Once upon a time I had the good fortune to interview LeRoy Ellis, one of the early CEOs of the PA SPCA. He explained to me how he and Carl “Red” Canouse chose the location for the Danville Shelter. “Red”, of course, had become involved in sheltering stray dogs after rescuing three that were being used for target practice at the town dump. He then founded the first shelter in Columbia County on Honeysuckle Lane. On Sundays Veterinarian George Leighow and his wife Anna neutered the dogs and cats at no charge. I remember Canouse speaking before the Covered Bridges Kennel Club about the early days. He paused at one point and called out to some people sitting in the last row: “We were all poor then, weren’t we–poor as dirt.”
The next PA SPCA CEO I met was Eric Hendricks, who believed in the cheaper mass killing of unwanted animals and spoke in favor of the decompression chamber at a hearing held by Senators Helfrick and Corman in Danville. Looking back, perhaps that was the beginning of the end of the PA SPCA’s mission of compassion.
Life has changed since then for us all but I would like to believe that the desire to be compassionate is still alive and well and am optimistic that this quality is still a part of all of our lives. On the other hand, a magazine named BARK, the “dog culture magazine”, offered a recent news story that noted the increasing number of falls among senior citizens due to their pets–so while our cats and dogs should be inside and with us as companions, evidently they are a danger, too, lurking with affection and toys underfoot! Taking the negative stories that have recently appeared in the press even further, the economy (culture) has clearly had negative effects on pets as well. Not surprisingly, incidences of dog bites have increased in poor neighborhoods. This is no doubt due to hungry dogs that are either homeless or living in homes where dog owner tempers are stretched to the point of cruelty–battered pets, children, women and the elderly. Thus, it is impossible not to discuss pets when discussing culture today in America. Does the dog on the levee of Fargo sand bags remind you of Katrina?
To return to the Danville Shelter–when the economy was good, the Shelter thrived. Now that times are difficult for both two- and four-legged family members the spirit of compassion appears to have disappeared from the PA SPCA mission. It has forgotten that its first logo dog carried a knapsack symbolic of the homeless and his name was “Tramp”. Yet there was room for him–a haven–at the Shelter.
Last year when the PA SPCA joined “mission orange” and adopted no-kill community guidelines, Danville followed. Now dogs and cats need to be quickly adoptable, eliminating all strays. After all, a stray can’t tell the shelter that it has all its shots, what age it is, its training and background. How does a stray audition for an empty cage in the shelter? To be quickly adoptable, according to current Shelter guidelines, the dog cannot be black or over 50 pounds, or middle-aged and must be good with children and other pets, easily walked and have no bad habits or visible health problems. The Danville Shelter has closed its doors to irresponsible owners of un-trained dogs and continues to do nothing to help those pets seeking adoption that have behavior problems. According to a recent news story the Shelter feels that it is being treated like a “dump”, but the challenges in placing pets, and ones newly taken to the Shelter due to the family’s economic problems, are not new–we could see this coming.
Today this large, multi-shelter private Philadelphia-based organization is not just morally broke–it appears to have lost its mission, compassion, and leadership. It is offering one message at the present time–TAKE CATS. Its online newsletter calls for foster homes for kittens and cats –”PSPCA relies on the many dedicated foster volunteers who take nursing moms and abandoned babies home to provide them with round the clock attention,” writes Beth Ann Smith White. However, at our local shelter Roxanne Greiner is quoted as saying, “if the cat has a litter, run an ad offering them free for free” and also “cats are wild. They survive on their own.” Is there a pack leader in Philadelphia and do the rest of the pack know who it is? (The current CEO is reportedly on leave of absence.)
If the Danville shelter wants public funding, either at the county or municipal levels, it must accept local public oversight and control. We know how to live in hard times and we know that compassion is not, and should not be, a stranger.
