The Dog Dish Magazine - November/December 2017

u Raising Confident Canines

November/December 2017

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK: A Glimpse into the Life of a Local Rescue Champion

Holiday Gift Guide We Asked…

Do You Have a Holiday Tradition with Your Dog?

PAW IT FORWARD Feasting with Fido

Gingerbark Men Recipe

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November/December 2017 • 3

LETTER FROM THE

PUBLISHER:

PUBLISHER: Katie Munda katie@thedogdishok.com EDITOR: Michelle Van Swearingen ART DIRECTOR: Shane Kroutil The Art House PHOTOGRAPHER: Katie Munda OPERATIONS MANAGER: Matt Munda matt@thedogdishok.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Dr. Zac Coldiron, DVM, Stoneridge Animal Hospital

Greetings, readers! I’m glad you picked up a copy of The Dog Dish. It’s my most favorite time of year and I’m excited to share this issue with you! Be sure to check out the Holiday Gift Guide on Pages 24 and 25 for some fantastic, mostly local, gift ideas for the dog and dog lover in your life.

With all the feasting and fun coming up, we may be tempted to sneak a bite of our favorite holiday treat to our pups! Our friends at Stoneridge Animal Hospital have shared some great information on what holiday foods we should avoid giving Fido on Page 12. As you’re making memories with family and friends this holiday season, don’t forget to include the furry family! We’ve got some fun ways to celebrate with your fur kids on Page 10. We loved reading your responses to this issue’s We Asked… question! Check out Page 8 to read about the holiday traditions our readers have with their dogs.

If you’re considering adding another fur baby to your family, be sure to read Page 16 for some important advice from Full Circle Obedience on the importance of raising independent, confident, canines. So many of us look for ways to give back this time of year; check out the fun, easy, ways to “Paw It Forward” that Barkley University shared with you on Page 22. If you’ve ever considering getting involved with a rescue organization, now is a great time to give back. Head to the Local Rescues and Shelters page on our website at www. thedogdishok.com for a list of some of great, local groups who could always use the help of volunteers, fosters, and donations.

Page 26, includes some insight from a dear friend and local rescue champion, on what life is like as an animal rescuer. It’s an eye-opening look into all the time, emotion, and hard work that go into giving rescue pups the chance they deserve. We are so grateful to all our friends in rescue for all that they do for dogs in need in Oklahoma. Last but certainly not least, Molly has shared a yummy, holiday treat recipe for your pooch on Page 30!

Thanks so much to our sweet readers and our amazing advertising partners, who make this publication possible, for a GREAT year! I wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy Holiday. See you next year!

Katie Munda Publisher 4 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Sydney Head, Full Circle Obedience Shelley Erdman, Full Circle Obedience Michelle Van Swearingen, Barkley University Dog Training Katie Munda ADVERTISING SALES: (405) 245-9059 advertise@thedogdishok.com P.O. Box 31671 Edmond, OK 73003 info@thedogdishok.com www.thedogdishok.com The Dog Dish Magazine Copyright 2017 Cover to Cover blog.thedogdishok.com facebook.com/thedogdishmagazine @dogdishmag @thedogdishmag info@thedogdishok.com

Articles and advertisements in The Dog Dish Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or the publisher. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

UPCOMING EVENTS Looking for something fun to do in the Oklahoma City metro?

Note: Not all of the events below are dog friendly. Events listed here are either dog friendly or support dogs or rescues.

Keep current on local events at www.thedogdishok.com.

November

Edmond Turkey Trot Thursday, November 23, 8 a.m.

Downtown Edmond

A dog and family friendly 5k run and 1-mile wobble.

The best Turkey Trot costume wins a delicious prize!

Proceeds benefit Turning Point Ministries.

OKC Turkey Tracks Thursday, November 23, 8:30 a.m.

Downtown OKC

Bring the kids and fur kids for a pre-feast run! Don’t forget to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys For Tots!

December

The 12 Doghouses of Christmas Saturday, December 2, 7 p.m.

Greens Country Club, OKC

12 local artists put their creative spin on mini doghouses that are paired up with a piece of their artwork for the live auction. Dinner, dancing, a silent auction, wine pull, and presentation of The Brutis Award will round the evening out.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on all the dog-friendly holiday events happening around the metro this season!

(405) 721-STAY (7829) • 721stay.com • 7823 NW 94th St. OKC, OK

November/December 2017 • 5

TABLE OF CONTENTS 5 Upcoming Events Find out what’s going on in and around the OKC metro for you and your dog.

REGULAR FEATURES

8

We Asked

18 Wag & Brag

Do you have a holiday tradition with your dog? Read on to hear the responses!

29 Local Resource Guide

4

Publisher’s Letter

10 6 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays with Your Pooch

16 Raising Confident Canines

Fun ways to include your fur baby in the memory making this season.

