Tuesday True Story -- Believe it: The story of a dog named Ripley

Here is a story from the Orlando Sentinel about a dog that was discovered and saved.  Enjoy!


Believe it or not, this picture is of a dog.

The poodle was found in a ditch in Houma, La., with hair so matted that he couldn’t walk. He was taken in by My Heart’s Desire, a local animal-rescue group, given a shave and a name — Ripley.
“You would have never believed there was a dog under there,” says Tracey Lapeyrouse, co-founder of the shelter. “He looked like the elephant man. All you could see was his snout.”
Enter Orlando-based Ripley’s Entertainment Inc., which is making a $400 donation to the shelter and will give a gift card to Ripley’s future family for pet-related expenses.
“Ripley the dog is what Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is all about,” says Tim O’Brien, vice president  of communications. “It’s unbelievable that a dog could even be in this condition, let alone survive and go on to potentially become a great pet for someone.”

Ripley, after

The company’s connection with animals goes back as far as founder Robert Ripley, who once had a one-eyed dog named Cyclops. So it’s not hard to imagine that Ripley the dog’s story is being considered for an upcoming Believe It or Not book.

Tuesday True Stories -- Therapy Dogs

Image via Wikipedia

 Here is a post I found online at USAtoday.com.  I am reposting it here because I believe that therapy animals do not get enough publicity and they do not get enough credit for what they do.

Dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, etc. can and have been helping humans deal with obstacles and setbacks for eons.  We have finally evolved enough that we are able to recognize all of their myriad contributions to our collective well-being.  I hope you enjoy the article and click over to finish reading the post.  If you do, leave them a comment with your thoughts on the subject, won't you.

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True stories of heroic dogs

By Janice Lloyd, USA TODAY

We asked readers in November to tell us about pets that made a difference in 2009, and the response proved there are pet heroes everywhere. We learned about dogs and cats that comfort the sick and struggling, a dog that saved his owner's life, a canine surfer that raises money for the disabled, and many more.

A golden Labrador is a treasure for this child and her family

BETHESDA, Md. — Will Buchanan walks several steps behind his toddler at the Children's Inn at the National Institutes of Health.

Getting around is challenging for 22-month-old Haley. She has Joubert syndrome, a disease that affects balance and muscle coordination. She uses a tiny walker and wears a harness, which her dad is holding to keep her upright.

PAW PRINT POST: Heartwarming tales of readers' pet heroes

Suddenly they both smile. A big yellow dog lying in the hallway is wagging its tail at Haley. Ever so gently, her dad guides Haley to the floor to sit beside the dog. And ever so gently, Haley reaches out for the dog's muzzle. "Dog," she says. The dog stretches out a paw and touches Haley's leg.

"We have two German shepherds at home (in Dallas, N.C.), so she's really happy to see this dog," says Haley's mother, Laura Buchanan. "This makes it easier for us."

Viola, a golden Labrador, belongs to the Children's Inn, a private, non-profit residence on the NIH campus where families whose chronically ill children are being treated at NIH can stay. Mars Inc. donated Vi to the inn in 2008 after she was retired as a Seeing Eye dog. The kids can spend time alone with Vi and attend special activities with her.

"Having a dog here helps the children relax, feel more at home, and makes their treatments more bearable," says Meredith Carlson Daly, media relations coordinator at the inn. "There have been many studies done showing how beneficial animal therapy can be. We see those benefits here every day."

Tracy Wilcox knows how hard it was for her 9-year-old daughter, Breana, before Vi arrived. Breana has been getting treatments at NIH since she was 2½. She missed nearly 70 days of school last year while dealing with high fevers and chronic pain from an autoimmune inflammatory disorder. Her black Lab, Midnight, comforts her at home, Wilcox says. "He's more in tune with knowing when she's getting sick than I am."

Traveling to NIH from Boston has been stressful, says Wilcox, because Breana has to leave her dog behind. Last June, she got very upset in the airport until her mother surprised her: "I told her the inn had gotten a dog," Wilcox says. "She stopped crying right away.

"After her treatments, she'll go back to the inn, get on the floor with Vi and tell Vi all about what happened with the doctors. And it's rough stuff. When she gets home, she sits on the floor and tells Midnight all about Vi."As a parent, Vi saved us," Wilcox says. "She took away all my daughter's angst. She's gone from hating herself and her disease to looking forward to going back to the inn and getting well."

Spreading good news about Pit Bulls

When Amy Murphy first saw him in May 2008, she cried. His ribs were exposed, his skin was full of cuts and scars and matted with dirt and fleas, his throat had crush injuries and his back left leg was mangled by an infected bite.

SURVEY: Where do people get their pets?

But as much as this pit bull was suffering, he also had love in his eyes, Murphy says.Murphy volunteers for the North Mecklenburg Animal Rescue in Harrisburg, N.C. She got Gunny to a vet after getting him from a shelter several hours away a week before he was set to be euthanized.

She recalls that after the vet examined the dog, she said to Murphy, "Isn't he beautiful? He has scars that will never go away, but he smiles, he wags and he loves us strangers without a second thought. No matter what we did to him, he just loved us. I'm sure he's going to be an ambassador"

Murphy thinks Gunny was a "bait dog" in a dog-fighting ring. Bait dogs are chained and allowed to be attacked by other dogs. He had several surgeries. His back left leg was amputated, yet he is thriving in her home and in the community. Murphy says he taught people about "compassion and perseverance."

When word spread about his vet bills, the community helped raise money. Grade school students would send Murphy several dollars, promising to send more money. He became the official mascot in the Charlotte area for an educational program sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States designed to teach children and young adults that pit bulls are not fighting dogs. "Celebrate your Pit Bull" trains 13- to 22-year-olds to teach dogs obedience, agility and other positive behaviors.

