If your dog isn’t a chewer, try bone broth, which can relieve joint pain and arthritis, keep your dog’s skin, coat and bones healthy, detoxify the liver and support digestive health.

Find Modern Dog’s bone broth recipe at moderndogmagazine.com/bone-broth.

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Natural Supplements That Can Help With Your Dog’s Joint Pain

1. Astaxanthin

A joint supplement for dogs, astaxanthin (red algae) is an antioxidant that has been shown to improve heart health and boost the immune system, as well as relieving pain and inflammation by blocking chemicals that create pain.

Astaxanthin is present in most red-coloured aquatic organisms.

It is produced naturally in microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis and the yeast Phaffia, as well as Pacific krill, Antarctic krill, and Arctic shrimp. Shrimp shells are a good source of astaxanthin for dogs—the astaxanthin is almost exclusively concentrated in the shells, with only low amounts in the flesh itself. It’s important to note that astaxanthin content varies from species to species and from individual to individual.

2. Boswellia

Also called Indian frankincense, Boswellia is an herbal extract taken from the bark of the Boswellia serrata tree.

As Boswellic acids have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, boswellia is used in Asian and African folk medicine. It's believed to treat chronic inflammatory illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis and may even help prevent cartilage loss.

The main structural protein found in skin, joints, tendons, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, collagen makes up most of the protein in your dog’s body. Collagen production slows in all animals as they age, which makes dogs more susceptible to joint and bone injuries, poor coat condition, and weakened nails and teeth. Fortunately, collagen powder is easily added to dog food (follow the directions on the bottle), which stimulates the natural production of collagen in a dog’s body. Benefits of collagen include reducing protein deficiency, improving mobility, relieving joint and hip pain, repairing cartilage breakdown, and minimizing swelling.

6. Crominex 3+

A natural blend of three joint supportive ingredients, Crominex 3+ reduces arthritis and joint pain, supports the circulatory system, boosts energy, and helps dogs with weight control. This powerhouse supplement combines chromium, which reduces calcium loss from the bones, the super fruit phyllanthus emblica, and anti-inflammatory Shilajit, and can be beneficial to diabetic, overweight, and senior dogs. Dosage instructions are on the packaging.

7. Glucosamine

3. CBD Oil

Originating from the cannabis plant, CBD oil has antiinflammatory properties. When administered orally or added to your dog’s food, it can decrease inflammation, reduce pain (including back and joint pain), slow premature aging caused by oxidative stress, and even fight cancer and control seizures, anxiety, and nausea. It can also improve your dog’s stomach issues. The oil, now legal in the U.S. and Canada, is readily available—see page 34.

4. Chondroitin

Often used in conjunction with the supplement glucosamine, chondroitin is found in animal cartilage and has numerous benefits, including helping with osteoarthritis and keeping cartilage healthy and joints mobile. Looking for a natural source?

Chondroitin is found in meat gristle and beef cartilage, but supplements have higher doses than meat sources. Another source of chondroitin are green-lipped mussels, which also have anti-inflammatory properties when added to a dog’s food.

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Often used in conjunction with chondroitin, glucosamine is a building block of cartilage and naturally occurs in the body.

Over time, aging bodies produce less of it, causing joint pain.

Glucosamine supplements act as a lubricant for joints and repair damaged cartilage.

8. Turmeric

You may recognize this bright orange-yellow spice from your pantry. Studies have found that turmeric can decrease inflammation and relieve pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis. This powerful, natural anti-inflammatory also shows promise in treating cancer, IBS, and more. The wonder compound at work here is curcumin; its amazing benefits have caused some to christen it “cure-cumin.” To give turmeric to your dog, simply add it to his food. Give 1/8 to 1/4 tsp per day per 10 pounds of your dog’s body weight. Choose organic turmeric or a turmeric supplement for higher curcumin content.

For the latter, follow the dosage instructions listed on the label and adjust for your dog’s weight.

BODY & SOUL

VETERINARY DETECTIVE: What’s Wrong With This Dog?

By Dr. Sarah Myers

Q:

A 16-year-old Dachshund is slowly becoming more reluctant to eat, is getting up to drink water in the middle of the night, and occasionally vomiting at night.

There is a decrease in energy with an outright refusal to eat anything. When she is tempted into eating, she vomits immediately afterwards. At the vet, a blood test shows elevated liver enzymes and an ultrasound is recommended.

What’s wrong with this dog?

A:

Many of the liver and gallbladder issues that can affect people can also affect our canine companions.

Dogs that have either liver disease or gallbladder disease will show similar signs of illness. The dog may suddenly stop eating, start vomiting, and be very low in energy. If the illness progresses,

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their gums and the whites of their eyes can become yellowish in colour. This is called jaundice and indicates that the condition is very, very serious.

If your dog is showing any of these signs, your veterinarian will recommend blood tests to assess your dog’s overall health.

Blood tests give a lot of information, such as whether infection is present, whether the kidneys or liver could be the cause of your dog’s illness, or if there is a suspicion of an endocrine disorder such as diabetes or a thyroid problem.

In the case of liver disease, blood tests can only indicate that there is an abnormality with the liver. They cannot tell your vet exactly what is wrong with it. Conditions such as infection, inflammation, cancer, scarring, and gallbladder problems can look the same when interpreting blood results. 

When should you take this dog to the vet?

If he or she shows any of these signs: ➜➜ Loss of appetite ➜➜ Vomiting ➜➜ Low energy ➜➜ Yellow gums and eyes— This is an emergency!

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BODY & SOUL

For this reason, if your dog is showing signs of illness and the bloodwork indicates there is an abnormality with the liver, an ultrasound is commonly recommended. An ultrasound allows a radiologist, a veterinarian who has done several years of extra training in diagnostic imaging, to use an imaging probe to more thoroughly examine the liver. An ultrasound allows them to assess the different lobes of the liver, the size and texture of the liver, and to check whether there is an abnormality with the gallbladder.

One rare but serious condition that can affect the gallbladder is called a gallbladder mucocele. This was the case with the 16-year-old Dachshund. For unknown reasons, the bile can become very thick and sludgy, and it builds up within the gallbladder instead of passing into the small intestine to aid in digestion. This can be a potentially life-threatening condition because there is the potential that the gallbladder could rupture. A ruptured gallbladder is extremely painful and can quickly lead to serious infection in the abdomen. If your vet determines there is a potential for rupture, emergency surgery is usually necessary. A dog can live a normal life without a gallbladder—the liver will continue to produce bile which will then empty into a common bile duct before flowing into the small intestine instead of being stored in the gallbladder. In very mild cases, a long-term medication called ursodiol may be prescribed instead of surgery. This medication helps to move bile through the liver and gallbladder more normally.

If a complete blockage is suspected, ursodiol should not be prescribed.

Other even less common gallbladder issues seen in dogs are cholecystitis, an inflammation of the gallbladder and biliary tract, and gallstones, which can obstruct the bile ducts.

Tumors of the bile duct or intestine can block the bile ducts.

Treatment

1 Gallbladder Mucocele:

Surgical removal of the gallbladder is usually recommended for young or middle-aged dogs who are otherwise healthy. For older dogs with no symptoms and no obstruction, your veterinarian may choose to wait and monitor the dog via ultrasound and physical exam.

2 Cholecystitis:

Your vet may prescribe antibiotics, or antibiotics and steroids, which can reduce the inflammation caused by cholecystitis.

3 Gallstones: stones/sludgy gallbladder with 4 Gallbladder no symptoms:

Gallstones are very painful and may need to be removed surgically.