12 Feasting with Fido

A local vet shares which holiday favorites to avoid letting your dog sample.

Advice on how to raise independent, confident pooches, and why you don’t want them to become too dependent.

22 Paw it Forward

Easy ways to make a difference in the lives of local dogs.

14 2017 in Review

24 2017 Holiday Gift Guide

A look back at all the fun we had this year!

6 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Gift ideas for the dog and dog lover in your life!

26 All in a Day’s Work

A glimpse into the life of a local rescue champion.

30 Molly’s Munchies

Molly shares her recipe for Gingerbark Men. Perfect for pairing with hot cocoa (for the humans only, of course) and snuggles by the fire!

About Our Cover

Winnie is a 9-monthold rescue pup from Edmond. Her mom, Rachel, says she gets a lot of mileage out of being cute and likes to be the center of attention everywhere she goes!

She enjoys shopping, road trips with her mom, cheering for OSU, and playing with her fur siblings. Winnie loves giving kisses, snacking on fruit, and destuffing her favorite toys. Her mom says Winnie’s always got something to say and wants to tell everybody to adopt a shelter pet because they make life so much fun!

November/December 2017 • 7

We Asked…

Do you have a holiday tradition with your dog?

s

Sammy takes pictures with Santa, his stocking goes up, and he gets special treats and presents. - Erica

s

Last year was Finch’s first Christmas!

To say he got spoiled may be an understatement. Finch Cornelius and I got his picture with Santa. He also got to open lots of presents from his Grams, Papa, and Aunt Nay. - Brent

Our sweet Snuffy wore a fluffy Santa collar with bells on it

s

during the Christmas season and we always called him our Jingle Bell Santa! And then on Christmas Day he always wore his Santa suit. He has since crossed the Rainbow Bridge and holidays have never been the same without him. – Robin

8 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Everyone in the family gets s

new underwear and it’s always from the dogs! – Diana s

s

s

s

Ever since Winston discovered his “Chris-Moose” early, we’ve celebrated the holidays by letting him open one gift on X-mas eve. – Stephanie Christmas stockings with gifts and gifts from her human grandma and grandpa. This photo is Pit Bull Rescue Oklahoma alum, Petunia’s, first Christmas after being rescued in July ‘16. – Mary

We love holiday traditions! Thanksgiving morning, we do the Edmond Turkey Trot together and afterward the pups all get their special Thanksgiving meal. For Christmas, we always buy them a new toy and stocking! They get a special meal on Christmas, too. They are some HAPPY babies! – Jennifer

My mom always hangs a stocking for Molly and Bosworth at her house and fills them with their favorite treats! They are so spoiled by their Lovie Geeg! – Katie s

s

s

We have two traditions! Boe Butters & I always spend the first, big snowfall outside playing. She’s been sporting the same jumpsuit for 8 years now! Also, I enjoy hot cocoa while she enjoys an early Christmas eve gift, usually a fancy new bone, in front of a fire waiting for Santa to make the delivery. – Esther

s

s

Every year we take ours to our park in Yukon & walk the lights! – Gina

November/December 2017 • 9

s

6 WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH YOUR POOCH It’s the most wonderful time of the year! We love all the warm, fuzzy, feelings this time of year brings. As you’re making memories with family and friends this holiday season, don’t forget to include your furry family! Here are a few fun traditions to start with your pup this year.

10 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Bake Christmas Cookies

Hang A Stocking For Fido

The way to your dog’s heart is probably through his stomach, right?

Bake him up some yummy treats this holiday season!

Check out Page 30 for Molly’s Gingerbark Men recipe.

Hang a stocking for your pooch by the chimney with care, and we bet that Saint Nicholas soon will be there! Treats, toys, and chew sticks make great stocking stuffers for dogs. Stop by your favorite local pet supply store to pick up some goodies!

Attend A Holiday Event Together

Include Him In Your Holiday Card Photo

From Turkey Trots to photos with Santa, there will be lots of fun to be had! Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on the dog-friendly festivities happening around the metro this holiday season.

No photo is complete without the furry members of the family. Your friends and family will love seeing your pup’s cute smile on your holiday card this year!

Treat Her To A New Festive Collar Or Sweater

Take a Walk or Car Ride to Look at Christmas Lights

She’ll need some seasonal bling for that Holiday card photo. A snazzy collar, bow tie, sweater, or bandana would make an adorable addition.

There are some great holiday light displays at parks our area. Take your pooch for an evening stroll to enjoy the lights. If it’s too chilly out, bring him along for a ride in the car through the display!

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Self-Serve Dog Wash November/December 2017 • 11

Feasting with Fido:

What You Need to Know Before You Feed Your Dog the Holiday Leftovers Dr. Zac Coldiron, DVM, Stoneridge Animal Hospital

It’s that time of the year again where we all look forward to the holiday feasts, fellowship, and fun! After you’ve served that delicious holiday meal, what should you do with all those leftovers? You may think that you are doing your pet a favor by letting them feast on the table scrapes, but many of our favorite holiday foods are unhealthy and even dangerous for our furry family. Here are some things to keep in mind this holiday season.