Gunny's resilience stole hearts. Guyla Vardell, principal at Lebanon Road Elementary School in Charlotte, says the 800 students at her school love Gunny. He has appeared at "character assemblies" at the school. "He has captured the imaginations of our students, staff, families and friends," says Vardell. "He is one in a million."

Saved from a shelter, so he gives of himself

Brown Bear's days were numbered. He was in a high-kill shelter until Lucky Dog Animal Rescue of Washington, D.C., relocated and placed the large mixed-breed dog with a big family. His extended family totals 168 residents at the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Sandy Grove, Md. He's been there for two months, joining another dog, two cats and several birds.

"Bear is a doll," says Sue Goldstone, Brooke Grove's quality assurance coordinator. "He intuitively knew how to behave around our residents, some of whom are fragile."

Bear is a big help to people with dementia, she says: "They can often get agitated, but putting them with Bear calms them down."

Goldstone says she's grateful Lucky Dog granted his adoption to them. "We feel very fortunate to have him. The residents have company every minute of every day. Life is enhanced by the ability to walk through a building and to be able to pet a dog's muzzle or snuggle a cat."

And what better place for a dog, she adds, considering the center is on 220 acres. "Dogs that live and work here have the full run of the place. They learn how to use the elevators and get around like anyone else."

Saves his owner's life

The way Thelma Portocales tells it, she thought her husband, George, was sleeping beside her at home in bed. But that's not what Oscar, their dachshund-schnauzer, was telling her.

Thelma had taken her hearing aid out for the night and didn't hear Oscar barking at first. But bark Oscar did. Bark, and bark, and bark.

"I still thought George was right beside me in bed when Oscar came up right alongside me and barked until I got up," she says. "He led me towards the bathroom, so I went into it and turned the light on. I said, 'Look, there's nothing wrong.' But Oscar walked farther into the bathroom and stood beside George."

Her husband of 30 years had passed out. She called 911. Medics revived him and rushed him to the hospital. Later they told her Oscar probably saved George's life. He suffered no permanent damage from the cardiac episode and was released from the hospital after four days.

"If it hadn't been for Oscar, he probably wouldn't have made it," Thelma says. "Oscar is precious. George gives him special treatment every day. He just can't get enough of him."

He's a first dog for the Millsboro, Del., couple. Great timing: They adopted Oscar from the Delaware SPCA on Aug. 8. George collapsed Sept. 4.

To read the rest of the stories please click here.

D.C. Dog Shooting and the Need for a Canine Force Continuum

I seem to have fallen off the wagon when it comes to posting here on my blog.  I went on vacation and apparently never returned.  Anyway, I have recommitted myself to keeping Satchmo's blog updated regularly and in that vein I am posting an article about a dog shooting in D.C.. 


As a pet owner, I am offended by the unnecessary use of guns by police when dealing with stray or loose dogs.  Most dogs are pets.  Most dogs have a family that loves them.  Most dogs respond to verbal commands.  In those incidents where verbal commands don't work, either due to excitement or fear, then I believe that officers need to really have to be critical in determining threat.  I believe that a dog should not be shot unless that is the absolute last resort--like the dog in lunging in the air at the officer.  Shooting first and figuring out the situation last is totally unacceptable.  In most of these incidents, there are people around and the very real possibility of secondary damage to them is present.  Just because you have a gun doesn't mean you can use it whenever you want to.

Here is the article from Change.org:


by Ledy VanKavage  
September 16, 2010  
06:28 AM
 

Last weekend, at the Adams Morgan festival in Washington, D.C., a dog named Parrot got into an altercation with a poodle. The caretakers had broken up the fight when police arrived on the scene. According to witnesses and photographs, the officer pinned Parrot to the ground with his knee, then hurled him down a concrete stairwell, and finally pulled out his weapon and shot him. Given that photographs showed he had the dog contained, isn't this a likely case of excessive force?
And it's far from being the only one. Thousands of dogs are gunned down each year by police officers. Canine shootings have to stop. We have a force continuum that sets guidelines for how much force may be used in situations involving humans, so why not one for canines?
It's not always just the dogs who are in danger. In early September, for example, a Michigan animal anti-cruelty officer was shot by a Detroit police officer while responding to a complaint of dogs running loose. The officer shot and killed a pit-bull-type dog whose only offense had been running at large; the anti-cruelty officer was wounded in the process.  [...read more here...]

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Tuesday True Stories -- Police launch investigation into federal officer who shot animal at dog park in Severn

This is a sad story about what happens to dogs when humans, who should exercise better judgment, carry guns and use them to settle problems.  We do not live in the Wild West anymore; this person could just have easily missed and killed a child or some other dog at this public park. 

Let me know what you think about this, won't you?
This is from an article from ABC News Channel 2 out of Baltimore, Md.  Please visit that site and leave them your thoughts on the issue.