Sometimes a gallbladder stone or the beginning of a buildup of sludgy material is discovered during an ultrasound undertaken for another reason. If the liver enzymes are normal and the dog isn’t experiencing any related symptoms, the vet will usually take a wait-and-see approach. 

Gallbladder mucoceles can happen in any dog, but are most common in these breeds:

Cocker Spaniel

Shetland Sheepdog

Miniature Schnauzer

Border Terrier

The liver is a filter organ that helps to remove toxins and waste products from the body. The gall bladder is connected to the liver. This non-essential organ is a small sac connected to the liver lobes via the bile duct and is responsible for storing the bile that is produced in the liver. Bile is a yellow-greenish liquid that plays a role in removing toxins from the body. When your dog eats a meal, bile is released into the small intestines to help digest the food.

Green or yellow vomit may indicate that bile is being brought up, though this is not always indicative of a serious condition.

Any condition that causes vomiting on an empty stomach can result in yellow or green vomit. It is always worth following up with your veterinarian to determine the cause of your dog’s vomiting.

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Where nature leads, we follow. Buck Bone Organics hand crafts eco-friendly, Premium Wild Elk and Deer antler treats that your dog will love. Antler is rich in protein, calcium, and magnesium, perfect for a tasty and healthy dog chew, dog biscuit, and food topper. buckboneorganics.com

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Sammy’s Shiny Coat from Stengel Oils contains Omega3s, the good fats responsible for the basic cellular health of all body tissues in humans and their furry friends. This 100% virgin, cold-pressed flax oil contains no fillers and helps to improve the shine of your dog’s coat as well as improve skin conditions. StengelOils.com

Fitpet Ahead is an at-home urinalysis kit that helps you detect warning signs of the most commonly found health issues in dogs and cats. With the Fitpet app and Ahead, understand your pets’ current health status in real-time through a holistic urinalysis of over 10 parameters. fitpetcorp.com

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LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE

P H OTO C H R I S T I N A CO O K S O N , WAG YO U R TA I L P H OTO G R A P H Y

love your job!

There are many people who love animals but aren’t sure how to turn their passion into a career. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of job options for dog lovers.

Check out these top 4 career choices for dog lovers to see if one of these careers is for you and find out what you need to do to get started.

by Jane Mundy

Dog Trainer A professional dog trainer performs an important service for both dog and human. From helping you teach your pooch basic manners and addressing problem behaviours to advanced training for K9 units, this job requires a lot of skill. There are specialized courses for service dog or K9 unit training, so you’ll need to adapt your skills accordingly.

David Shade, age 32, At Attention Dog Training I have a long background with the military and suffered from PTSD but turns out this was my path to becoming a dog trainer.

I always wanted a dog but never had the opportunity until I got Lulu, my Boxer. Within just a few months she taught me to love and feel again rather than be emotionally numb. She gave my life a purpose.

Next up I spent 18 months at Catch Trainers Academy in New Jersey. I simultaneously worked with Otis, a dog I adopted from the SPCA, read about 30 books about training dogs, and started my own business—At Attention Dog Training—about four years ago. My website was my calling card and I used social media, mainly Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, to try and engage people. And I used Thumbtack, an online site where you can hire specialists to do a job. I bid on jobs, work slowly trickled in, and referrals were like a snowball affect. I started networking: I took business cards to pet stores, vet clinics, dog walkers, and sitters.

I have now trained close to 1,500 dogs and have four employees, including my wife. About 30 - 40 dogs come through our door weekly for training. We also offer in-home training and classes, including one-on-one with your puppy. 

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Professional dog trainer David Shade.

The Rundown: Helpful Traits: Be calm and extremely patient. You need to focus on specific behaviours and issues so it helps to have a history of living with dogs –you need a lot of experience.

Pros: I do what I love and I can pay the bills. I have a better understanding of dogs and people, and I never have to drag myself out of bed to go to work.

Cons: Like the cobbler’s son who doesn’t have shoes, my dogs are the last to get attention at the end of the day. I don’t have time to work with them as much as I want—they get the leftovers.

Running my own company can be rather stressful as it’s up to me to get clients. And passion fatigue is real, not just because I had PTSD. You see so many problems and neglect in the dog world that can make you numb and apathetic. But I take a few days off to center and come back to my purpose: keep dogs happy in happy homes.

Estimated Salary: I pay my dog trainers $40K a year if they work 40 hours a week. Expect less if you working at a corporate training store. You get what you pay for.

where to focus. Massage can also help when there has been damage to some part of the nervous system such as a herniated disc or spinal cord damage that results in neuropathy.

Massage also improves flexibility and relieves tension, and so it can also help with arthritis and age-related issues. While a veterinarian can help arthritis symptoms with pain management, gentle massage triggers blood flow and rids toxins in a certain area—you want to keep a dog supple as possible.

Like people, not all dogs like hands on them. If they have been in abusive situations or in extreme pain they may be fearful, but most dogs relax and enjoy. Someone may tell me their dog was fine last night but cannot get up today.

I always advise them to call their vet first. A vet always refers me for a reason—not for Fluffy’s birthday.

Small Animal Massage Specialist What could be more rewarding than making dogs feel better by improving an animal’s overall wellbeing with your touch? For the past 18 years, Nicola Way has provided therapeutic massage and rehabilitation for dogs experiencing muscular degeneration and neurological issues.

Nicola Way, age 50, Vancouver Animal Massage First and foremost, my services are not a substitute for veterinary care. Vets refer dogs to me for muscular problems such as strains, sprains or trauma that have resulted in an injury. Referrals allow me to know exactly

Animal massage in the U.K. is common, and it was always my career choice. I moved to Canada from the U.K. in 1996 and there wasn’t anywhere offering courses so I went back to England and studied. I also took an 18-month course in cranial-sacral anatomy and internal workings in Oregon, a course taken by vets so the bar is high. And I took a one-year course with the Northwest School of Animal Massage in Washington State, became certified and advertised in the local newspaper.

Animal Massage My phone rang immediately. I also offered Specialist Nicola Way my services at vet clinics, and the majority of my clients are vet-referred. 

The Rundown: Helpful Traits: Be calm and patient. Sometimes I treat puppies with growing pains: they can be wiggly with the attention span of a flea. I have to read animal body language so there is no room for my stress. Practice yoga.

Pros: It’s very rewarding and fulfilling to see improvement in function or at the very least maintain function. Many dogs have a temporary injury so you can see results over a few sessions. Plus, by being my own boss, I am in control of my time.

Cons: It does take a toll on your body with so much bending and leaning needed to treat animals on the floor, especially as you get older. When I started in my early 30s, being self-employed was stressful. Fortunately, I live in a very pet-friendly city – a lot depends on where you live. Courses are expensive and time-consuming, and you must understand anatomy.

Estimated Salary: $30K to 60K full time.

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The Rundown: Helpful Traits: Selfconfidence, patience, and you have to be in good physical condition. This job is not for the faint-hearted.

Dog Behaviourist/Companion Animal Behaviour Counselor If your pooch is behaving badly, say, destroying your home, who are you gonna call? A dog behaviourist! These canine psychologists and therapists can help with issues such as separation anxiety and aggression. A board-certified behaviourist has studied applied canine behaviour and must meet the requirements of either an independent certifying board or an approved veterinary school.

Behaviorists are experts in behaviour modification and can teach you how to understand and work with your pup. With additional formal education, they can be certified as an Applied Animal Behaviourist. A skilled behaviourist can help transform your monster mutt into a perfect pooch.