12 • The Dog Dish Magazine

AVOID NEW FOODS. It’s common for dogs to have sensitive stomachs. Every animals’ gastrointestinal system is different and many dogs have a hard time digesting and properly absorbing larger amounts of a new food. If you know your pet has had digestive sensitivities in the past, you should avoid new foods, especially in large portions. A pup with an upset tummy will put a damper on holiday festivities. It is best to avoid making abrupt changes to the diet and make only small changes when needed.

ABSOLUTELY NO CHOCOLATE. Chocolate can cause abnormally high heart rhythms in dogs. It is always best to avoid offering your dog any item containing chocolate, even if it is a very small amount.

NO XYLITOL OR ARTIFICIALLY SWEETENED FOODS. Anything containing xylitol is very toxic and can be deadly to dogs. If you keep any artificial sweeteners in your home, avoid potential exposure by storing it in a safe place that you’re absolutely certain your dog cannot get to.

NO RAISINS OR GRAPES. Many of our favorite holiday desserts contain raisins, and we often find fresh

grapes on the fruit platter or in mom’s fruit salad. Grapes and raisins have both been shown to be toxic to our canine companions and can cause kidney damage.

STEER CLEAR OF ONIONS AND GARLIC .

Avoid letting your dog sample any dish with onions or other alliums (i.e., garlic, leeks, scallions). These foods can lead to toxic anemia - especially in dogs.

This includes stuffing and other dishes made with broth that contains onions or garlic.

NO MACADAMIA NUTS We recommend that you do not offer a bite of that delicious caramelized macadamia nut tart to Fido as it can cause vomiting and upset stomach.

NO ALCOHOL. Though most of us know not to pour our dogs a glass of bubbly, it’s important to also be aware of various dishes on the holiday table that might have been prepared with alcoholic ingredients.

YEAST BASED DOUGHS ARE OFF LIMITS. Remember as you’re making grandma’s famous

dinner rolls that ingesting unbaked yeast based dough can be very serious for your pooch. The dough will rise and expand in his stomach, which can lead to stomach bloat which can become quite serious.

Also, the fermenting yeast is rapidly absorbed into his bloodstream, which can cause alcohol poisoning.

AVOID BONES! Each year we get calls regarding a pet that has swallowed bones after a holiday feast. Bones, especially those of birds, are often very sharp when broken and can cause very serious damage when lodged in the throat or gastrointestinal tract, resulting in emergency surgery.

If you want to treat your pup to some holiday treats this season, consider giving them small amounts of healthy fruits and vegetables or lean meats.

Apple, blueberries, carrots, plain pumpkin puree, and sweet potatoes are great options. Make sure to only serve your dog veggies and meats that are free of salt and seasoning.

November/December 2017 • 13

Thanks for a great 2017, Dog Dish Readers!

What a year! We have had the pleasure of meeting lots of great people and sweet pups this year. We’ve attended several fun events and even hosted our first ever very own event. We have LOVED seeing all the photos you have submitted and reading your adorable responses to our We Asked… questions. We want to give a special thanks to our amazing advertising partners who make this publication possible, and to all our sweet readers- you and your fur babies are why we do what we do! Here’s a look back at some of the fun we had this year.

14 • The Dog Dish Magazine

November/December 2017 • 15

RAISING CONFIDENT DOGS: Why You Shouldn’t Let Your Dogs Become Too Dependent Written by Sydney Head, Full Circle Obedience

While we all want our fur kids to be close and enjoy one another’s company, it’s also important that they maintain some independence and don’t become too reliant on their furry siblings. Bonded pairs can happen when you bring home two puppies, or when a new dog is brought into the household with an existing dog, or among two dogs who’ve lived together for some time and have become codependent.

If you have decided to adopt two puppies at the same time, first and foremost, buy two crates! Do not crate puppies together; dogs need their individual space. When young puppies are crated together, they do not learn or develop coping skills to be without one another. If you have been crating puppies together, don’t wait, buy a second crate.

While you want your dogs to get along, you do not want them to become a bonded pair. Bonded pairs lead to anxiety issues, unhappy dogs, and can ultimately result in damaged shoes, walls, doors…anything within reach.

16 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Bonded pairs don’t just apply to new puppies. It is just as likely for bonding to occur when adding another dog to a one or more dog household. This can even occur when gifting a puppy to your middle age or senior dog. In this type of situation, the older dog most likely won’t care one way or the other if separated from the new arrival, but the new dog may have a real conniption when separated from his older pal. With this and other bonded situations, you can start by giving the dogs separate potty breaks or backyard time a few times a week. During this time, you can be bond with the dog inside; playing, training, or just lounging on the couch. After 10-20 minutes rotate and bond with the other dog.