Apr 05, 2009 | | Uncategorized
As part of my belief in preventative health care, my dogs begin to eat yogurt when they are very young, on the advice of my veterinarian. When the puppies are still on their mother’s breast–about 2 to 3 days of age–I put regular yogurt on the tip of my finger and encourage them to lick it off. It isn’t long before they are avid yogurt consumers, and what is known as “easy keepers”. ( An “easy keeper” walks by a bag of dog food and gains weight!) But, there is always more to learn about feeding our best friends. Recently I found an article on probiotics. I discovered that the probiotic ACIDOPHILUS was best given in the morning while at night BIFIDUS is the probiotic that is most effective. Most yogurts have both. However, the doctor recommended giving the probiotic 15 to 30 minutes before breakfast and l5 to 30 minutes after the evening meal. When determining which product to use, the CFU indicates colony forming units or viability–the expiration date helps with this. Most important it is recommended to give probiotics for the duration of any medication and one to two weeks after medication. Since I have 3 dogs I buy un-flavored low fat plain yogurt with probiotics in a tub.
Have you heard about DSA? Dog Scouts of America. For more information, visit http://www.dogscouts.org
SAFE HARBOR FOR DOGS is a new organization of humane societies formed to shelter large numbers of dogs from commercial kennels in Pennsylvania which are closing or have dogs they do not want. SAFE HARBOR is an alternative to euthanasia or neglect. As I understand it, once the state dog law officer is notified by the commercial kennel of these circumstances, the dogs are transported to appropriate shelters and checked by the PAVMA. Participating groups include the SPCA of Luzerne County, Humane Society of Berks County, Bucks County SPCA, Clearfield County SPCA, the Humane League of Lancaster, and the York County SPCA.
FOR THE HEALTH OF ALL DOGS–A total of $50,000 raised during the Westminster Kennel Club Show was donated to the AKC Canine Health Foundation to study the canine influenza virus, a respiratory disease. The virus first discovered in Greyhound kennels in 2003 affects all dogs and is highly contagious. The funding will attempt to answer who is susceptible, how it is transmitted and how it can be prevented.
MARCH IS GIVE A DOG A KONG MONTH! The PA SPCA is asking for donations of KONGS–those fillable red or black rubber toys for pets of all sizes. They keep pets busy while waiting for a forever home.
I do receive queries about doggy daycare. There are pet sitters who will come into the home and feed, walk and brush a dog two or three times a day. However, I believe what we truly need is “doggy night care”. Especially if a pet is ill, recovering from a procedure or elderly, it would be great to have someone who could give medications, check vital signs and walk or clean up after a pet. The result would be a rested owner and a better quality of life for the whole family. This would be a good occupation for retired vet techs, nurses and caregivers. Call it home hospice care or pet nursing care.
Sources: Canine Chronicle, Pennsylvania Federation of Dog Clubs, the American Kennel Club, the PA SPCA Newsletter.
Mar 21, 2009 | | Uncategorized
Westminster-winning Sussex Spaniel Stump SHOULD have an influence in our area. His victory could help all older pets–both dogs and cats in shelters and rescues–find new homes where they can continue to be young at heart! If you subscribe to Cesar Milan’s newsletter, you read his eloquent defense of older pet adoption and the story of 14-year old“ Daddy. Since our therapy dogs visit nursing homes with senior citizen residents, perhaps the STUMP MESSAGE is that it is time to return the favor–our turn to give them love.
An OLDER DOG HELP LINE staffed by dog lovers and care-givers might keep a dog in his home with his owners a few years longer as well as be a comfort for both pets and their people in times of crisis and loss. They do not belong in shelters.
The Pennsylvania SPCA used to send a certificate of merit to each owner of a senior pet adopted from them. They were suitable for framing and I believe encouraged more owners to adopt older dogs as well as take added pride in a dog they had in the family many, many years. Also, according to Karen Blackledge the Danville shelter has been untouched by the recent turmoil in Philadelphia. She also advises me that in these difficult economic times the shelter will give food to any pet owner who needs food for his companion animals.