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Posted: 08/04/2010
Last Updated: 7 hours and 41 minutes ago
SEVERN, Md. - Pet owners come to Quail Run Dog Park in Severn to let their dogs run free and to frolic with other canines, but when the play turned rough between Bear Bear, a Siberian Husky, and a German Shepherd, the shepherd’s owner resorted to gun fire.
"He fired... and the impact sound and everything, I asked him later cause I went closer to to Bear Bear. I asked if that was a Taser. I looked back at him, "Was that a Taser?" He said, "No. That's 9 millimeter. I hit him in the rear. I don't see any blood. I think he's going to be okay," and just calm about it," said Stephen Kurinij, who was watching the dog for his sister and brother-in-law.
Later, Bear Bear’s owners, Ryan and Rachel Reitaliata, would learn the pistol-packing owner was a Department of Defense employee out of Fort Myer in Virginia.
"Personally, I don't believe this man should carry a weapon any longer,” said Rachel, “He doesn't deserve a gun. He doesn't know how to be responsible with a fire arm."
The unidentified federal police officer also underestimated the bullet’s impact.
Doctors at an emergency animal hospital told the Husky’s owner they were helpless to save Bear Bear.
The bullet had pierced several internal organs.
"There was just no way he was going to live, so they administered the euthanizing solution and he went down easy and soft,” said Ryan Reitaliata, “Afterwards we got to spend time with him for the last five minutes."
Anne Arundel County Police dismissed the shooting until County Executive John Leopold stepped in demanding an investigation.
"I'm a dog owner. I have a black lab named 'Dora'. I would be outraged, deeply saddened, if this happened to my dog," said Leopold.
Even now, as police pledge to re-open the case, it appears their delayed reaction has complicated matters.
"At this time we are not aware of any other witnesses," said Anne Arundel County Police Chief James Teare, Sr.
But within five minutes of arriving at the dog park, we had found one.
"All I heard was like dogs going like, "Rrrrrrrrrr". When I turned around, I guess the dog owner, the cop, he didn't try to stop the dog. He just said, "Stop!" one time and then "Pow!"---shot the dog," said Steffon Nelson of Severn.
It also appears a number of children looked on as the fatal shot echoed through the park taking Bear Bear’s life.
The DOD gunman told police that the husky attacked his dog and then tried to bite him.
He claims he shot the dog fearing for his safety and that of his wife and dog.

Tuesday True Stories -- Fatal Puppy Hit-and-Run Offender Caught

Here is a story I found on Petside.com.  This is so sad, but I am glad that the offender was caught.  Please read this story and remember what to do if you see this happening.  Please visit the site of this story and leave them a comment, but leave me a comment also, won't you?
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I don't get it! I just can't get my head wrapped around how people blatantly and thoughtlessly leave the scene of an auto accident. What makes me even more upset is when a pet is injured in an accident.
Apparently, according to an article, recently published on the ASPCA website, Rafael Lauda struck Gigi, a five month-old Pit Bull puppy and drove away, not bothering to provide any information to Gigi's distraught owner. Unfortunately, Gigi died at a nearby animal hospital from her fatal injuries.

However, shortly after the incident, the ASPCA was notified and started an immediate investigation. The ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement agents were able to arrest Lauda on several charges, including leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury to an animal, and driving with a suspended license. If found guilty, Lauda could be facing over a year in jail.
Dr. Robert Reisman, ASPCA Medical Coordinator of Animal Cruelty Cases gives some excellent advice for people who observe an animal struck by a car. "Regardless of how serious the injuries appear, any animal hit by a car needs immediate attention. Internal injuries may not be visible, but in all instances may be life-threatening."
He also cautions, "Because you may further aggravate a serious injury while moving an injured animal, he or she should be carefully placed on a board, or at the very least, a blanket, and carefully but quickly transported to the closest animal hospital. If there is external bleeding, apply pressure to the wound to limit loss of blood."
The ASPCA urges people walking their dogs to be cautious when crossing a street. They suggest that extension leashes not be used in heavily trafficked areas.
If you witness animal cruelty in New York City, call (877) THE-ASPCA. Outside of New York City, visit their FAQ information by visiting http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=cruelty_faq
Have you ever witnessed an episode of animal cruelty? How did you handle it? Leave a comment about your experience.

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Pet Travel tips from DogTimes Weekly

 Here is an article from DogTimes Weekly, a site filled with wonderful information about dogs and how to be a great dog friend.  With summer in full swing, I know that many people are contemplating traveling with their pet, so I felt this article to be both informative and timely.  Please visit the site after reading because they have articles about anything and everything "dog".

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With pet-friendly hotels, cabins, and resort spots popping up all over the map, traveling with your best friend has never been easier. But while jetting off without planning in advance sounds romantic, it can cause sticky situations if your dog is along for the ride.

Practice first

In any endeavor, practice makes perfect. Your angel of a dog could turn into a devil in transit if you embark on a lengthy trip without preparing properly. But with a little advance work, you can help your pup learn to take travel in stride.

• Acclimate your dog to his carrier or crate. Set the carrier up in the comfort of home well in advance, to help your dog view it as a safe and familiar den that's just his. Be sure the carrier's big enough so your dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Stick to day trips at first. This is especially helpful for a puppy who hasn't been away from home much. A Saturday visit to an unfamiliar locale can help your dog get used to exploring new terrain and meeting new people.
• Try an overnight trip next. Once he's used to short journeys, arrange to spend a night with a friend or relative, or go to a pet-friendly hotel. This will introduce your dog to a variety of potentially anxiety-producing situations, such as sleeping in a new place, meeting strangers, and dealing with the odd noises of a different household or a hotel.

Prepare your dog for a lengthy trip

Whether you're setting out via plane, ship, or automobile, take these steps first to prevent problems while you and your dog are away from home:
1. See your veterinarian. Make sure your dog is in good health, is up-to-date on shots, and has enough of any needed medications for the trip. Depending on the destination, the vet may suggest additional vaccinations. For example, if travel involves hiking in the woods, the vet could advise a shot for Lyme disease.
2. Get a health certificate from your vet. This verifies that your dog's in good condition, and it may be required by some airlines, hotels, or doggie daycare locations in other cities.
3. Talk to the vet about sedatives. These are most important if your pet has had travel anxiety in the past, but you may choose to use them as a precautionary measure. However, your vet may advise against them for airplane travel.
4. Try any new sedatives or medications before you leave. Check to see if your dog has any allergic reactions that require a vet visit.
5. Ask your vet about a microchip. If your dog doesn't have one already, you may want one as a safeguard against losing him permanently in an unfamiliar place.
6. Know the rules at your destination. For instance, to bring a dog across the border to Mexico, the health certificate must be dated within two weeks of the travel date. Most such certificates will remain valid for 30 days, to cover bringing the dog back into the U.S. at the end of your trip.
7. Research dog-walking routes in advance. Remember, dogs are creatures of routine, and yours will need that daily walk no matter where your vacation spot is--plus he'll enjoy the adventure of new outings.
Bottom line: Pet-friendly accommodations make it possible to travel widely with your dog--but regulations and requirements mean it's crucial to plan all the details first.