Fortunately, the following methods to help prevent separation anxiety with bonded pair puppies will also apply to two dogs that are already codependent. In the beginning put the crates side by side. On day 2 or 3 pull the crates just a few inches away from each other. Each day you move

the crates further and further away from each other. Example: if your puppies or adult dogs stay in your bedroom you might eventually arrange the crates on either side of your bed or opposite sides of the room.

The key is to go slow, no need to rush the process. Rush this process and you could create phobias and/or frantic dogs. The key is to provide ample time for the pups or dogs to develop the necessary coping skills to be “okay” without one another.

A great exercise for new puppies or an already bonded pair is for you and a partner to take the dogs out on separate routes during neighborhood walks. If you do not have a partner to help, leave one dog behind in their crate or baby-gated in a small area such as a utility room with a tasty frozen stuffed Kong or bone. I suggest walks and outings in cycles of 3 as follows: The first outing to a new neighborhood park, dog friendly patio, or garden center, you will take just one dog. For the second planned outing, switch and take the other dog - this could be within the same day,

Separation Anxiety Shelley Erdman, Full Circle Obedience

Separation anxiety is a serious emotional issue that some dogs have when they are separated from their parents. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety panic often when their loved ones leave them and can become destructive to household items and even injure themselves.

Before you decide your dog has separation anxiety talk to a canine professional. True separation anxiety is rare and often destructive behavior is simply adolescent behavior going unsupervised.

Sometimes dog parents just need to revisit house training or teach their dogs what is and is not appropriate to chew on.

Enrolling in a basic obedience class can help build confidence in your dog so they aren’t so anxious when you leave.

Dog parents should take steps to help prevent separation anxiety such as leaving and returning calmly, changing up the morning routine a bit to avoid the anticipation of being left, and teaching dogs early-on to be comfortable in a crate.

Despite our best efforts sometimes we end up with a dog with serious emotional issues such as separation anxiety and we find ourselves in a jam. Trauma, genetics, and unsuitable living conditions can cause separation anxiety. If we can discover the root of the problem we stand a good chance of helping the dog cope with being home alone. Vets can prescribe short term medication to ease your dog’s suffering while you get professional help and a behavior modification plan in place. separation anxiety is not typically a quick fix so plan to be patient and work on the plan your pet professional advises.

the next day, or even the next weekend. On the third outing take both dogs together.

The cycle starts over again on your next outing. First, take dog A, followed by dog B, and finally take both dogs A & B. The more times you repeat this within a week, rapidly going through all three cycles, the faster your dogs will get used to the routine and the more their coping skills will develop.

If your dogs are older, and have full blown panic attacks when one dog leaves without the other, you will need to start off with very short trips for your three cycles.

By short trips I suggest approximately 7-15 minutes away from the house with the other dog. If, the panic is extreme for one or both of your dogs, you might check with your vet about temporarily using anti-anxiety medication. As you continue to help them develop coping skills, independence, and good confident

Dogs show their fear of being separated in many different ways: ■ Soiling the house ■ Scratching or clawing the doors, floors, and windows sills ■ Excessive drooling, panting, whining, and barking ■ Shaking ■ Pacing ■ Injuring themselves trying to get out of the house or crate i.e., breaking teeth, cuts and scrapes, tearing paw pads, tearing nails, etc.

■ Refusing to eat

behaviors, you can reduce and finally eliminate the need for medication.

Also, I suggest scheduling your dogs’ annual exams on different dates. Although it’s more convenient to get it all done in one visit, separate visits allow your pooch to receive more individual attention, and you’re also preparing for the day you have a sick or injured dog. In emergencies like those the other dog should not be allowed to tag along to the appointment. Your vet visits will go smoother if you help your dogs learn independence and to not rely on each other for confidence while visiting the vet.

Often when dog owners separate their bonded pairs for the first time during a group class, private lesson, or planned outing, they are shocked to see their dogs’ personalities swap. The dog thought to be cool, confident, and social, becomes a shrinking violet when not coupled with

his or her best dog buddy. Likewise, the usually clingy, whiney, petrified pooch, at the end of the day could turn out to be perfectly fine in solo mode.

If you are teetering on the edge about adding another dog to your household or getting two puppies at the same time, realistically, imagine how life will be for the next 10 to 18 years. Ensuring your two dogs become individually socialized, well-rounded pups with great, stable dispositions, will take double the dedication and double the stamina.

I have had too many phone conversations or private lessons with frustrated, multi-dog clients that question their decision of getting two dogs at the same time. Sadly, that’s when many puppies find themselves in search of a new home. Make sure you are up for the challenge!