Shari Forst, age 53, Co-owner, Canine Case Squad I got started in my early 20s. I took my puppy to obedience school, loved it, and started my apprenticeship there. Eight hours a day for over a year I cleaned kennels, fed, and cared for about ten dogs at any given time. And I did obedience training, either at the school or at a client’s home. At the time, my husband and I had two German Shepherds who were well-trained since puppyhood but they started fighting in the house. Neither of us understood animal psychology so we tried to work with a behaviourist in Florida but it was far away; Prozac and muzzling were recommended and we didn’t want that. Instead we wanted a behaviour modification program and found a man who was a certified dog trainer and had a PhD in animal behaviour. He urged us to take some canine psychology classes—which took three intense years.

Now I am a Board Certified Companion Animal Behavior Counselor, and certified with the American Foundation for Animal Rescue in the area of Dog Training and Instructor Skills. I also teach classes in applied canine behaviour on staff as a behaviourist for the local Humane Society and I’ve testified as an expert witness.

After getting certified in 2007, I called all the veterinarians in Orange County asking for a meeting but most of them weren’t interested. I didn’t take ‘no’ for an answer.

With my (now) well-behaved dogs I talked to staff at vet clinics and one vet agreed to talk after I explained the difference between a dog trainer and behaviourist. I got a few referrals and word spread. We also get referrals from trainers who can’t deal with aggression. Today we have hundreds of clients including some from other states and even from Canada. 

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Pros: It’s most rewarding to turn an aggressive dog around and get positive results with client compliance. We have our own business and two wonderful ladies also work here.

Cons: Not having client compliance. For instance, we recently had a tough anxiety case. This dog would hurt herself in a kennel or flip out and destroy the house. She stayed with us for two weeks; we worked very hard to build her confidence and help her learn to relax. We gave the client written instructions and video clips but when she came back for a follow-up nothing had been done. The dog was cowering in the corner. We get you 85 percent of the way there but you have to implement the 15 percent at home. Thankfully most clients comply, knowing their dog’s life depends on it.

I’ve had a few nasty bites. It’s like being a boxer—you get punched a few times but it doesn’t faze you anymore.

Estimated Salary: A lot depends on the area. We pay one woman who works with us in Tennessee $2,800 over a two-week period.

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Pet Shop Owner The pet shop business is a great way to share your animal passion with like minds. Over time, your entrepreneurial spirit and product knowledge will establish relationships with customers concerned about the welfare of their pets.

Alexis Murphy, age 38, Co-owner, Long Live Cats and Dogs We began this business to help pets, educate consumers, and allow people to make informed decisions when it comes to their pet’s health and longevity.

Long Live Cats and Dogs got started eight years ago. I had to take the bus in the pouring rain to buy cat litter so my friend (and now partner) Kristy Clark offered to drive me—there wasn’t a pet store nearby. We decided right then and there to open a store and four months later we did just that. We found a location and Googled ‘how to open a pet food store.’ It was exciting and completely different from our regular jobs.

Kristy is a social worker and I’m a radiologist technician. We kept our jobs because it took the store four years to make money and pay ourselves. We considered the store more like a hobby but never as a wrong choice. We moved to a bigger location with a larger inventory (against our accountant’s advice) and started to turn a profit. And we started another business: Neuterhead, a non-profit that raises money for rescue groups, and we are proud of raising a lot of money. We put on a rock and roll show, sell merchandise, and distribute the money to dog and cat rescue groups.

We both had lots of pets growing up. Kristy has two dogs and several cats, so owning a pet food and supply shop was a natural progression. I still work part time at the hospital; we have two managers running the store and we all make a comfy living. 

The Rundown: Helpful Traits: Outgoing, a “people person”, resilient, hard-working, positive attitude, and patient. Trust yourself and your partner. Bonus: Have an encyclopedic knowledge of animals and a good knowledge of animal nutrition.

Pros: Creating something on your own, building your own niche, is so rewarding. We have the freedom to choose products and supplies and can offer more personalized service than big-box stores. You become part of the community and meet so many interesting people – and their pets.

Cons: Financially, it’s risky and stressful—that is why we kept our jobs. We invested all of our savings—about $30K, but we eventually made it back. Your social circle shrinks because the store is time-consuming and it can be exhausting. Some items don’t sell so you have to be forgiving with yourself, take the losses with a grain of salt, move forward and don’t dwell on the past.

Estimated Salary: After four years the store nets (take home) about 70K per year.

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craft

PET PROJECT

D.I.Y.

How to

THROW A PUPPY PARTY

TOO CU TE !

By Serena Faber-Nelson of prettyfluffy.com

Define your invite list. Want to connect with other dog lovers in your local area? Want a breed specific get together? Want to meet your Insta friends in real life? Use social media to arrange and invite like-minded dog lovers and you’ve got yourself a meetup! You never know, it might be the start of a lifelong friendship

Smash it! How to do a Doggie Cake Smash Photographed by Lauren Dobish Photography The cutest cake smashes of all time? Doggo ones. A fun, fairly easy way to celebrate a milestone birthday, dog cake smashes combine a sweet treat with the most adorable photo opportunity. Here’s how to pull off an all-time pupper cake smash you and your dog will love.

Choose Your Cake

Personalized bandanas, party hats or bows can dress up your dog, while flower displays, balloons or garlands can enhance the backdrop.

Capture the ‘Cake Smash’ Moment If they’re really good (or haven’t worked out the cake is for them!), give them a little frosting on their snout and let them lick it off—this makes for adorable photos. Once you give the ok to dig in, make sure you’re set up and ready to take a lot of pictures in a row—that cake will disappear fast! Above all, keep it fun (for you and your pupper) and never forget—often the best photos happen when things go wrong!

Great Pupper Party Ideas Valentine’s Day Party—no better time to show the real loves of your life what they mean to you.

Super Bowl Party—don’t forget to watch the Puppy Bowl first!

Make sure you opt for a dog-friendly cake, as human cakes are not good for dogs. Either enlist the help of your local dog bakery or make your own. Keep in mind the size of your dog to ensure the cake is an ideal size for her to eat. Include dogfriendly frosting (see recipe below) on your cake as it makes for a better ‘smash’ and lots of licking shots.

Easter Egg Hunt—replace chocolate eggs with

Choose Your Location

exchange prior so every dog gets a gift on the day.

Off leash dog parks are not an ideal location for cake smashes as, frankly, every dog there is going to want to eat that cake.

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dog friendly snacks.

Halloween Fancy Dress—have prizes for the best-dressed person and pooch pair!

Holiday Party—Organize a ‘Secret Santa’ gift

C A K E BY L A L LY P U P S (FAC E B O O K .COM/L A L LY P U P S); P H OTO G R A P H E D BY L AU R E N D O B I S H P H OTO G R AO H Y.COM

The Guest List

Style Your Shot

H O W TO T H RO W A P U P P Y PA R T Y P H OTO S T Y L I N G A N D P H OTO G R A P H Y BY S E R E N A FA B E R- N E L S O N (P R E T T Y F L U F F Y.COM)

H

ave a special birthday coming up? Want to celebrate a special holiday with your pooch by your side?

Need an excuse to drink champagne before midday?

Time to throw a puppy party! The great thing about a dog lover’s meet up is you get to meet likeminded people and your pup gets to play with other doggos to their heart’s content. These days, we’re all meeting so many dog friendly people through Instagram and Facebook that it makes sense to take that friendship off screen. But how to do it? It’s never been easier to get your own party started.

DIY Dog Birthday Cake Makes: 2-3 mini cake layers to form one cake

Cake: »»

1 ¾ cups almond flour

»»

2 Tbsp honey

»»

3 eggs

»»

5 small fresh strawberries (diced; hulls removed)

»»

2 Tbsp coconut oil

Icing: »»

½ cup plain organic yogurt

»»

3 Tbsp natural peanut butter

Method: Preheat oven 175°C / 345°F. Use coconut oil to grease two small ramekin dishes.