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Things have gotten rather busy around here

Sorry I haven't posted for a while, but it really got busy at my home.  Austen was sick last weekend with fever, diarrhea and lethargy.  He was sick most of the weekend and I was ready to take him to the vet when I got off work Sunday, but he perked up and got an appetite.  Must have been the Pepto Bismol!  Anyway, he was back to his old self by Monday morning, so I was pleased. 

Then this week, Satchmo got sick with pretty much the same symptoms.  I didn't wait around with him because he is 12 and because he dehydrates really fast with diarrhea.  So, off to the vet Thursday.  He is now on a bland diet with probiotic powder on top of it.  He also is taking Flagyl which makes me shudder, but he seems to have no ill effects from it.  Today, he seems to be almost himself again, so I guess it is working.

The outside cats are doing well, and I have wormed them in the canned food I feed at night.  They eat just about anything I put out there, so that has not been hard.  They look better and are really shiny black.  The female, Ditto, had kittens and I managed to catch them only to discover that the kids around here had broken the front leg of the little black one, so I had it put to sleep.  The other one is a black and white female and she is a pistol.  She has been in the house in a cage for a week and she still hisses and spits, but I don't have to wear gloves to pick her up.  She has recently begun purring when I take her out to hold her, so I think she will come around.  I got her wormed and her shots started and next week I will take her back for a repeat.  When she is old enough I will get her spay and then I will find her a really good home.

So, I have been up to my eyeballs in animals for a while now, but I wouldn't change that at all.  I'm glad that the dogs feel better and I hope this kitten finds a great home when she is ready.  I plan to talk to my neighbor about helping me trap the two cats to get them shots and fixed soon.

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Thursday's issues --Your Dog's Medicine Cabinet

Everyone who owns a pet needs to stock certain items for pet emergencies.  Usually, if your pet gets sick, it will almost always be in the night, on the weekend, or on a holiday.  You will need to learn some type of pet First Aid and have a first aid kit for your pets.  You need to educate yourself on signs and symptoms of pet illness and what you can do to help. 

Here is an article I found that lists some of the items you need to have on hand:
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Your Dog's Medicine Cabinet

By: Dr. Amy Wolff

Hydrogen peroxide should be in every dog's medicine cabinet.

For Minor Illnesses
Most of us keep a variety of medicines at home for those occasions when we are sick or injured, but did you know there are some important medicines to keep on hand if your dog is not well? Here are some of the commonly used items you should have on hand in your dog's medicine chest. Be sure to check with your veterinarian before giving any medicines to your dog.

3% Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide should be in every dog's medicine cabinet. Although most commonly thought of as a way to clean a wound, another important use is to induce vomiting when your dog has ingested toxins, foreign objects, drugs or spoiled food. However, check with your veterinarian first because there are times when it is best not to induce vomiting. Dogs won't drink peroxide willingly so buy an oral dose syringe or keep a turkey baster on hand to help administer the liquid. Also check the expiration date; expired peroxide is not as effective.

Diphenhydramine

Benadryl® (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine that is commonly used for itching and allergic reactions. Dogs that have had a bee sting, insect bite or vaccination reaction often need a dose of Benadryl® to calm itchiness, facial swelling or hives. The dose is based on your dog's weight, so check with your veterinarian; he or she can tell you how much Benadryl® you can give and how often.

Pepto-Bismol/Kaopectate

Every dog owner knows about vomiting, diarrhea and gas. Sometimes a dose of Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate can solve a mild case of stomach or intestinal upset. However, Pepto-Bismol contains salicylates, the active ingredient in aspirin, so dogs that are aspirin sensitive should be given Kaopectate. Any vomiting or diarrhea that persists for more than 24 hours needs your veterinarian's attention. Be sure to mention if you have given any Pepto-Bismol to your dog; the tablet form of Pepto-Bismol looks just like a quarter on X-rays.

Triple Antibiotic Ointment

Topical antibacterial ointment is great for superficial wounds, such as cuts and scratches. It works best when the wound is located where the dog can't lick it since most dogs will lick off any salve you apply. It is not a good treatment for deep wounds, especially if they are dirty or bleeding, or the result of a bite. These need veterinary attention.

Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol is often a good drying agent for ears. Many dogs that have recurring ear infections can use a solution of alcohol mixed with vinegar to dry up a wet ear. Alcohol should never be used in an ear that is inflamed or infected, or on a wound, as it burns when applied to damaged tissues. It can also be used in cases where your dog is overheated. Heat stroke is a life threatening situation that requires immediate veterinary attention, but alcohol applied to the pad of your dog's feet can provide some cooling while you are getting your pet to the vet.

Bandages and Tape

It can be challenging to bandage a bleeding wound on your pet. Most often an old sock and electrical tape are cleverly used as bandages when an emergency arises. Keep a pack of clean or sterile gauze and some medical tape handy. Most bleeding wounds require pressure and tape will help keep the gauze in place.

Oral Dose Syringe/Pill Gun/Pill Splitter

Your veterinarian can supply you with a handy little item called a pill gun. It is a long plastic tube with a plunger used to deliver pills to our less cooperative friends. Some dogs just aren't fooled by that little meatball with the pill in the middle. The pill gun keeps you from having to stick your hand/fingers into your dog's mouth when medicating him. An oral dose syringe will help you give liquid medications accurately. A pill splitter will help you cut large tablets into equal portions if your pet requires a smaller dose.

Having these medications on hand is only half the job. Calling your pet's doctor for proper instructions and potential side effects is the other. Never give your pet any medicine prescribed for people unless instructed by your veterinarian.

Please visit the site for more information about pet health.