November/December 2017 • 17

Arabella

Ainsley Bambina, Zane, Kuma & Zoey Cashew

Baby

Bo Baxter Scrappy Doo Brandon

Baylea

18 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Copper

Brassy Bayes

Coco

Chloe

Calvin

Dash

Cindi

Bronx

Daisy & Pluto

Duke

Copper Domino

Ethel Mae Flash

Dusti Gucci

Hailey Grace Harley Brown

Hashtag

Jules Pinkerton Jack Kessie & Brady Kinley

JD

Keegan & Holliday November/December 2017 • 19

Jake

Landon

Lola

Ky

Luna Mi’Ki

Maddie

Max

Lucy

Nilla

Max

Millie Pablo

Mia

Misty 20 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Mojo

Vader

Panda

Piper Wick

Rowdy

Remington

Rosabella

Sadie & Pepper

Rowdy Scooter O’Brien

Sugar

Splash Tabitha

Shelby Sproket

Sugar

Signal & Vex

Zoe

Think you have the cutest dog?

Tobi

Brag about it!

Woofgang Von Brautenhauzen

Yoda

Email us a high-resolution photo of your pooch and his/her name to photos@thedogdishok.com.

Your photo may appear in the next issue of the magazine!

November/December 2017 • 21

Paw It Forward

Easy Ways to Make a Difference in the Life of a Dog in Need This Holiday Season Written by Michelle Van Swearingen, Barkley University Dog Training

The end of the year marks a time for gratitude, generosity and kindness. Many pups in our state are in need of basic items such as food, supplies, shelter and love. There are dozens of ways we can show our appreciation for our furry friends by helping to enrich the lives of other underprivileged pups in the area. Here are just a few ways you can contribute. 22 • The Dog Dish Magazine

SPEND SOME TIME One of the most enriching and valuable ways to help dogs in need is to simply spend some time with them. Most adoption agencies and shelters in the area are in need of volunteers and many offer foster programs to help keep pups out of the kennels and expose them to home life.

If you are interested in adopting a dog this holiday season, fostering first is a great way to give back and to see if a particular pooch is a good fit for your home.

GIVE A GIFT Another way to contribute is to donate money, food, beds, blankets, leashes, etc. Large retail pet shops often feature donation bins and make it easy to donate money to a good pet-related cause at check out. Other great local programs such as The Pet Food Pantry of Oklahoma City and the I Am Not Alone program through Midtown Vets. Midtown Vets run donation drives to help supply the local homeless shelter with basic necessities for pets. The Pet Food Pantry provides supplemental dog and cat food to low-income seniors,

veterans, and homeless in the community. If you want to go above and beyond, consider organizing a donation swap in-lieu of gifts with family and/or friends. Or, if you shop on Amazon, check out smile. amazon.com, which donates proceeds to a local charitable organization of your choice at no additional cost to you.

SPREAD THE WORD The simplest way help is to reach out on social media and share information about donation drives, volunteer programs and other beneficial events. It’s free, it only takes a few seconds of your time, and the impact can be immense! Instead of sharing instantly, increase your reach by writing something specifically about the event. Consider sharing certain posts publicly, instead of just with friends. Spreading positive messages and supporting worthy causes (especially those featuring adorable furry faces) is an easy way to get those feel good vibes during the holiday season.

ATTEND AN EVENT Speaking of social media… if you’re following all your favorite dog-related businesses and organizations on Facebook, you’re bound to be notified of the many upcoming events benefiting our favorite four-pawed pals. Be sure to check out the Events page at thedogdishok.com for a list of upcoming dog-friendly events. Hope to see you there!

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November/December 2017 • 23

The Dog Dish Magazine

2017 Holiday Gift Guide We’re making a list and checking it twice! Here are some of our favorite gift ideas, mostly local, for the dogs and dog lovers in your life. With these gifts under the tree, it’s sure to be a tail waggingly merry Christmas and a very happy holiday!

Gifts for the Fur Love of Your Life

t NECK BLING A fabulous new collar would make the perfect fashion accessory for your pooch. Whether your dog is hipster, sporty, or a fashionista, there’s a K9 Couture collar to fit their personality. K9 Couture is handmade in Oklahoma and available at several local retailers and online at www.k9couturecollars.com Local Suggestion: BONE Dog Boutique, OKC

t CHEERS! Dogs love beer, too! Boswer Beer, that is. It’s made with real meat, malt barley and glucosamine and is completely safe for dogs, with no salt, fat, or alcohol.

There are several flavors and you can even customize the label to feature a photo of your dog. A six pack with a custom photo of your loved one’s dog would make a great gift for a human, too!

Where to Buy: www.boswerbeer.com

u This is the perfect gift for the loved one who loves to accessorize their mobile device. Casetify has lots of adorable doggie themed cases featuring a wide variety of breeds for Apple and Samsung devices. Casetify is not local but we thought these cases were too cute to leave out. Your trendy, techy friends will love it! Order online at

Where to Buy: www.casetify.com 24 • The Dog Dish Magazine

q SPORTY CHIC Does your pup bleed crimson, orange, or Thunder blue? A jerseys, bandana, dress, or collar in your team’s color are perfect for game day and tailgate parties. Outfit him in his favorite team’s gear and help him root for the home team.