Depending on the size of your dishes you may have enough batter for 3 layers.

1. Mix flour, honey, and eggs in the blender until a smooth batter forms, then fold in the diced strawberries.

2. Pour batter into the prepared ramekin dishes, about 3/4 of the way full.

3. Bake for 15 - 20 minutes or until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.

4. Allow cakes to cool in pan for 5 minutes and then transfer to cooling racks.

5. While your mini cakes are cooling, make your icing. Combine the yogurt and peanut butter and mix until smooth.

6. Once your cakes are completely cool, spread your icing onto the tops of each layer and stack. Drizzle the remaining icing over the top of the cake, garnish with berries of your choice, and serve.

Adapted from Dog Mama, Serena FaberNelson’s must-read new book filled with over 200 tips, trends, and how-to secrets for stylish dog lovers! moderndogmagazine.com

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A Heart-Dog

By Jennifer Nosek

M

y little girl. My first baby. Four months have gone by since my dog Esther’s passing and there’s not a day that I don’t miss her. Saying goodbye to her was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done—the mad panic few days of trying to make her better at any cost, and the horrifying, heartbreaking realization that I would have to let her go. Helping her pass was both a privilege and an impossibly devastating decision. It felt like my heart broke.

I almost refused to answer the door when the vet arrived at our house. Pacing in the kitchen, my face stained with tears, I had to have my husband greet her. He didn’t want to answer the door either. For a while I refused to come out, desperately wishing for another outcome, my heart filled with terror and disbelief. What a heavy thing to decide for someone you love, but also what a blessing. I was able to be there and help her cross over, at home, in the nicest way possible—on her sheepskin, surrounded by flowers from the neighbourhood, with “Sleep My Baby,” a favourite song from my son’s nighttime music, playing. I just hope I made the right decision for her, and that she knows how deeply she is missed.

When I ask my son, now 20 months, if he remembers Esther, he says, “woof woof” and smiles. Esther took his arrival, that of a demanding interloper, with such grace, lying next to him and sharing bites of sweet potato. But then again, of course she did.

She always had such composure. She was like royalty. A pet psychic once told me she was an Egyptian woman of high standing in a past life. With her regal bearing and kohl rimmed eyes, I can believe it.

Esther and I spent 16 years together—my entire adult life, really—but it felt more like lifetimes. Among the many moons, seasons, phases, and places encompassing our time together, she was my one constant. I used to say she was my “once in a lifetime dog,” smiling down at her, so proud of her slightly aloof, discerning intelligence and always perfect composure, but I’d like to revise that. One lifetime was not enough.

Esther, it’s my fervent wish you come back to me. I can’t wait to see what magnificent form you take next. In the meantime, I carry you with me, not only in my heart, but in the form of a small yellow diamond I’m having your ashes pressed into. I’ll wear it with my wedding ring. I miss you my friend. You were—are—my baby, my familiar, my best friend. I miss the sound of your ears flapping, your love of carpeting, and how you’d head to the door if you saw me getting ready to leave the house, always sure you were coming along (you were right). If I try really hard, I can recognize you’re still right here with me.  moderndogmagazine.com

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Shine Bright Like a Diamond Memorial diamonds turn cremains into a brilliant tribute to a beloved dog Heart in Diamond creates beautiful gem-grade diamonds from your dog’s ashes or fur so you can carry your dog with you wherever you go.

The first step in the process is to determine the diamond size, cut, and colour you would like. There is a rainbow of colour choices, including orange, yellow, blue, and colourless. The intensity of the final colour (for example, a very pale yellow-orange or a deep orange) will depend on the individual’s carbon chemical composition.

Modern Dog's Editor & Creative Director Jennifer Nosek with Esther.

Next, you send ⅔ cup of your pet’s ashes or a ½ cup of fur. You can also combine the two or even add a lock of your own hair. If you don’t have enough, Heart In Diamond can combine additional generic carbon to create your diamond, though most people opt to add in their own hair, says Heart in Diamond’s Operational Manager, Anastasia Formenti.

The carbon from the sample you provide is compressed and placed in a machine that recreates the natural conditions of a diamond growing under the Earth’s crust (extreme temperatures of 3,632°F and pressure levels of 60,000 Atmospheres!). Finally, your diamond is inspected, polished by a diamond polisher, and graded for the 4C’s—colour, clarity, cut, and carat—ensuring your diamond is gem grade. It takes just 75 to 120 days, depending on colour, to create your genuine diamond. Your lab-grown diamond comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and is guaranteed to be physically, chemically, and optically identical to earth-mined diamonds.  Heart In Diamond genuine diamonds start at $750. They offer a 0% interest plan allowing families to spread the cost over six, 12 or 24 months, as well as a bundle deal in case you want more than one diamond made. For example, if you order four of the smallest sized diamonds (all made from the same ashes), then the price is $295 per diamond. You can find out more at heart-in-diamond.com.

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THE SOUL

COMMUNICATOR A conversation with a pet psychic

by Rose Frosek | Illustration by Michelle Simpson

Pet psychic Claudia Hehr has been a professional animal communicator for over 25 years. Here, she spills the secrets: how it works, what dogs most often want to know, and how we can better communicate with our pets.

“S

ince I can remember, I always knew what was going on with the animals that I met or saw from a distance, in pictures, or on TV,” says pet psychic Claudia Hehr. “I just knew what they went through or how they were treated, and I felt their fears, worries, and concerns.”

Claudia has been communicating with animals her entire life and has been working as a professional animal communicator for over 25 years.

“One of my clients contacted me to ask her dog companion if he was lonely and maybe wanted another companion,” she shares. “He said that yes, he was lonely but would prefer his guardian stay at home with him. My client told him that she needed to go to work.

“He asked if it would be possible for her to work from home, but she said no, since her boss wanted her to work from the office. He asked her why she didn’t work for herself.

My client’s response was that she didn’t know what to do, how to make money or even how to go about it. Her dog companion gave her a detailed description of what she should do and how to do it, step by step. My client was listening and taking in his advice. Now my client is working from home, has five full time employees, bought a little farm, and even adopted another dog companion for her dog to play with.”

Stories like this are not uncommon for Claudia. She has communicated with thousands of animals and hundreds of different species, she says. We asked her how it works and what our dogs most often want to know.

Q: Can you connect with people too or just animals?

A: I communicate with animals physical and non-physical, people physical and nonphysical, plants, rocks, Mother Earth.

I have communicated with unborn children, babies, people who are handicapped and cannot talk. I can even connect with your organs or each cell in your body. For me everything is someone.

Q: Do animals just spontaneously connect with you, say dogs on the street, and want to communicate something?

A: Absolutely. Animals are very open and connect right away with me when I see them.

Many times, animals that I know or have communicated with before also get in touch with me over a distance.

Q: Can you connect with pets that have passed on?

A: Yes. Connecting people with their animal companions who have left their physical bodies is big part of my work. Personally, I connect with all my animal companions who have left their physical bodies several times a day.

Q: What do dogs most commonly want you to tell their people?

A: One of the most common things that animals ask about or like to know about is what is going on or what is going to happen, now and in the future. Not knowing is very stressful for them and brings on a lot of anxiety.

Q: What should people be telling their dogs to reduce their stress?

A: It is always so helpful to tell our animal companions what is going on or what is going to happen. These can be little things like friends coming over for dinner, people coming into our homes for repairs, roofers, and so on. Other things that are important for our animal companions to know are things like trips to the groomer or veterinarian and especially what is going to happen there.

Q: How does it work? What information do you need to connect with a pet?

A: Communicating with animals can be done either in person/ animal or over a distance.