House Bill 369 was introduced on Friday the 13th and hasn’t come up for a vote yet. The bill would make it mandatory for every county to set up funding for dog sheltering with an increase in license fees. The shelter money is to be divided among existing humane shelters and if there is none in the county, it will go to the shelter that houses the most county animals. This came as a surprise to me since I was not aware such an account existed and how much was sent to each organization sheltering animals. I wonder if this includes those without a physical building who rely on foster care. The county dog shelter contribution is a 2.50 surcharge added to license fees. I called our county treasurer who thought raising license fees at this time was a bad idea. I then called our president commissioner. He was also against the increase and said he was going to discuss his displeasure with Rep. Millard and Senator Gordner. Then I went the extra mile–to Harrisburg and Jesse Smith, who said she did not believe the Governor would sign such a bill since he had promised not to raise dog license fees. I am sure our shelters and rescues could use financial aid but is this the best way to do it and will it be fair to all?
Last notes: The late Ann Rogers Clark wrote the following about Poodles. “Poodles are Labrador Retrievers with a college education. My Poodle will do anything your Lab will do. After a day in the field your Lab wants to curl up and snore in front of the fire. My Poodle wants to be a fourth at bridge and tell naughty stories.” Watching the last “Dog Whisperer”, I was surprised to hear Cesar Milan referred to as “Behaviorist Cesar Milan”. No degree initials. He doesn’t need them so good for him. Beware of dog trainers who claim a bogus education. Ask for references. Observe classes. What a trainer has done is more important than what they say they are. I have to trust and like the trainer who helps me with my dogs–just as I do my vet. A bad vet and a bad trainer are dangerous to your dog’s health.
WARNING: HSUS has been coming to dog-owning homes and threatening to take away dogs. Ask anyone coming to your home/kennel to see their badge and a search warrant. And, if a TV station approaches you at an event, tell them to call the AKC for comment.
Mar 12, 2009 | | Uncategorized
Autistic students at the Salem Elementary School in Berwick recently participated in a Safe Dog program presented by Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit School Social Worker Bonnie Jaskiewicz. Jaskiewicz is not a member of any dog training or therapy group, nor is she a “dog person” so her concern was targeted to her students and probably a first for the dog bite prevention program. It was also a new audience for the program and one we should all reach out to embrace.
( Perhaps some of you have? If so–please get in touch with Connie Cuff so that I can add you to this great outreach.) The program had as its centerfold the coloring books titled “Teaching Children How To Fall in Love With Dogs Safely”, published by Geisinger, illustrated by Joan Bectal, and authored by me. Jaskiewicz used a puppet to teach lessons to the children and had them act out body postures. She added toy dogs of various breeds and asked the students to describe the dogs, paying attention to ears, height and size of dog, tail, type of coat, etc. The latter was done so that victims could help in describing accurately the offending canine. After all, not all dogs who bite are pit bulls or Rottweilers! Just because a dog is “scary” does not make him dangerous. As we all know, little dogs can bite too! And, of course, she also added a therapy dog (TDI) mixed breed named “Gracie”. Gracie was dressed as an angel so she had a real impact on the children. Gracie has a history of working with special needs and disabled children helping them overcome their fear of dogs.
According to the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, total claims for dog bites are estimated to b e $3 billion and direct medical medical care estimated at $254 M. That should be enough of a stimulus package for us all to make dog bite prevention education part of our dedication to dogs. By the way, children are the primary victims and are bitten on the face, head and neck leading to procedures like skin grafting, scar revision and ear reconstruction.
(The lessons were so successful they are being repeated in the Bloomsburg Area Middle School with students in the Emotional Support and Life Skills classrooms.)
There is a new book on my “must have” list of titles and it will sit right next to “Calming Signals” by Turid Rugaas. It is “Canine Behavior: A Photo Illustrated Handbook” by Barbara Handelman. Organized as a canine behavior reference, this has been heralded as the last word–or rather the last picture (pictures are worth a thousand words) in helping us understand canine behavior. Perhaps a birthday, Father’s Day or Mother’s Day gift? From Amazon it is currently priced in the $30 to $40 range.
H39 needs our input now. According to Julian Prager it needs a thorough language revision to be enforceable and distance it from the farm lobby. H39 deals with ear cropping, tail docking, dew claw removal, debarking and c-sections. No matter how you feel about these procedures we need to have clear and enforceable language in all legislation dealing with our canine concerns. Urge your elected official to study the Pennsylvania Federation H39 revision.
One more request–does anyone know of any dogs who are working local airports in bird control? Again, let Connie know.