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Tuesday True Stories -- Dog survives desert ordeal

Dog survives desert ordeal

A small dog lost in the desert for nearly six weeks is back home again, a little skinnier for the experience but otherwise healthy.

Tamara Martin of Beaver Dam said TJ, a rat terrier/chihuahua mix belonging to her extended family, ran away from the veterinarian’s kennel in Mesquite on May 7. The dog had been let out into an enclosed yard for exercise, but managed to get through the fence.


“We forgot to tell them TJ is an escape artist,” said Barbara Lefler, Tamara’s grandmother who cares for the dog. “He just took off.”

The veterinarian’s staff hunted for hours for the dog, than called the family the next morning. The family and friends began searching, but they too were unsuccessful.

“We kept looking, put up posters, asked people to look,” Tamara said.

She did get calls that TJ had been spotted, but no one was able to get near the little dog.
“At first he was hanging out by the new houses they’re building on Hardy Way,” said Tamara.
Then for a while, she received no reports about the missing dog.

“After a couple of weeks, people said, ‘You might as well give up,’” she said. “It was hot, over 100 degrees, and there’s no water out there. And then there’s the foxes and the coyotes.”

But she said the family didn’t want to give up.

“We would still drive up there looking for him,” she said. “He’s been part of our family for four years. My aunt, Julie (Lefler) took a lot of time off to go looking for him.”

Barbara said another family dog, Chiquito, clearly missed TJ.

“He’d be sitting on the arm of my chair looking out the window,” she said. “When he heard other dogs bark, he’d go crazy, thinking it was TJ.”

The loss of the dog was especially difficult for Tamara’s daughter, Chyanne, 11, who was close to TJ [...read more...]

Tuesday's True Stories -- Rescue Poodles

Here is a wonderful story about a rescued poodle from beginning life with a hoarder.  This is an uplifting story and one that deserves to be read.  Rescue dogs are well worth the trouble and return so much love and loyalty.  Enjoy Remy's story.

Remy's Story

The news of the 75 rescue poodles in Duchesne County, Utah was well publicized in June 2009. The poodles were victims of an animal hoarder.
This is the story of how one of those rescue poodles came into my life...

In June 2008, I was returning home to Kansas City from a week long cruise to Mexico with my daughters. Within days of our return I received life changing news that my decade long career in the home building industry had been terminated. I was one of the thousands of casualties of the downturn in the housing market.
Hundreds of miles away in Duchesne County, Utah, a tiny black poodle was being born into horrific conditions. He was born into a one room cabin overflowing with more than 70 other dogs. He was born without a name and without human companionship. He was born into a room piled high with feces and the stench of ammonia that would burn your eyes. He was a victim of an animal hoarder .
Back in Missouri in the spring of 2009, I received another round of bad news. The home I was desperately trying to sell, after taking a 40% reduction in salary with a new employer, was not selling. In the midst of trying to figure out how to hold on to our home, I arrived at work one morning to discover that the company was downsizing and I was once again unemployed. These events brought me and my daughters to live with my parents in North Ogden, Utah in June 2009.
After the heartbreaking decision to rehome our dogs in Missouri due to a very uncertain future, we arrived in Utah knowing that we wanted to open our hearts to another dog in need as soon as we were able to. Because the home we were in did not have a fenced yard, we were looking for a small dog that fit our current circumstances.
On June 16, 2009, a news story broke when a man died at a local hospital and authorities discovered that the man had been a dog hoarder. In his small cabin, 75 dogs, mostly poodles, were being kept in a small room. The conditions were the worst many had ever seen. The dogs had suffered long term abuse, neglect and malnourishment. News reports described the room as being covered in feces, as much as a foot deep in places. Of the 75 dogs on the property only 66 were alive. Others were in such bad shape that they were euthanized after being removed. The rescue poodles were split up among several local organizations because there were so many. News stories were calling for potential adopters to open their hearts to these dogs.
My daughters and I headed to the Utah Humane Society in Salt Lake City, Utah. Upon our arrival, we found that only 2 of the 16 rescue poodles they had received were still available. Both of these rescue poodles were small black males. They had been shaved because that was the only way the volunteers could attempt to get them clean. They were both cowering in the back of their cages, shaking with fright. The card on one of the kennels stated that his name was "unknown" and a tag on his neck identified him as rescue poodle #39. We decided to take him out and give him a good look. We carried him outside and placed him in the grass. He froze with fright, not knowing what to make of us, the grass under his feet, or his surroundings. I picked him up and he pressed his small body against me, still shaking in terror. At that moment we knew that we were going to open our hearts and our home to rescue poodle number 39.


We were told that he had recently been neutered and vet checked but that they could offer no long term health guarantees due to the inbreeding that had likely taken place. We were told not to crate train him because of the abuse and neglect he had suffered. We were given fair warning about the time and patience that he would require. It was suggested that we bring rescue poodle number 39 home as a "trial adoption". "Just see how it goes for a week", they told us. "If you still want him after the week, come back and sign the official adoption paperwork". We brought him home.
On our way home we decided that rescue poodle number 39 would be known to us as "Remy".
Rehabiliating Remy
When we brought Remy home, he was much more of a statue of a dog than an actual dog. He was stiff and refused to move. We picked him up and placed him outside and he stood frozen. We picked him up and placed him in his dog bed and he lay there for hours without moving. He continuously shook and you could see terror in his eyes. It was heartbreaking to be with him.
Late on the first evening, I sat quietly next to Remy and put a few kibbles of food on his bed in front of him. He eyed the kibble and looked at me, then back at the kibble. To my amazement, he ate. Over the next hour I placed the kibble a few inches farther and farther from him. Eventually he left his bed and took a few bits of kibble out of my hand. Even though I was warned not to crate train him due to his background, I wanted to see how he would do and was willing to work with him while he adjusted. I put a few bits of kibble in the crate and he walked right in. I closed the door and he curled up and went to sleep. This was a huge victory for day 1, but his attitude about his crate would soon change.
Remy seemed to be improving by the hour. He was extremely cautious, but the constant shaking soon stopped. Remy ate and drank about a foot from the safety of his bed. We began to work on leash walking. With much patience and the lure of a treat, he began to move forward on the leash. Only a couple steps to start with, but by the end of the day I was able to walk him on his leash the 50 feet from the safety of his bed to the outdoors. Soon we were walking outdoors on the leash. It was fascinating to watch his self esteem grow as we walked. He was was doing the poodle prance and showing great confidence. Walking was when I first starting to see the dog in Remy begin to emerge.
I soon began to understand the potential problems with the crate. After the first night, when I placed him in his crate he was restless and began to paw at the door. To help soothe him and settle him down, I placed his crate next to my bed and dangled my arm over the side of the bed with my fingers gently stroking him. He curled up and went to sleep in no time, but the moment I removed my hand, he awoke and became restless once again. I reassured him throughout the night and even though I didn't get much sleep, Remy settled down and slept peacefully.