When I connect with an animal, I connect with his or her soul and that is why I can also connect with animals who have left their physical bodies. Souls are immortal.

Most of my communication sessions are over a distance since I have clients all over the world. When I connect with an animal, I just need to know who I am connecting with, however, most of my clients send me a picture of their animal companions. Always nice to see who you are connecting with.

 Sessions costs depend on length and start at $75 CAD. Find Claudia at claudiahehr.com. moderndogmagazine.com

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Greatest Dog Show on Earth The

Written & photographed by Yaunna Sommersby

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“It can change your life.” The Westminster Kennel Club is not just must-watch TV for dog people, it’s the pinnacle of achievement for its dedicated participants

T

his is it, the dog event. The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is not only one of the biggest dog shows in the world, but one of the oldest consecutively held sporting events in the US—its 144-year history makes it second only to the Kentucky Derby.

“Our first show, held in 1877, was at Gilmore’s Garden, which was the original name of Madison Square Garden,” shares Gail Miller Bisher, the Communications Director for the WKC. A small but dedicated team, of which Gail is a part, works on planning and running the show all year.

“There are many logistical challenges, but our focus is always to continue hosting the best dog event in the world for exhibitors and spectators alike,” says Gail.

For participants, it’s not just a hobby, but a lifestyle. Breeders, owners, and handlers compete at shows and events year-round, with the ultimate goal of qualifying to compete at Westminster. The ones that make it are the chosen few, the cream of the crop.

This year it was particularly tough to qualify. “Westminster is an all-champions show in 2020,” says Gail. “That means only dogs who have earned an AKC Champion title are eligible to enter the conformation competition. We invite the top five ranked dogs in each breed and the Best of Breed winner of each breed’s National Specialty shows.”

Over 200 AKC-recognized breeds and varieties are eligible to enter the conformation competition this year. 2,500 dogs from countries around the world will be competing this coming February, including the Azawakh, a sighthound breed that will be making its Westminster debut in the Hound group. More than 350 dogs will also compete in Masters Agility and Obedience. (Recently introduced, these events are open to mixed breed dogs as well as purebreds.)

This year’s show will see new and returning faces alike.

“I have been attending WKC for over 30 years,” says Doug Johnson, who has bred two Best in Show winners, as well as won over 25 Best of Breeds. “It allows the general public into our world and shows them the great value and dedication we have at preserving our breeds.”

Doug breeds Clumber, Sussex, and English Toy Spaniels through his Clussexx kennel.

His Clumber Spaniel, Brady, won Best in Show at Westminster in 1996 and his Sussex Spaniel, Stump, won in 2009.

“WKC has been a big part of my life,” he says. “It brought a great deal of attention to my kennel and the lessor known breed I was breeding, Clumber Spaniels. This win catapulted me to the spotlight and really transformed my life both as a dog breeder and as a person involved in the sport.”

Doug will not be showing this year as he is also an AKC accredited judge and will be judging seven of the Working breeds and seven of the Non-Sporting breeds.  moderndogmagazine.com

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To qualify to show at Westminster, the teams behind the dogs spend time, money, and countless hours campaigning and working with their dogs.

year’s show had over 50,000 attendees, press representing every major news outlet, from the New York Times to US Today, and a TV viewership of 3.5 million.

“The cost of campaigning a dog can vary as it is based on several factors such as amount of advertising [there are show magazines showcasing dogs, in which you can advertise to hopefully familiarize judges with your dogs and their accomplishments], number of shows entered, handling fees paid, travel expenses, and care/conditioning charges,” says Gail.

“What I enjoy most about the events is building the excitement and then having the days of celebration arrive for the masses to enjoy,” says Gail. “Whether its greeting people at the Piers (one of the event locations), conducting media interviews explaining the show, or being an analyst on the FOX Sports telecast, I’m excited to represent the sport and this historic club that is a leader in the world of dogs.”

Bill Shelton of Coventry Corgis and his number one Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Dotty will be competing at Westminster this year.

“This is a wonderful sport to showcase breeds of dogs and this is a close group of people who are supportive of their friends,” says Bill. “Sharing the company of dogs is a gift.”

“The world watches this show,” adds Doug. “It can change your life! It certainly did mine. But the very best part is the pride in being able to compete on a level with some of the greatest dogs of these wonderful breeds.” 

Dotty is within the top 20 dogs in the United States, sitting at the #12 top dog spot. Preparation for the main event begins “weeks before, caring for her nutrition, exercise regime, bathing, brushing, and combing regularly,” says Bill.

He and Dotty work as a team in the show ring and he handles, grooms, and trains her as well.

“I try to have the best time I possibly can with Dotty. She knows what she’s doing. I’m there to share this incredible moment with her to the best of my ability,” says Bill. “These show dogs after all are someone’s beloved pet first.”

There are a lot of different pieces and a world of dedicated dog people who come together to put on a major event like this. Last

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In NYC for the Show?

Here’s Where to Stay Do like many of the Westminster competitors and stay at the supremely dog-friendly Hotel Pennsylvania, located directly across the street from Madison Square Garden where Best in Show takes place. In addition to being ideally situated, you’ll likely find yourself sharing the hotel lobby and elevators with show dogs, allowing you to pet the coiffed pups and chat with the owners about their turn in the ring!

moderndogmagazine.com

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FOOD & HEALTH

How to Read a Dog Food Label Four things you should pay attention to when reading the label of your dog’s store-bought food.

By Tracey Tong

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ook for the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional adequacy statement. This ensures that the diet meets the minimum nutrition requirements, says Vancouver-based veterinarian Dr. Katherine Kramer. The basis for the AAFCO nutritional statement is either through the formulation method or the feeding trial method, she says. The formulation method is a laboratory nutrient profile analysis that does not require feeding or digestibility trials to substantiate the availability of the listed nutrients.

The feeding trial method is considered the “gold standard.” Foods that have had feeding trials can make claims as being appropriate for gestation and lactation, growth, maintenance or complete for all life stages. Pet foods that do not meet the AAFCO requirements will have a nutritional statement that indicates that the food is “intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only.”

Prioritize proteins Label ingredients are listed in order of weight with the first ingredient being the largest amount,” says Dr. Kramer.

Ideally the food should have one or two quality proteins listed within the first few ingredients.

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Know what is meant by guaranteed analysis This is a mandatory requirement that contains the labeled percentages of crude protein, fat, fibre, and moisture. Discuss the analysis with your veterinarian to make sure the percentages will suit your pet.

The guaranteed analysis and the ingredient list are the only way of truly comparing apples to apples when it comes to pet food, says Dr. Danielle Bernal, an on-staff veterinarian with Wellness Natural Pet Food.

“Every pet parent wants to see ingredients they recognize: fresh meat first, concentrated meat proteins second or third, real fruits and vegetables, and then all the bells and whistles like healthy fats, salmon oils or flaxseeds, dietary fibers, prebiotics and probiotics,” she says.

Next, Dr. Bernal suggests looking for a long-guaranteed analysis, which is the way of seeing which nutrients are left in the finished kibble once the cooking process is complete.

For a healthy pet, look for proteins around 35 percent for dogs and 45 percent for cats, fats moderate around

15 to 16 percent, omega fatty acids guaranteed, vitamins and antioxidants guaranteed, glucosamine and chondroitin guaranteed and probiotics that are listed as guaranteed to ensure they are still viable for a pet when they eat them, she says.

Be wary of marketing terms Don’t get sucked in by terms, says Dr. Kramer. ”'Holistic' does not have a legal definition in the pet food industry but it is used to imply the food contains additional ingredients to boost health,” she says. “'Natural' also does not have a legal

Treats:

What's the Rule of Thumb?