Feb 17, 2009 | | Uncategorized
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is inviting the public to a free Humane 101 meeting in Allentown, PA, on February 11th. Its purpose is to make a difference for animals in the Commonwealth–to change, support and affect care and treatment of animals in the public and private sectors. According to promotional materials, HSUS will present ways to create effective materials for local decision makers and media outlets, and to organize friends. Interestingly enough it does not mention the economy and how we can help our shelters, rescues, and private pet and animal owners cope with these difficult times.
Another interesting sign of not understanding how our economy affects pets is the announcement and March introduction of FETCH’ER BALLZ by Planet Friendly. Advertised as the next evolution in dog treats, FETCH’ER BALLZ are an “interactive natural gourmet dog treat that thinks it is a ball.” The ball-shaped treat, designed to be thrown, hidden or rolled, comes in Chicken Stew, Fish and Chips, Fruit and Veggie Medley and Sweet Peanut Butter Crunch. (Meanwhile, new warnings out on chicken jerky treats–DON’T!)
From the last Frei teleconference–across the country dog show entries are down 40 to 50%! Westminster closed with less than its customary 2,500 dogs. A friend from the Morris Animal Foundation who flew into New York to attend the Show made her hotel reservation last July and is paying $400 a night. She gets a discount. I believe you will find the emphasis this year will again be on “real dogs” and not the pampered when Frei takes the microphone. There will be a Tibetan Terrier, though, that fought a Bobcat and lived to bark about it. The owners thought the Terrier would always limp but he surprised everyone, earning his championship and becoming a top twenty contender! Another dog was due to be euthanized because he bit several people. He was rescued, rehabed and will be at Westminster. Frei told us that he gave the dog a big hug when he met him! Frei’s primary interest is in working in the Ronald MacDonald House with his two Brittanys and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel youngster. Lots of therapy dogs at Westminster this year!
Feb 13, 2009 | | Uncategorized
- When Cesar appears on QVC, watch him! Always training people, Cesar can’t help teaching us on any program on which he appears. On his show which aired on Saturday, for example, he cautioned people who would adopt and/or rescue a new pet to approach the shelter situation with high energy. Our energy level forms our decisions and can even impact on our new relationship. In the QVC spirit he did introduce his 3 new treats on the program. A dog’s brain is 60% controlled by the nose he maintains– thus one treat is for exercise (like a power bar), one is for discipline–the filet mignon of treats–and one is for affection or relaxation.
- Then President-Elect Obama referred to George Washington, founder of our nation, in his inaugural address. But, the AKC calls Washington the “Father of Foxhounds”. At one time Washington owned more than 30 Foxhounds with such names as Drunkard, Tipler, and Tipsy!!
- According to Julius Prager, the cropping/tail docking bill is so badly written –with very little provision for record-keeping–that it will be difficult to enforce.
- For those who have Internet access, a great resource for training and behavior problems by Dr. Ian Dunbar may be found at: www.dogstardaily.com
- From a veterinarian: “Adorable mixed breeds get cancer, epilepsy, allergies, heart disease and have orthopedic problems just like purebreds. I see it every day in my practice. But, mixed breeds aren’t tracked like the purebreds so they have a reputation as “healthier” that is actually undeserved in many cases. All animals have a certain amount of genetic load which is to say there is no animal without some sort of genetic problem.” And, writing about Joe Biden’s choice of hobby breeder, she says it was an unfortunate choice but then bad breeders are easy to find because they have a high profile and produce a high volume. And, that brings us to Marley–
“Marley and Me” is coming to Susquehanna Valley libraries billed as “read across the valley”. Beware. The fall event is supposed to culminate in a parade. The stakeholders in this event are not Labrador Retrievers and dog owners but the author and his publisher. Add Purina and pet supply stores to the profit mix. Who benefits? We already have too many mixed-breed dogs that have Labrador in their gene pool. The difference between the puppy in training for shelter life and a happy dog is TRAINING. Valley dog lovers, kennel clubs and training organizations must control the message. Veterinarians, groomers, trainers, and rescue adoption teams must step up and be part of the dialogue. This is not the time for a parade. A parade is entertainment. With so many dogs suffering with their owners through these hard economic times–we need dog training, owner education and not entertainment in the form of promoting canine misbehavior to sell books. Marley must not be welcome in this part of Pennsylvania! If Marley appears in your library make sure there are other books there too–and magazines and handouts. There is a great deal of free information from the American Kennel Club, the American Veterinary Medical Association and local groups that could change and save live
Feb 05, 2009 | | Uncategorized
There is an almost reliable rumor that retired Danville veterinarian George Leighow danced at an inaugural bowl–a bit of area veterinary history! And, of course, the same rumor mill relates that retired veterinarian Don Kamsler attended an inauguration as a member of VMAT to care for our four-legged security.