Soon, stroking him was not enough and there was nothing I could do that would reassure him. Exhausted one night, I picked the crate up off the floor and placed the crate on the bed next to me. He instantly curled up and went to sleep. We had several nights like this. Remy would sleep peacefully in the crate on my bed while I attempted to get comfortable while curling up around that wire box. This arrangement was short lived. After a few weeks, I gave up entirely on the crate for Remy. My room had become his safe haven. So instead of being crate trained, Remy was "room trained". This made him happy and I finally got some much needed sleep.
Remy became extremely attached to me. Because my daughters were gone for the first couple days after he came home, his bond with me was very strong. We tried to get him to bond as strongly with other members in the house. My daughters began to be the ones to walk him and to teach him basic obedience. Everything that they could do to bond with him they did. His bond remains stronger with me than with others and he still has small panic attacks when I'm suddenly out of his site, but this is improving. It should lessen in time but may be something we always need to work on.
One of the biggest side affects of Remy's background seems to be a fear of doorways. In the first few weeks after we brought him home, he would back up and turn a few circles at each doorway before having the confidence to walk through it. He now only hesitates at certain ones and needs to be encouraged to go through others. I've thought about what may have caused this fear and the only thing I've come up with is thinking about managing 75 poodles in one room. If you were to open the door, they would all want to run out. So, there was probably some yelling or screaming or kicking when the door was opened to keep them all confined. Remy may never fully get over his hesitation at doorways, but I will do my best to help him with this problem.
Moving Forward
Most people that meet Remy would have no idea that he is a rescue poodle who began his life as the victim of an animal hoarder. They would not know how far he's come in just a few months. He is a bit timid around new people at first, but warms up quickly. He loves other dogs and will actually whine to meet them when we are on our walks. He has proven to be a smart little guy and has quickly learned basic obedience. We also started teaching him agility since he seems to love to jump. He has amazed us at how high he can jump. He dances for treats and will give you a high five. He is a lover and loves to be loved. He smiles and his eyes roll with delight when you massage and pet him.
Remy will always have a few quirks, but he is no longer a project that we need to work on. Remy is a wonderful dog and a much loved member of our family. We are excited about our future together.

Here's the link to the site where this story is originally posted and there are many other wonderful stories there.

Thursday's issues

I love the NYTimes Well Blog.  I cannot help myself.  I find the most interesting and informative items there.
This article is about the positives to be drawn from walking with a dog and I, for one, have to say that the information here is presented in a scholarly and research-oriented manner but is easily understood by all.

Since I spend quite a bit of my life walking my dog, Satchmo, I have more than a little interest in this topic.  Since reading this article, I have given quite a lot of thought to the benefits I receive just by having a pet dog and by actively taking care of him.  I don't think everyone understands that although having a pet is expensive, what you receive back from your pet is ten-fold.

As I am approaching those "golden years" --they are catching up with me no matter how hard I try to hide-- I find that caring for Satch means 4-5 walks a day.  Yes, some of the 20 minutes is spent in the "walk-sniff-pee-walk-poop-sniff mode" but the rest of the time is actually spent moving.  But, even during the aforementioned mode, I get to be outdoors and enjoy fresh air and sunshine --or freezing rain and artic blasts-- and I don't think I would be trekking outdoors without a good reason.  For me, Satchmo is a very good reason and he responds to my commitment by loving me unconditionally.  You really can't beat that, can you?  For the look in his eyes when we come inside, I will gladly brave the hardest rain and the coldest wind. 
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The Best Walking Partner: Man vs. Dog

 

Suzanne DeChillo/The New York Times 
A dog will never try to talk you out of going for a walk.

By TARA PARKER-POPE

Is it better to walk a human or to walk a dog?

New research from the University of Missouri has found that people who walk dogs are more consistent about regular exercise and show more improvement in fitness than people who walk with a human companion. In a 12-week study of 54 older adults at an assisted living home, 35 people were assigned to a walking program for five days a week, while the remaining 19 served as a control group. Among the walkers, 23 selected a friend or spouse to serve as a regular walking partner along a trail laid out near the home. Another 12 participants took a bus daily to a local animal shelter where they were assigned a dog to walk.
To the surprise of the researchers, the dog walkers showed a big improvement in fitness, while the human walkers began making excuses to skip the workout. Walking speed among the dog walkers increased by 28 percent, compared with just a 4 percent increase among the human walkers.

“What happened was nothing short of remarkable,” said Rebecca A. Johnson, a nursing professor and director of the Research Center for Human Animal Interaction at the University of Missouri’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “The improvement in walking speed means their confidence in their walking ability had increased and their balance had increased. To have a 28 percent improvement in walking speed is mind boggling.”

