Uno, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Marley and Me
It will be a TWO BEAGLE Thanksgiving parade this year, with not just Snoopy as part of the festivities, but UNO, the Westminster Best in Show Beagle riding on the Peanuts float with David Frei. The parade kicks off at 9 a.m., will last until noon, and will be followed by the National Dog Show telecast from noon until 2 p.m. (Many do not know this Pennsylvania fact–but Snoopy was a positive influence on the late Charlie Thornburgh. According to former Pennsylvania first lady, Ginny Thornburgh, Charlie always ate his ration from a Snoopy embellished food dish. The part-Beagle rescue Thornburgh family dog needed it to affirm his Beagle background– especially during political events when he would tend to lose hair! Also, one of Charlie’s playmates was J. Fred Bush, the Bush cocker spaniel who was noted for his destruction of the fur coats of guests.)
David Frei will have an unprecedented triple role–parade rider, Afghan hound judge and TV commentator.
Good news for all who believe in dog bite prevention education. The Dog Law Advisory Board-appointed veterinarians who will determine commercial kennel environments and oversee the health of Commonwealth canines include Dr. Karen Overall. A noted behaviorist, Overall has successfully rehabilitated dogs that have been labeled as “dangerous” and defended them in court from death sentences. Overall also believes that dogs, like people, can be insane. I am tempted to send her Bob Witmer’s article on puppy mill- and pet store-caused aggression. Although socialization is important, nature enters in also, so I am sure she would strongly disagree with it.
Did you know that the average adoption from a good rescue and/or shelter takes about a month? So if anyone is considering adopting a dog for the family by holiday-time–begin now! Also, some rescues have a special program called “Senior to Senior”. This program matches older, well socialized dogs with people who want to share their lives with a dog. The AKC website has been voted the top reference resource on the Internet. It includes all 158 recognized breeds–which includes the newest recognized breed, the Dogue De Bordeaux or French Mastiff. This is another drooling breed. It is said that when drool ends up on the walls or ceiling you have to remove it right away. When dry, it is difficult to get off. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is said to be effective.
“Marley and Me” is now a PSA on responsible dog ownership–”Good Boy, Bad Boy When You own a dog like Marley You Get Both”–as well as a movie. In addition, Marley plush toys are available at Wal-Mart. www.akc.org/Marley. Author John Grogan is a Philadelphia Inquirer columnist, Pennsylvania resident with a wife and 3 children, and was most recently seen on the “Dog Whisperer”. Hope the PSA says something about buying from a responsible breeder.
Lastly, did you know there is a vaccine now to prevent dental decay–for dogs only!
Nov 19, 2008 | | Uncategorized