Considering that 56 percent of dogs are overweight, pet parents need to reconsider how they reward their pets and start thinking of healthy snacking choices instead.

“The most important thing to consider is that any treats are within your pet’s daily intake and not on top of it,” says Dr. Bernal. Her simple rule of thumb is to have treating account for 10 percent of total daily calories, which in many cases is equal to a few healthy treats.

Dr. Kramer recommends fruits and vegetables, which “make great low-calorie treats,” she says.

Dr. Dobias favours “single source, locally made dehydrated treats. The less processed they are, the better, and dehydrated or cooked meat is ideal,” he says. “Beware of feeding too much liver, which can cause hypervitaminosis A—so-called liver toxicity.”

definition but typically implies that there are no additives, preservatives or artificial colourings or flavourings. Both of these terms are typically used as a marketing ploy and any company can use these terms.” Organic foods are those that are free of pesticides, added growth hormones, synthetic fertilizers, antibiotics, by-products, and genetic modification, says Dr. Kramer. Companies must adhere to strict federal regulations in order to be USDA-certified organic.

Vegetarian diets suggest that they contain no meat products but may contain dairy products, and vegan suggests that there are no animal products within the diet. Dr. Peter Dobias, who specializes in Western and holistic veterinary medicine and nutrition for dogs and, in 2011, became Canada’s first dog-only veterinarian, suggests avoiding this diet altogether. “Balanced vegetarian or vegan food is reasonable and ecologically sound for humans,” he says.

“The canine digestive tract requires a combination of meat, bones, and plant food. People would laugh if someone tried to feed a steak to a rabbit or a horse while we do something very similar to cats and dogs with vegetarian or vegan food.

I wish they could thrive on it as it would save animal lives, but they simply can't.” moderndogmagazine.com

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Training

DOGS THAT

PLAY TOO

ROUGH 5 Ways to Calm Your Roughhousing Pooch

By Teoti Anderson

#1 Exercise

T

here’s a difference between a dog that is playful, and one that turns your living room into a demolition derby. Some dogs go from zero to 60 in two seconds flat, jumping, zooming, and even nipping in their exuberance. While this can be annoying with a 4-pound Chihuahua, it’s downright dangerous in a 70-pound Goldendoodle. How do you know when too much is too much?

Sometimes, it depends on the breed or breed mix you have.

A teenage Labrador Retriever is definitely not the same as a teenage Basset Hound. Sporting, herding and terrier breeds in general are extremely active. Did you choose an athlete or a couch potato? Learn about your dog’s breed or breed mix and find out what is considered a normal activity level for him.

When dogs play, it can sound like a heavyweight wrestling match when it’s actually just normal. Some dogs are quite vocal when they roughhouse with each other. To determine if they’re playing and not fighting, look at all the dogs in the mix. Is their body posture curvy and bouncy? Good. Is it stiff and straight?

Not good. Is there a lot of back and forth between the dogs, each taking turns as to who is on top or chasing the other?

Good. Does one dog look unhappy and is trying to avoid the other? Not good. If you think the play is one-sided, intervene.

Even if you think the dogs are loud but ok, it’s a good idea to interrupt them now and again. Call them over to you and have them sit for treats, calm down a bit, then release them back into play. This can help prevent a friendly match from tipping over into a tiff.

Still think your dog is a tornado on paws? If your dog’s overexuberance is wearing on your nerves, here are five ways to help calm the beast.

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Many dogs simply don’t get the exercise they need. Unless you are running with your dog, walks are not cardio exercise for most dogs. Letting them run around your fenced back yard doesn’t always work, either. Many dogs will run, then stop and sniff, then run, then stop again. If your dog is young, being destructive, barking a lot, and overly rambunctious, he’s likely not getting enough exercise.

Encourage cardio activity with games. Play fetch with your dog or get him to chase a flirt pole toy. Swimming is a great lowimpact exercise. If he is a young dog, be cautious with running or jumping until his growth plates close. Ask your veterinarian if you have questions.

Finding a good dog buddy for him for playdates can tire him out but be careful. A bouncy adolescent Labrador Retriever may not be a safe play partner for a tiny Maltese puppy. One friendly paw over the Maltese’s back could cause harm. Always be careful when mixing large and small dogs.

Start a regular, daily exercise program with your dog, about 15 minutes to a half hour, for a decrease in unwanted behaviours.

#2 Massage Incorporate massage a couple times a week into your dog’s routine. At first, you may have to wait until he is tired.

With time and practice, this should be a soothing activity to help him settle.

Start with short sessions and work up to longer ones as your dog remains relaxed.

#3 Tethering Your dog may own your heart but you can’t be the center of his attention 24/7. You also need to teach him how to calm down and amuse himself.

Loop a leash around a secure piece of furniture and clasp it to your dog’s collar, tethering him securely. Only do this under your supervision so he doesn’t entangle himself. Give him some hard chew toys and a long-term, food-stuffed toy. This is especially good to do when you want to watch TV or eat dinner.

If he whines or barks, just ignore him. Don’t even make eye contact. If he chews on the leash, spray it with a chew deterrent or use a lightweight chain leash. When he is quiet and picks up a toy, calmly tell him he’s a good dog. Some dogs find this exercise difficult and may not settle down for an hour or so.

Just be patient. He will learn to settle down.

If Fido is on a roughhousing rampage and you feel you should intervene before he damages something or someone, then calmly get him and put him on tether. Instead of just yelling at him, you’re giving him an outlet for his energy with appropriate toys.

#4 Consistent Boundaries It’s not fair to let your dog leap up on the couch for cuddle time but yell at him when he lands on your dinner party guest.

If you don’t mind Fido on the couch, teach him to sit first, and only jump up when you give him a specific cue, such as “Up.” If he jumps up without you giving the cue, then make him get off.

Everyone who interacts with your dog must follow the same rules, or your dog will never be consistent. No teeth on flesh, ever, even in play. No giggling when the dog paws at your leg.

You wouldn’t want Fido gnawing or pawing at a toddler or your grandmother, so set clear rules and stick to them.

#5 Training Sometimes, events can trigger your dog’s bouncy behaviour. For example, he’s fine until you pick up his leash.

Then he turns into a jumping maniac.

If you then attach his leash, you’re just paying that behaviour. Instead, teach your dog to sit, and only get up when you give a release cue, such as “Ok.” Cue him to sit, and then attach his leash. If he bounces right up, don’t repeat yourself.

Just wait until he sits again, then try again. Your dog will soon learn that the leash is never attaching until his rear remains on the ground. Training can help channel your dog’s exuberant energy into appropriate behaviours. moderndogmagazine.com

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THE DOG GEAR LOOKBOOK

Your at-a-glance guide to the best stuff for your dog

GEAR

Eco-Canvas Dog Bag Dispenser, From $18; lilarchies.com

Mutt Trackers, From $25; muttluks.ca

Recovery Suit Dog—Blue The Original Walkabout back end Harness, Camo, From $30; suitical.com From $37; walkaboutharnesses.com

WARM

Black White Buffalo Pajamas, $55.50; bigdogscloset.com

Organic French Bulldog Pajamas, From $40; frenchiestore.com

Great White North Coat, From $60; chillydogs.ca

Mia Cable Knit Sweater—Peach, $55; miamorepets.com

COLLARS + LEASHES

Majestic Starburst Collar, From $24; leatherbrothers.com

City Leash Fur in Rue Cambon, Tuscany Italian Leather Leash, Hydro Waterproof Collars, $85; saintrue.com From $20; hotdogsalldressed.com From $59; auburndirect.com

TOYS

Zippy Paws, $14; zippypaws.com

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Holiday-themed Wobble Ball, $19; petplay.com

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GoDogGo Fetch Machine, $180; godoggoinc.com

Scrappy Critter 3-Pack, From $28; talltailsdog.com

BREED PROFILE

The

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P H OTO © A KC

World-Class Herder from the Land Down Under

By Kelly Caldwell

W

ild, rugged, and stunningly beautiful, Australia is a special place with a fascinating history. Part of that history is the development of its beef industry, dating back to the late 1700s, when a small herd of cattle arrived with European settlers.