This icy weather brings out the neighborhood. I recently received a call about a horse that wanders because the owner thinks it is too cold to fix its fence. So far the 34-year-old horse has been fed water-soaked bagels by compassionate neighbors. They expect to see him on their decks next at the bird feeders. But, before that happens Elmer Golla heard about the Catawissa bagel-eating horse and dropped off hay. Then there is the Newfoundland kennel, which is another sad story. I asked Sally Grottini if Newfoundlands are prone to bark a great deal and she said, “only if people throw things at them and yell at them”. So what kind of neighbors complain about noisy Newfies? In these difficult economic times we need more than ever to look after our neighbors, both two- and four- legged. Other parts of the country have set up pet food banks so people do not have to make choices. Like all “free-to a good home” situations, rules and an interview might slow a rush to bad judgment on the part of those of us who perhaps are apt to be too “animal-kind” . Do call me if I can get you references from groups who are now deeply involved in these ventures.
The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association recently included an article on the effects of dog-appeasing pheromones on anxiety and fear in puppies during training, and on long-term socialization. Dog-appeasing pheromones are abbreviated in the scientific literature as DAP. The group of puppies wearing DAP collars showed an effective and significant difference in learning. The authors theorized that this was due to a reduction in anxiety and fear in the training situation. Fear was defined as any display of avoidance or retreat, submissive urination, or physical posture of fear in response to new stimuli, environments, dogs or people. A behavior problem was defined as anything the owner perceived of as such. This could be an actual behavior problem (e.g., aggression, separation anxiety, fear or phobia) or other behavior that was unacceptable to the owner (e.g., barking, house soiling or unruly behavior). Although the DAP collars worked to lessen excitability and fear, the authors agreed that attending puppy classes and training with positive reinforcement was important to maintaining and improving the bond.
It is important to remember that this study’s subjects consisted only of puppies. Would–will–DAP be an effective aid in older dogs with behavior problems? Defining the population is important. I would venture that most older dogs are spayed and neutered. Intact dogs could give different responses. For instance, how would DAP effect a cycling bitch or an intact male?
In the next BLOG–Marley should not be welcome in our area!!
Jan 26, 2009 | | Uncategorized
A PETA ad in this month’s DOG FANCY magazine offers the new puppy owner A FREE GIFT BAG. The bag is a body bag, and is being offered to remind readers not to buy a puppy when you can adopt one. Could this be called body bag journalism?
More Grinch news from Penn State. The shortage of veterinarians trained to care for large animals is dangerously low and may impact global health. That applies to reindeer too.
The Eukanuba Best in Show winner was appropriately “seasonal”. A pointer known as Holly won the big California show. Holly’s registered name is Cookieland Seasyde Hollyberry. And, yes she was here at the Bloomsburg shows on the Fairgrounds. (Do remember that Holly is not only preventing other champions from being the top dog in 2008–the real holly is poisonous to your dog’s health.) The late Dick Johns, Benton, would have been delighted with Holly’s success although he favored the German Shorthaired Pointer and Holly is an English Pointer– lemon in color. At the Johns estate sale I purchased a three-foot-high trophy with 3 pointers gleaming with pride–one of those dogs depicted was named “Flash Back Mac”. Dog names were stronger in those days. Maybe this year I will polish the name plates and learn more about our local hunting greats. A local winner at the by-invitation-only Eukanuba agility trials was the O’Neill’s “Gy”, Bloomsburg. Gy is the number one Petite Bassett Vendeen Griffon in agility in the country.