Ms. Johnson said that because some people are afraid of dogs, the participants were given the choice of walking with a human or a dog as the companion. Ms. Johnson said the dog walkers were far more consistent in sticking with the program than those who were walking with humans.

“In the human walking group, they were regularly discouraging each other from walking,” she said. “Missouri is a hot state. We would hear them saying: ‘It’s hot today. I don’t want to walk, do you?’ ”

The response from participants in the dog-walking group — and their dog companions — was very different.
“When the people came to the animal shelter, they bounced off the bus and said, ‘Where’s my dog?”’ Ms. Johnson said. “And the dogs never gave any discouragement from walking.”

Ms. Johnson said she suspects differences will show up in other areas, like depression and anxiety, although that data are still under review and the final study has not yet been published.

But there were also other subtle indicators of improvement among the dog-walking group. Many people in the dog-walking group stopped using canes and walkers. “They would say, ‘Now I’m physically fit enough to take my dog for a walk,”’ Ms. Johnson said.

Here's the link to this article

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We're having Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain -- Uh Oh! Satch is in the tub again!

Image by ConnieG via Flickr

My dog is deathly afraid of thunder.  He becomes a pitiful, shaking, quaking mess when storms roll in.  I have tried all different ways to relieve his anxiety and pain, to no avail.  He will pace and hide and pace and hide, all while shaking violently and whining.  It hurts me to watch him.  I recently read an article about using Melatonin to deal with this problem.  Below is an article I found, which is just one of many available, that talks about using Melatonin.  I found it on OhMyDogSupplies.com.

The first time I tried this was in the middle of the night when Satch's severe shaking woke me up from a sound sleep.  He was finally able to calm down and go back to sleep, but it took a while for the effect to occur.  Today, however, the storms arrived before I realized it and he was in full-blown panic.  I gave him a dose but so far no effect.  I will have to wait and see if I will need to do something else.  The last time he went into a panic, he jumped into the bathtub and howled.  I want no repeat of that, please.

So, here's the article I'm talking about:

Melatonin: Used To Treat Fear Of Thunderstorms

December 15, 2008

Dogs are often scared of loud noises, not all dogs, but many.  And of those who do have a noise sensitivity,  thunderstorms  and other similar, unexpected sounds, are often the culprits of  their fears. Fear of thunder or other loud noises is very common.  This is often true for puppies and older dogs. Dealing with the possibility of having a panic stricken, nervous  dog, many owners resort to tranquilizers whenever alerted to an  impending thunderstorm. This is an extreme treatment that is  often recommended, but seldom needed. I would like to now  introduce you to a new alternative should you ever need it for  your own scared dog the next time a storm comes through your  area. It is a safe, drug-free, over-the-counter supplement that is  easily available to to any dogs with these anxiety problems. It is  called melatonin. You have probably heard of melatonin before. It is a naturally  occurring hormone that is secreted by a small endocrine gland  called the pineal gland, located at the base of the brain. It helps  to regulate and maintain the body’s circadian rhythm (the body’s  internal clock that tells mammals when to fall asleep and when to  wake up). Melatonin, in humans, is often used as a natural  sleeping aid. For dogs, melatonin is often administered to  alleviate their fear of thunder and other loud noises. I have read studies that melatonin has a positive result with at least  75% of dogs who take the supplement. When do you administer  melatonin, you may be wondering? With some dogs, melatonin is  most effective when it is given just before the storm hits.  In other  dogs, it is best when this supplement is given just as they are  starting to show signs of stress, anxiety and fear so you may have  to experiment over the course of a few storms before you find the  perfect application time for your own dog. Melatonin is said to work in the dogs body for about eight hours or  so. One important note: do not use melatonin on any pregnant dogs  or very young puppies. The best advice I can give you is to check with your veterinarian prior to using melatonin to make sure there  will be no problems with pre-existing health problems or medications  that your dog currently has (or is on) and also for the recommended  dosage for your own pet. By: Debbie Ray Need German Shepherd or Purebred dog information  (http://www.pedigreedpups.com) ? Check us out if you have other  dog related questions!

http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/xnews.php?newsid=160

How To Make Sure Your Dog Has Healthy Teeth

Search Amazon.com for dog teeth care

As you know from reading this blog, Satchmo has terrible trouble with his teeth.  Some of it is my fault, I'm sure, but some of it is his genetics.  I thought I would post an article here about ways to help your dog have a nice clean mouth to give lots of doggy kisses to you without cringing from the odor.

This is from a website called Our Dogs Food.  Please visit the site and there you will find a veritable source of information and videos that cover just about any issue known in the care of your pets.  I know I will be bookmarking this site and returning frequently, so I hope you enjoy it also.

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How To Make sure your Dog has Healthy Teeth

By the time your dog matures, he’ll have 42 teeth (twenty on top and twenty-two on the bottom). All of them will need proper care throughout his life. It is estimated that four out of five canines experience some form of dental problem by three years of age. The side effects extend much further than a lost tooth or discomfort along the gum line. Bacteria can potentially enter your pooch’s bloodstream, leading to problems with his kidneys and heart.
Oral disease is one of the most prevalent medical issues suffered by pets throughout the country. For this reason, we’ll take a closer look at common dental problems experienced by dogs and the steps you can take to prevent them. We’ll explain why regular trips to your veterinarian are critical and describe how to care for your canine’s teeth at home.
Common Types Of Dental Problems
While cavities are rare among canines, plaque buildup is common. It typically forms as the result of small bits of food that accumulate between the teeth and gum line. If the food is allowed to remain there for prolonged periods, plaque will eventually form.
Over time, minerals in your canine’s saliva will transform the plaque into tartar. Tartar is a bigger problem because it is much more difficult to correct. Moreover, unlike plaque, tartar causes inflammation to the gums, a condition known as gingivitis.
If your dog develops gingivitis, you’ll noticed the gum line next to his teeth becoming red. You’ll also notice that his breath is bad. If the tartar is allowed to remain, it will continue to build underneath your pooch’s gums. Small spaces will eventually form between the gum line and teeth, which promote the growth of bacteria. This is the onset of periodontitis; it cannot be reversed. Your dog will likely begin to develop abscesses, infection, and other problems, including lost teeth.
It’s worth noting the factors that contribute to periodontal disease. First, some breeds are more susceptible to developing the problem than others. Second, genetics play a part. Third, your canine’s diet, age, and the dental care you provide for him at home also have a significant influence. Many owners would be surprised to learn that even the manner in which they groom their dogs can promote the accumulation of tartar.
Regular Trips To The Veterinarian
Proper dental care for your pooch should involve a two-pronged approach. You should make regular appointments with his [...]