It may have seemed an impossible task, given the land’s tough terrain and harsh climate, but over the centuries, beef has become a important part of the nation’s economy. And none of it would have happened without the help of dogs, most notably the Australian Cattle Dog. Long before there were cattle in Australia, there were dogs—and, before that, Dingoes. Speculation is that Dingoes were first brought to Australia by way of Asia, roughly 4000 years ago. Dingoes became an iconic Australian wild dog, noted for their toughness and ability to survive in harsh climates and terrain. They were also relatively at ease with humans and not overly interested in conflicts.

Over the centuries, a number of dog breeds arrived by way of travellers from Europe and beyond. Inter-breeding between Dingoes and dogs happened naturally, and some of those mixes proved helpful on farms. Ranchers needed dogs that could skillfully drive cattle over long distances with rough terrain in extreme heat. The imported dogs did their best, but the climate often proved too much.

The already-adapted Dingo provided an answer. Fancier George Elliott is widely credited as the founder of the breed.

He crossed Dingoes with carefully-selected Blue-Merle Collies and Collie mixes. He wanted a compact, sturdy dog with excellent herding skills and the ability to contend with the Australian terrain and heat. His dogs gained a lot of attention among ranchers. His Dingo mixes served as the beginnings of what would become the Australian Cattle Dog. In subsequent years, other fanciers introduced Dalmatian stock, a decision made because that breed was notoriously calm around horses. As a result, the merle markings changed to more of a speckle—either red or blue in tone. Other breeds were brought in to enhance various aspects of temperament, including the Australian Kelpie. Ultimately, the end result was a compact, athletic dog very comparable to the Dingo in appearance and type but with great calm around horses, and a desire to spend time with people.

Tough, intelligent, and versatile, the Australian Cattle Dog quickly gained favour with Australian ranchers. The

breed’s endurance and ability to work cattle Most Popular on long, tough cattle Dogs in the U.S. runs was virtually According to the most recent unparalleled.

AKC registration statistics The type was firmly [1] Labrador Retriever established by the [2] German Shepherd Dog 1890s. The breed was initially known as the [3] Golden Retriever Australian Heeler and a [4] French Bulldog standard was recognized [5] Bulldog in 1903 by the Cattle [6] Beagle and Sheep Dog Club of [7] Poodle Australia. Today, he is [8] Rottweiler known as the Australian Cattle Dog, but over [9] Yorkshire Terrier the years he’s also gone [10] Pointers by the Blue Heeler and [55] Australian Cattle Dog Queensland Heeler.

Whatever you choose to call him, he’ll pay attention. This dog is always paying attention!

The Australian Cattle Dog was accepted by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1980. The AKC accepts blue and red speckle colour variations. This breed is slightly longer than tall and has a distinctive head with pointy ears that speak to his Dingo heritage. Males should be 18 to 20 inches at the withers and females 17 to 19 inches.

While he’s still considered a great choice as a working breed, today’s Australian Cattle Dogs (ACD) are more commonly found on the homestead simply “being” with their families. So, what’s this hard-working herder like to live with?  moderndogmagazine.com

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Profile: The Australian Cattle Dog Size: Medium.

Males range from 18-20 inches at the shoulder; with females from 17-19 inches. Weight range is from 35 to 50 pounds.

Activity level: This is a highly energetic breed that cannot thrive without proper physical and mental stimulations. Daily, vigorous walks are a minimum; think sports, trail running, and herding activities to really see the ACD at his best and happiest.

Grooming: Built tough, the smooth, double-layered coat is no exception.

Weekly brushing and occasional baths will do. Like many dogs, the ACD will shed his undercoat a couple of times each year.

Heritage: Herding dog able to handle large runs of cattle. Compact, sturdy, intelligent, and very athletic, he’s one of the best herders in the business.

For more information on the Australian Cattle Dog rescue in the U.S. and Canada, visit acdrescueinc.com.

If you like the Australian Cattle Dog, you might also consider the:

Australian Kelpie

Australian Shepherd

READ YOUR BREED

Border Collie

For more breed profiles, go to moderndogmagazine.com/breeds

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For starters, he’s smart, loyal, and protective… all traits that served him well in his original purpose. This is a busy breed that makes an ideal companion for someone with an active lifestyle. The ACD needs both mental and physical stimulation, and lots of it.

Early training for good manners and socialization is important. Like many herding breeds, the ACD can be protective of his people, toys, food, etc. His innate instinct to herd isn’t something that just goes away once he’s off the farm. Positive reinforcement training and plenty of socialization from an early age will help ensure he becomes well-adjusted and easy to live with.

As far as training goes, the ACD is smart and loves to learn. You can throw just about any activity his way and he’ll delve into it. In fact, he’ll probably excel at it—we are talking about one of the greatest over-achievers in the dog-world!

Give this dog a job, if you want him to thrive. What job?

Herding trials are an obvious option, but beyond that just about any activity that requires focus and effort. This breed is a natural when it comes to obedience, but he’ll embrace any sport. Agility, Flyball, Carting—the more the merrier.

Oh, and don’t forget play time. Because in addition to his walks and activities, he’ll also just want to play with you and let loose.

Like many herding breeds, the ACD can be a bit of a velcro dog. He tends to choose his main person and wants to stay as close to them as possible. That loyalty makes him a nice ‘up for anything’ breed. Want to hop in the car and go do something? Sure! No fear, no worries, the easygoing ACD just goes along and hopes there will be some fun in it for him.

Around the home, the Australian Cattle Dog is relatively quiet to live with, though he will let you know when someone arrives. He’s naturally suspicious of strangers and has a strong protective instinct.

A fenced-in backyard is advised for this breed.

Curiousity, athleticism, and a healthy dose of independence mean the ACD may just feel he “has” go walk-about if he sees something worth a chase.

Grooming is low-maintenance with the ACD—regular nail trims, ear checks, and weekly brushing will keep him looking dapper. In terms of health, he’s a hearty breed but as with all purebreds it’s important work with a responsible breeder who screens their dogs for health conditions known to affect the breed.

Big things come in small packages and this world-class herder proves it. There’s a lot of “dog” in this dog. Is he a no-brainer breed as a pet? No. But when he’s the right dog for you, and you’re the right guardian for him, it has the potential to be one of the greatest partnerships of your life, because the love and loyalty of an Australian Cattle Dog is as large and wondrous as his native home. 

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STAR DOG

Celebrating Second Chances From death row dog to Animal Planet celeb: 14-year-old Dachshund Sherman is living his best life

By Rose Frosek | Photographed by Sara Riddle

D

awn Shonkwiler is our kind of people.

“Dachshunds are my passion,” says Dawn.

The Huntingtown, MD resident is a tireless proponent of senior dog rescue. A “forever foster mom” for Sugar Faces Senior Dog Rescue, Dawn had already rescued two Dachshunds through the organization when she saw a senior Dachshund named Sherman on a shelter website she regularly checked. Dawn left for vacation and returned ten days later to find that poor Sherman had been transferred to a high-intake kill shelter.

Dawn knew she had to do something, fast.

“He was a hot mess—pus-filled eyes, ear and skin infection, and very weak back legs, as well as rotten teeth.