Another notable 2008 winner was “Merci”, who is the brother of the famous Sealyham known as ”Charmin’”. The non-sporting group winner was a Standard Poodle who answers to the name “Yes”. A wonderful name for any dog. Most puppies grow up thinking their name is “No”.
My favorite English Springer, Jesse James, was there, too. There has been talk of having James sire a litter with Hepburn as dam. I believe, however, there would be too much attitude in the Carpenter whelping box!
As 2008 winds down one of the big stories that will impact needy animals in our area is the announcement that the Pennsylvania SPCA has been awarded the Philadelphia animal control contract. This means that beginning on January 1, ACT –the Animal Control Team–will begin lifesaving services in the city. ACT is committed to the No Kill Solutions’ Animal Protection Act or CAPA. The object is to turn Philadelphia into a no-kill city. Many of our local rescues had their origins in the belief that the Pennsylvania SPCA in Danville was not a no kill shelter, and had no no-kill policy. With the passage of the new dog law in 2008 it will be interesting to see if this is indeed fact or fiction and how the largest humane organization in the Commonwealth meets its obligations. They have already earned all dog lovers’ respect by adding both a dog trainer and a forensic veterinarian to their already impressive staff.
To report unsatisfactory conditions at a kennel confidentially or if a kennel is suspected of being illegal, call the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s toll-free hotline at 1-877-DOG-TIP1.
The Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show judge will be Sari Brewster Tiejen. Tiejen has been an active member of the Dog Writers Association of America since 1976 and is one of the few journalists to have this honor. (Previous journalists include the late famed Maxwell Riddle [newspapers] and Dr. Josephine Deubler, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, who has the honor of being the first woman veterinarian in the country.)
Jan 18, 2009 | | Uncategorized
The Grinch who causes our dogs gastrointestinal distress is once again rearing its melamine head! This time melamine has been discovered in biscuits made by Wonderfarm, which is part of the Interfood Shareholding Co. No information on what other brand names the biscuits may be sold under or who is part of Interfood Shareholding. But, doesn’t Wonderfarm remind one of the brand name “Wonder Bread”? Also, there have been reports of death from potpourri. This seems to be a new danger and it is fatal. And, there is an ongoing concern about chicken jerky. Most of the jerky in question seems to be sold at WalMart. Two names that fill me with caution lately are Hartz and WalMart. Hope your veterinary hospital has posted a warning about both dangers?
Sometimes I wonder if we appreciate how unique the Central Pennsylvania area is in the history of animal caring. It is with pride that we point to Dennis Wolff, Millville, the Commonwealth Secretary of Agriculture, who along with Governor Rendell helped to change the title of Pennsylvania as the “Puppy Mill Capitol”. If he does succeed in his effort to become our next U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, our small animals, our companion animals, will have a voice equal to that of livestock on the national scene. Also in the spirit of animal rescue and evacuation during disasters we must look at such practicing veterinarians as Dr. Larry Smith, Orangeville, who leads the Columbia/Montour Animal Response Team. Smith took on this new organization after post-Katrina rescuers would not allow a little white dog to join evacuating owners on a bus. His relentless efforts have truly made the local team one of the top responders in the state. The local CART began giving out pet alert wallet cards so no pets need be left behind and now county aging agencies are using them to help elderly pet owners too. Two men to be proud of.
It is said that each valley in Pennsylvania has its own climate. If this is true then ours is a climate of compassion toward all living things. Let us hope it will be part of the change in Washington.
For football fans the most famous sculpture is of course the Heisman. Now all pet owners have a statue to commemorate the greatness of the connection between owners and their companion animals. Titled “Connections”, the work marks the response of evacuation and rescue that came about after Katrina. It depicts a woman offering water to a thirsty cat and dog. The sculpture took Kentucky sculptor Meg White three years to complete and stands in the Garden of Serenity on the campus of Louisiana State University. It rivals in importance the sculptures of the DOGS9/11 in New York city honoring those dogs who worked after the towers disaster. “Connections” also marks feline companionship. Sometimes we forget that cats, too, cross the Rainbow Bridge and wait for their owners.
