THE SCOOP 7 easy things you can do to reduce your dog’s ecological footprint, right now.
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Have you heard…? …the best new aviation product of 2007 is actually for the discriminating canine aviator? Mutt Muffs, the world’s first pair of protective ear-gear created with your dog’s sensitive hearing in mind was singled out for the honour at this year’s AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. As they say, necessity is the mother of all invention. Pilot Michele McGuire worried about her canine copilot’s hearing and set about creating something to protect her dog’s ears. After a few design missteps pointed out (or thrown off) by her dog, Cooper, the right design was hit upon. The muffs’ inner foam is the exact same material used for human protective gear and results in a 21 to 24 decibel reduction in noise pollutants, an important consideration given that a dog’s hearing range is almost double that of ours. (According to a study done by Louisana State University, dogs can hear a range of 67-45,000 Hz, while humans can usually only hear a range of 64-23,000 Hz.) This means that while you thought it was loud to ride on an airplane, your dog probably thought it was really loud. Thanks to Mutt Muffs, dogs now have a hearing protection option and search and rescue dogs, co-pilots, pups travelling in cargo, or even dogs spooked by fireworks can enjoy protection from harmful noises. muttmuffs.com
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Make the switch once and for all to biodegradable dog poo bags. What are you waiting for? scoopies.com Order ecologically sound dog beds and organic, pesticide free dog food from olivegreendog.com or greedogpetsupply.com, sites specializing in environmentally friendly pet supplies. Go natural—make your own natural flea spray and deodorizer (see page 68 for instructions). Goodbye chemicals! Eat locally. Search out a dog cookie company making and baking locally. Banish the plastic bag. Buy a reusable canvas shopping bag for trips to the grocer and the pet food store. Consider durability when purchasing dog toys. Better to buy one high-priced, puncture-proof toy than dozens of a cheaper variety that won’t last past a few good play sessions. Put away the plastic wrap and tin foil and instead cover that half-empty can of dog food with a reusable, snap-on plastic lid. torudog.com. Planet Dog’s durable Orbee ball is made of recyclable, nontoxic material.
FREE STUFF
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Seeing Spots
If you and Fifi have been reading bridal mags, this is the contest for you! One lucky reader will win a custom-made, limited-edition cream satin taffeta wedding gown for their (under 35-pounds) dog, as well as a headpiece of faux pearls, sparkle organza, and Swarovski crystal flowers. She’ll be a four-legged vision of loveliness. For more info visit bitchnewyork.com. For contest details, see page 138.
After a ten-year wait, Disney is finally re-releasing every true dog lover’s favourite movie—101 Dalmatians. With an all-new digital restoration, never before heard songs, interactive games, and more puppies than Cruella can shake a fist at, this release truly has it all. Ten lucky readers will win their very own copy! For details on how to win Disney’s 101 Dalmations: Platinum Edition, turn to page 138.
18 moderndog
SP RING 2008