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I asked the director of Sugar Faces if I could pull him and she said yes.”

“As soon as I took him outside and put him down, he put his paws up on the car—a red Nissan cargo van, plastered with Dachshund magnets—and was ready to roll!” laughs Dawn.

There was never any question she would adopt him, despite Dawn’s full house.

“I currently have 16 dogs at my house, all rescues—13 are mine and 3 are fosters. Last year I started my own non-profit, Just One More Dachshund Rescue. I rescue Dachshunds and foster them myself before finding them forever homes.”

Sherman (now 14) currently lives with Wilbur (19), Claire (15), Annie (14), Rusty (13), Rosalita (10), Tucker (10), Shiraz 

(9), Sookie and Gemma (bonded sisters 7), Karley (6), Rigatoni (5), Frankie Bean (3), and various fosters. “Dachshunds, especially seniors, tug at my heart strings,” Dawn says.

Thanks to Dawn, Sherman has a new “leash” on life. Not only is he doted on by Dawn, he’s a celebrity. Animal Planet reached out to Sugar Faces last year and asked if they had any dogs that would like to audition for Dog Bowl. The event, modelled after Super Bowl, is now in its third year and brings attention to adopting older dogs. Sherman auditioned and was selected. He scored two touchdowns and was named MVP by live Twitter vote during the broadcast of the show. In fact, Sherman is headed back to NYC next week for a Hall of Fame taping.

Then there’s the meet and greet with Maryland’s governor.

The local press did a story on Sherman and someone on the Governor's staff saw it and he invited Dawn and Sherman to the Maryland State House. The Governor awarded Sugar Faces Senior Dog Rescue a special commendation for their work in rescuing senior dogs.

And that’s just for starters. Sherman was also voted Best in Show at the Washington Metro Dachtoberfest in 2018, competing against about 100 other Dachshunds, and won Hound of the Town at an area beach town. But for Dawn, it’s all about inspiring others to adopt a senior dog in need.

“Don't overlook the older dogs in shelters,” she says.

“Sherman was a pathetic looking little old man in a cage at the shelter and in less than two years he has become a local celebrity. If one person sees his story and decides to adopt an older dog, that is a win. We always say #seniordogsrock and Sherman is a testament to that!” 

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I often wonder if his former family thinks about him. He was obviously loved at some point.

What do you want people to know about senior rescue dogs?

“Most people want to adopt puppies (which are incredibly fun!) but they often don't realize how much work they will be. Older dogs are often already house broken and can be very laid back but still have some playful puppy in them. It's so sad when you see older dogs in shelters— many are given up because they are too old, or their family is moving. Once in the shelter, their world is turned upside down. They deserve a second chance and the opportunity to live out the rest of their lives in a forever home.”—Dawn Shonkwiler

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Connie’s Book Club

Curl up with a good dog and a good book EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CONNIE WILSON’S SELECTION OF THIS WINTER'S MUST-READS.

Gabby: The Little Dog That Had To Learn To Bark

by Barby Keel

Blind Search

by Paula Munier This sequel to Borrowing of Bones sees former army MP Mercy Carr and her bomb-sniffing dog Elvis return to solve a compelling murder mystery. When Henry, an autistic nine-year-old boy, gets lost in the Vermont wilderness, his ordeal becomes even more terrifying when he discovers a woman, killed by an arrow to the heart, while trying to find his way home. With a blizzard approaching, the race is on for Mercy and Elvis to apprehend the killer and find and keep Henry safe. Based on the true search-and-rescue of an autistic boy, this page turner will take you on a roller coaster ride through the worst of winter—and human nature.

Dog is Love: Why and How Your Dog Loves You

by Clive D.L. Wyne, PhD We have all felt what we believe is love from our dogs but for years, scientists have warned against anthropomorphizing and concluding that our dogs do love us back, despite millions of owners believing this to be true. Clive Wynne, however, founding director of the Canine Science Collaboratory at Arizona State, set out to show that affection is the very essence of dogs. His findings are highlighted in Dog is Love, a fascinating read that will leave you with a deeper understanding of and appreciation for dogs and their capacity to love. A must read for any dog lover!

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Having run the Barby Keel Animal Sanctuary for 54 years, Barby Keel thought she’d seen it all until Gabby, a golden-haired terrier, arrives on her doorstep. This scared little dog is not only afraid to play with other dogs but is also completely mute. Barby quickly falls in love with the little dog and is determined to connect with her and unleash her true nature, but when tragedy befalls Barby, Gabby and the entire animal sanctuary are at stake.

Long Nose Legacy

by J.G. Eastman When an American Grand Champion Russian Wolfhound named Amazing Grace gives birth to four puppies, it sends ripples throughout the dog-show world. Puppy Carnegie assumes she’ll be the pick of the litter, having been taught by her mother to be a snobby show dog. So when her humble sister Madison wins, Carnegie sets her sights on a loftier goal—moving from New York to the Imperial Palace in Russia. Madison is then torn between loyalty to her owner to continue their kennel’s legacy and her loyalty to her sister. Which will she choose? Long Nose Legacy is a fanciful and heartwarming adventure that will delight dog lovers of all ages!

Molly

by Colin Butcher Meet the Sherlock and Watson of missing pets! This incredible true story reads like fiction: Colin Butcher, a Navy veteran and long-time police officer, founds the United Kingdom Pet Detective Agency, recruiting his rescue dog Molly to help in reuniting owners with lost pets. Molly is up to the task, proving herself by expertly finding and rescuing missing cats, but it’s Molly and Colin’s relationship that is truly the heart of this wonderful read.

Must-haves for you & your dog

moderndog marketplace

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Must-haves for you & your dog

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LAST LICK

A Warrior For Animals K

atie Cleary is not just another pretty face. The actress, filmmaker, and former America’s Next Top Model contestant is a deeply committed animal activist. She founded the animal welfare organization Peace 4 Animals, as well as the animal news network World Animal News (WAN) and produced the documentary Give Me Shelter, which premiered on Netflix in 2015 and dives into the world’s most important animal welfare issues and those who dedicate their lives to saving animals.

Her organization’s campaigns are focused on saving endangered species in Africa, Indonesia, and India, as well as the United States. They advocate for the plant-based movement and help farm sanctuaries save animals from slaughter. They also rescue and rehabilitate companion animals and help to pass laws that protect animals worldwide. We asked the inspiring Katie how she found her path and what dog lovers can do to help.

Q: Describe yourself in 10 words or less.

A: I am a passionate, strong, independent woman who is a warrior for animals.

Q: What was the spark that led you to become involved in animal activism?

A: It was a calling when I was a child. I always knew that speaking on behalf of the voiceless was my life’s mission.

I began rescuing animals at a young age and knew that I wanted to help save and protect animals and start my own organization one day.

Q: What is your number one goal?

A: I have two goals. First is to mainstream animal welfare on a global scale through my news network, World Animal News, and be able to have the first ever animal news show on a major news network worldwide. I would also like to start the Peace 4 Animals rescue and rehabilitation center for endangered species in Kenya and focus on rescuing African elephants and rhinos.

Q: What are the three things you'd like to see dog lovers do to help animals?

Katie Cleary with Husky/Alaskan Malamute mix Wolfy, who was rescued from the parking lot of a high-kill shelter in LA.

A: I would love to see more people volunteer at their local shelters to help care for animals and to take photos of the animals and post them to social media so they can get more exposure and find a loving forever home. I would also love to see more people adopt not shop.

P H OTOS CO U R T E S Y O F K AT I E C L E A R Y

Model behaviour: Former America’s Next Top Model Katie Cleary is on a mission, and she could use your help