Local Suggestion: All Fur Paws, Edmond

u We’ve never met a dog who didn’t love a good treat! Petzos, an OKC based company, offer treats made of healthy ingredients and they’re perfect for pups with allergies as their gluten and grain free. Every Petzos purchase benefits rescue pups through their Treats for Treats program; a percentage of each sale helps provide treats to rescue and shelter dogs.

Petzos are available for purchase online.

Where to Buy: www.petzos.com

t SO PAWSH Your favorite fashionista is going to fall head over heels for these tees! Treat Dreams is based in Norman, Oklahoma, and offers cleverly cute tops and accessories for the fashion forward Dog Mom. These t-shirts are the perfect combination of cute and comfy. There are even a few selections perfect for your favorite Dog Dad. Ten percent of every purchase is donated a different rescue around the country every month, often an Oklahoma rescue!

TECH GURU

Local Suggestion: Three Dog Bakery, Edmond

FOODIES

Gifts for Your Favorite Dog Lover

Where to Buy: www.shoptreatdreams.com

q CLEAN FREAK So, maybe your dog’s table manners are a little rusty.

Soggy Doggy placemats are the perfect solution for messy eaters and drinkers. They’re made of absorbent microfiber to keep your floors clean and dry. One less mess to clean up after that big holiday dinner!

For more info and to view their other products, visit www. soggydoggydoormat.com.

t WINE PAWNOISSEUR This is one gift the dog-loving, wine connoisseur in your life is bound to appreciate. Chateau La Paws gives back to no-kill shelters and even features shelter dogs on their wine labels. What could be better than supporting rescue pups simply by sipping a glass of wine? Learn more by visiting www.chateaulapaws.com Local Suggestions: Cork & Bottle, Edmond Grand Cru Wine & Spirits, OKC The Spirit Shop, Norman Wine & Liquor Oasis, Yukon

These stores carry at least one type of Chateau La Paws and can special order other types. Always drink responsibly.

t GLITZ & GLAMOUR For the dog enthusiast who loves to accessorize, a custom engraved necklace or charm from The Vintage Pearl is sure to please. These personalized trinkets would also make a meaningful gift to memorialize a pet who’s crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

PAW IT FORWARD

t

It’s always better to give than to receive and the best gift you can give any dog lover is helping dogs in need.

Consider donating to a local rescue or shelter in your loved one’s name. They’ll feel great knowing you helped save a life in their honor. Check out the Local Rescues & Shelters page on our website, www.thedogdishok.com, for a list of local organizations.

SAY CHEESE! u Dog pawrents can never have too many photos of their fur kids, right? Give your friends and family the gift of a photo session for their beloved pooch, or for the whole family! It’s a gift they can enjoy for a lifetime.

Local Suggestions: Imagine If Photography www.imagineifphoto.com Photos by Keshia www.photosbykeshia.com

Where to Buy: The Vintage Pearl, Edmond

Other Gift Ideas:

• Training session • Doggie daycare play • • • •

•

*The

day Dog Dish Dog walking Magazine was not service compensated by any of A day at the the above businesses for spa for your inclusion in the Holiday dog Gift Guide. Businesses Toys and treats listed here are Dog Dish Gift certificate to Magazine tested and a restaurant with a dog-friendly approved! patio Gift certificate to a local dog retail store

A great list of these service providers can be found in the Local Resource Guide on page 29.

November/December 2017 • 25

All in a Day’s Work:

A Glimpse into the Life of a Local Rescue Champion written by Katie Munda

Tootsie

Rod and Titan Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be an animal rescuer? We got the chance to visit Pit Bull Rescue Oklahoma and visit with founder, Rod Goodhue and his wife, Beverly, to meet some incredible dogs and learn more about life at a dog rescue.

26 • The Dog Dish Magazine

Rod Goodhue, an Oklahoma native, founded Pit Bull Rescue Oklahoma (PBR) in 1999. Their 70-acre farm in southern Oklahoma is home to more than 200 dogs, a few horses, some cows, a pot belly pig and several cats. It’s a beautiful place with a very warm and welcoming air about it. PBR is primarily a pit bull rescue, but they don’t hesitate to swoop in and rescue other breeds in-need. Rod takes on some pretty tough cases, including abuse, injury, and behavior issues, and does all he can to give them the best chance possible for a bright future. He says he takes in the dogs that many others can’t because, if not him, then who? Countless dogs have found their ‘happily ever after’ thanks to Rod and his team and those who are still waiting will have a home on the PBR farm for as long as they need.