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Tuesday's True Stories -- Lucas: Love Champion

Image via Wikipedia

Tuesday's will now be dedicated to telling true stories about dogs all over the world.  Rescues, strays, pets, etc.; you name it and I will post it.  As a true dog lover, I always enjoy good stories about man's best friend.  It seems that our world is getting meaner and meaner (people-wise) so to find balance I need to read about the unconditional love and loyalty freely given to us by our four-legged pets.

Here is an article I found on For Your Entertainment about the meanest of the Vick pit bulls.  This is a great story and it will make you smile.  Enjoy!  Please check out some of the other hilarious posts at that blog site and leave them a comment.
_____________________________________________________________________________

In my time as a caregiver at Best Friends I've worked with all kinds of dogs with all sorts of temperaments, but I haven't had too much contact with the Vicktory dogs, the pit bulls that were formerly owned by Michael Vick. There are a few I say hello to that live in staff offices and whom I see fairly often, but just haven't had the opportunity to get to know any of them too well... until a few weeks ago!

I was helping out with a transport of two dogs that needed to see medical specialists in Las Vegas. When I got in the van along with ace BF Lead Dog Tech Sarah Kubacki I discovered that we'd be transporting two dogs: Jingles, an awesomely friendly little pit bull with a mysterious eye issue, and Lucas, one of the most legendary of the Vicktory dogs. Thought by investigators to be Vick's champion fighter, this large brown pit bull has quite the impressive scar collection, particularly around his face and muzzle, and is one of two dogs compelled to live out his life here at Best Friends by order of the court. He also has a reputation for being an all-around sweetheart and nice guy and I'd met him a few times in an office where he visits sometimes and greets staff and visitors to BF. My time at Best Friends has only deepened my love for pit bulls and I was quite happy to be spending time with Lucas and Jingles!

The ride down to Vegas was uneventful and Jingles went to her ophthalmologist appointment, where she needed to stay for a while, so we continued on with Lucas for his cardiologist appointment. He's one of the BEST dogs for medical handling I've ever seen and was open and friendly as the vet did his physical exam... and then his two vet students repeated the exam, with Lucas smiling the whole time! He got the same excellent reviews from the techs who escorted him into a private room for his echocardiogram. Lucas is being monitored for an enlarged heart caused by heartworm, which was treated when he arrived at Best Friends. I'm happy to say that the cardiologist was very pleased.

We got some news about Jingles, too: she was going to have to stay overnight for a minor surgical procedure in the morning. It didn't make sense to drive all the way back to Best Friends only to have to return to Las Vegas in the morning, so we made some phone calls and came up with a plan: we would stay in Las Vegas overnight... and take Lucas on his very first sleepover outside of Best Friends! Once we were out of the vet's office with Lucas I made some reservations and found a dog-friendly hotel for the evening.

Lucas remained friendly at the hotel, but at first he didn't want to leave the bathroom! He was fascinated by the shower stall and wanted to hang out in there - obviously a little intimidated by the brand new environment. We gave him a little while to decompress and get comfy and gave him some water, and after a bit encouraged him to come out and explore... which eventually, he did. When we made it clear that he was welcome to come up onto the bed if he wanted, he did... and plopped himself down between us to watch some TV. We petted him as he watched, transfixed by the antics of Steve Carell, a real couch potato! As he grew more comfortable with his surroundings he rolled on his back for belly scratches and occasionally wandered up to give us some kisses. He was also fascinated by the pizza that was delivered! (Of course, I would never give a dog people food... y'know, except a little crust...)

We wandered out for his evening walk - he was amiable and curious and accepted the extremely blustery winds and the sights and sounds of a bustling city, so unlike what he is used to, with admirable ease. When bedtime came, he stretched out between us and slept soundly while snoring lightly, waking us in the morning with happy kisses and a wagging tail.

We had some time in the morning before we had to pick up Jingles, so Lucas came with us on an outing to the park. He did great and enjoyed himself immensely - he was particularly interested in the duck pond and was very curious about the ducks and geese! We saw some other leashed dogs at a distance and while he was curious about them, he didn't show any sign of aggression. He was loose and happy and loved walking on grass, something he doesn't have much of at the desert sanctuary! After our park outing we picked Jingles up from the vet and headed home to Utah.

Lucas is one of the most well-known of a group of dogs whom some leaders in animal welfare thought - and some still think - should be killed. They were called "ticking time bombs" and "some of the most aggressively trained pit bulls in the country". "Rehabilitating fighting dogs", one animal group opined, "is not in the cards." As I woke up in that hotel room with a scarred, battered, happy, silly, joyous pit bull licking my face, I had only one thought: I wish that people who truly love animals but believe that pit bulls or fighting victims are somehow different or irredeemable could have the same experience I had, to spend an evening in a hotel room with Lucas and a night with him rolling over for scratches, being silly, investigating new things, and sleeping peacefully by your side - and wake up to this incredibly resilient, affectionate and forgiving animal licking your face. Lucas is a wonderful dog on his own merits, and I very much hope that one day the court will allow him to be adopted so he may have people of his own. He deserves it.


Here's the link to the original posting......click here

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