Jan 11, 2009 | | Uncategorized
The Biden family has chosen a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder. The one-month-old puppy will make its family debut after the inauguration. The breed is synonymous with courage, bringing to mind images such as the famous “Rin Tin Tin” as well as the “Dogs of 9/11″.
The puppy is being trained by its Chester County, PA breeder. According to the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviorists, puppies should begin socialization training between 7 and 8 weeks of age–before their vaccinations are complete–which should have the newest Biden family member well schooled for inauguration press coverage. (More dogs are euthanized due to behavioral problems than infectious diseases.)
Two of the most famous German Shepherds have been named for cities–Manhattan and Dallas– which makes one wonder if the puppy could be named “Scranton”!
One of the saddest Christmas stories I have ever read was written by the late, great Collie breeder, Albert Payson Terhune. Titled “The Christmas Pup”, it’s the story of a collie puppy that was killed on Christmas eve after it had bitten a child when its tail was pulled the child. A finger scratch from tiny milk teeth–and the pup’s lifeless body ended up in the trash along with unwanted gift wrap, labeled a “dangerous” dog. For these children the puppy was a toy that yelped when its tail was pinched. It’s feeble defense earned it the label “dangerous dog”.
Christmas toys can be dangerous and provoke aggression between children and puppies. The path to canine adulthood has always been dangerous. First, there is no monitoring of puppy toys as there are children’s toys. No one checks them for safety yet puppies taste and chew. Just recently a study on the toothbrush-shaped dental toys revealed that small dogs are most at risk from these chew aids. Small dogs especially (we can substitute puppies) may require surgery in order to free fragments from the gastrointestinal tract. There is a high mortality rate from the surgery (JAVMA, Vol. 232, 2008).
The squeaking puppy, the squeaking puppy toy also provokes a dangerous prey response. In the case of the puppy the toy is ripped to shreds, much to the delight of those watching and the aggression response receives reinforcement. If the toy belongs to a child the game becomes defensive and the victim is not just a plush plaything but the child. Thus, the first bite can occur over a toy and under a Christmas tree. The toy becomes too valuable– the game becomes too competitive for safe play.
Rachel Ray has a great recipe for macaroni and cheese named for her late Pit Bull, “Isaboo”, who loved buttered butternut squash. I have been looking for a mac and cheese recipe that is low salt and flavorful–one that is similar to the Kraft version but healthy. This one is easy. Brown grated onion in olive oil and butter and add 3 Tbsp. flour to form a paste. Mix in 2 cups of low sodium chicken broth, a package of defrosted butternut squash, and a cup of half and half. Stir until thickened. Add 2 cups of ground or shredded cheddar, a half cup of parmesan cheese and a sprinkling of nutmeg. Mix with a pound of ridged macaroni cooked a la dente. (I haven’t shared it yet with the Springer ladies since I am enjoying it first.)
BLUE DOG, the American Veterinary Medical Association-endorsed dog bite prevention program, includes a toy warning for dog toys that make a noise meant to trigger reactive or protective behavior. Noiseless toys received their approval. They might go one step further and place warning labels on toys that should only be played with with parental guidance. Further, the well-known dog trainer, Cesar Millan, would go another step–eliminate sounds and impregnate toys with scents to maximize puppy enjoyment. He points out that the first sense in a newborn is smell and the puppy will search for pleasurable odors. It is important to emphasize that a recall of dog toys can well be a major recall of the puppy himself!
There are other dangers in “growing up puppy”. Puppy vaccinations before 8 weeks of age need to be discussed with a veterinarian and the breeder. Early socialization and puppy kindergarten are both now high on the list of recommendations of the veterinary behaviorists association. It is also important to remember that our new dog law mandates small crating area until the age of a year or when the puppy is considered an adult. This provision allows pet stores and commercial breeders to restrict place and keep a maximum number of puppies in small areas. Isn’t it wonderful to know that although a puppy is small as we weigh and measure size– puppy love is infinitely enormous, forgiving. Freely we receive. Freely we must give.
Dec 21, 2008 | | Uncategorized