The work that Pit Bull Rescue Oklahoma is doing for bully breeds across Oklahoma is made possible by donations and, of course, funds can get tight. But Rod doesn’t let that stand in the way of giving his dogs what they need. When a fur kid needs a wheel chair, he makes one himself. When sweet Tootsie came along, an adorable puppy with Swimmers Syndrome, PBR refused to give up on her. Rod knew water therapy would be very beneficial to her, but would also be quite costly. So, he built her her own special water therapy tank and harness so that she could get the care she needed. We had the privilege of meeting Tootsie. She is full of spunk and has the happiest little face! She has the Goodhue’s and their team to thank for that.

Rod didn’t accept the vet’s diagnosis that Titan, a gorgeous brown and white pit bull, would never walk again after getting hit by a car. He began nursing Titan back to health, made him a wheelchair, and started working with him to strengthen his leg and hip. The day we visited the PBR farm, Titan, sans wheelchair, ran happily up to us and proceeded to flop over for a tummy rub and then played around the yard with his fur friend, Stich. When others wanted to give up on him, PBR wouldn’t.

Rod has devoted his life, full time, to this amazing and misunderstood breed. We asked him to tell us a little more about what everyday life is like for an animal rescuer.

Q: When does your day start and end?

A: Our day starts when the alarm goes off at 5 a.m., and we try to wind down around 9 or 10 p.m. but many nights we’re running until midnight or after.

Q: What does a normal day consist of for you?

A: The plan for the day starts with care of the dogs- kennels to clean, food and water bowls to sanitize and, of course, feeding. There are dogs that require medication morning and night, and others that have dietary needs that require special food prep. There’s always grass that needs to be cut and gravel and dog houses in the

kennel runs that must be washed. There are often repairs that need to be made to kennels or dog food to be transported or mixed. Trips to the vet are commonplace, either for general care, illness or injury, or for a new dog we’ve taken in.

At any point throughout the day we could be called upon to assist a dog or animal in need. Throughout the day we get requests to come and help with a dog, or make arrangements for dogs to be transported in and out of the rescue.

It is normal for the phone to ring during dinner, or when you’re dealing with a family emergency, or in the middle of the night.

It’s not uncommon to get a phone call at two or three o’clock in the morning and get up and make the drive into OKC to pick up a dog.

Monday is no different than Saturday or Sunday; they’re all workdays for us. We never finish a day and not wish that we could have done more.

Q: What made you want to get into rescue work?

A: It was driven by my love for my own pets. I had dogs growing up but it wasn’t until 1983 that I was introduced into the breed known as pit bulls. A friend of mine had a pit bull, her name was Tootsie, and after knowing that dog, I had to have one of my own. I got Oscar and he

was my best friend, my family.

He and others over the years have made me who I am today and I try to return the love they’ve given me through our mission at PBR. In 1999, when I stated PBR, a lot of shelters would not adopt out pit bulls and I knew that was wrong and that I had to do something.

Q: What would you say is the best part of your job?

A: Single best part of what we do is saving animals that would have otherwise been given no chance at all whether it be because of neglect, cruelty, or injury.

Q: What about the worst part?

A: The worst part has to be dealing with loss. Whether it be the animals we couldn’t get to in time to save, or the abuse and neglect cases that are so severe that we can’t turn it around.

That, and the senior dogs that come into the rescue after losing their home. A lot of people don’t look at senior dogs to adopt, but those seniors are the hidden gems. Watching a senior dog that should be enjoying a family, wait for someone that isn’t coming…it’s very painful to see.

Q: What would you like readers to know about rescue and/or your life as an animal rescuer?

A: I want people to know that there’s nothing in it for us, aside from the reward of knowing we’ve done all we can to help save dogs. Rescues run solely on donations and the money we can put into it ourselves.

I don’t think most people realize the hours and the sacrifice that an animal rescuer puts into their mission. I have many friends that do animal rescue, all of which operate at different levels whether it be a small foster based rescue or a big brick and mortar shelter, and we all make sacrifices.

To do rescue, and do it correctly, you have

November/December 2017 • 27

very little private or personal time. I am fortunate that my wife is also a rescue person, so we have a shared passion for this life.

I want to see more rescue groups in our state working together to achieve our common goal of saving and advocating for animals. We could do more good, together.

My mission is never about being in the limelight; my mission is solely to save the animals that are overlooked. We like the pretty dogs as much as the next person but the ones that need us the most are the ones that others will often overlook. If we spend a lot of money on medical care for a dog with heart worms or with Parvovirus, some people will say we’ve done a disservice because we could have saved several more dogs with the money we spent on just that one, but I don’t think that way. We want to give every animal we can the opportunity to be healthy and live the happy life he or she deserves.

I have always operated in faith and God has made a way for this mission to go forward. Without faith and the

28 • The Dog Dish Magazine

support of my Savior, I would have had to give up years ago.

Q: What is it about pit bulls that has stolen your heart?

A: The thing that makes the breed stand out to me is the level of neglect and abuse they endure from humans, and the bad reputation placed on them through no fault of their own.

People say it’s all in how they are raised and while there is some truth to that, it’s not the whole story. I have seen, first-hand, dogs that have been neglected, horribly abused, forced to fight, tortured, set on fire and other things you can’t even fathom, and those same dogs come out on the other side with love in their hearts for the humans privileged to care for them. The myths surrounding this breed are simply not true and are merely the sensationalized views of someone that has gotten their “facts” from watching news stories. I have regular encounters with people whose views are changed upon meeting one of our dogs.

The breed known as pit bull is one of the most resilient dogs I have ever known. These dogs would give their life to save their humans and never think twice. It is their love and their loyalty that won my heart.

We are so thankful for the selfless work that PBR and other rescues in our state are doing for dogs in need. PBR is always in need of monetary and food donations, but they also have a great need for volunteers to help care for the dogs, upkeep at the rescue, or with adoption and outreach events across the metro. To learn more about Pit Bull Rescue Oklahoma or the ways you can help, please contact them at prbok@yahoo.com.

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LOCAL RESOURCE GUIDE Your guide to the best dog groomers, veterinarians, doggie daycares, boarding facilities, and more in the Oklahoma City metro area.

Dog Sitting/Dog Walking Deep Deuce Dog Walker 405-757-9497 www.thedeepdeucedogwalker.com

Savvy Pet Sitter

Woof Works Pet Concierge

Retail All Fur Paws

405-300-0411 www.petconciergeok.wordpress.com

Edmond 405-348-6888

Friends of Fido Bajaj Plastic Surgery

www.allfurpawsok.com

405-219-0011 www.savvypetsitter.com

BONE Dog Boutique & Self-Service Dog Wash

Welcome Home Pet Care 405-657-8085

Oklahoma City

www.welcomehomepetcare.com

www.facebook.com/Boneokc

DentalWorks by Edwina V Johnson

Three Dog Bakery

Oklahoma City

Edmond

405-557-1245

405-697-2868 www.facebook.com/ ThreeDogBakeryOK

www.evjdentalworks.com

Veterinarians Animal Medical Center I-35 Edmond 405-359-6301 www.edmondvet.com

Midtown Vets Oklahoma City 405-606-4477 www.midtownvets.com

Woodlake Animal Hospital Oklahoma City 405-721-6604 www.facebook.com/ woodlakeanimalhospital

405-600-3460

405-721-7829 www.fullcircleobedienceschool.com

Barkley University Oklahoma City 405-652-9843 www.barkleyuniversityokc.com

ROC Animal Training & Behavior 405-201-3806 www.rocanimaltraining.com

Earthborn Holistic Foods (Made in Oklahoma)

Specialty Services OKC Pet Waste 405-822-3772 www.okcpetwaste.com www.facebook.com/okcpetwaste

Precious Pets Cemetery Spencer 405-771-5510 www.preciouspetscemetery.com

Professional Trainers Full Circle Obedience Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City 405-810-8448 www.bajajplasticsurgery.com

Dr. Farr, Dr. Tomlinson, Dr. Krenek

Comprehensive Dental Practice Evenings and Sundays 4200 Hemingway Dr., OKC. 405.557.1245 edwinavjohnson@sbcglobal.net

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lComprehensive medical care lGeneral surgery and dental care lOn-site pharmacy lBoarding and professional grooming Compassionate and quality care for your fur babies!

405-359-6301 • Conveniently located just off I-35 in Edmond.

November/December 2017 • 29

Hello, fur friends! It’s me, Molly! The holidays are my mom’s and my favorite time of year. She loves baking Christmas goodies, and I happen to love eating Christmas goodies! We made some doggie safe gingerbread men this year that I know you’re going to be drooling over. We left out the actual ginger because my younger brother, Bosworth, doesn’t like the smell of it. I didn’t see that as a problem. More for me, right?

Alas, mom wouldn’t go for it. I wish you all a happy and delicious holiday season!

Molly’s Gingerbark Men

■ ½ cup molasses ■ 1 tablespoon maple syrup ■ 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil ■ Scant ¼ cup olive oil ■ 1 teaspoon cinnamon ■ 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated (optional) ■ 3 cups oat flour (you can make your own by grinding about 3.5 cups raw oats in a blender or food processor until they are powdered) ■ 2.5 cups whole wheat flour ■ 1 and ½ cups water ■ small gingerbread man cookie cutter, or your favorite holiday shape!

30 • The Dog Dish Magazine

In a small bowl, combine the oils, water, maple syrup, and molasses and stir together.

In a larger bowl, combine oat flour, wheat flour, cinnamon, and ginger, and mix well.

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until well combined.

You will probably need to mix and knead with your hands as the dough will be thick.

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.

Flour your surface and roll dough to about .25-inch-thick and use desired cookie cutter.

Bake 15 minutes. Cookies should be set but still soft.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for one week.

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