Ain't Misbehavin'

DAWN CHORUS

2010-04-16T03:48:00.000-07:00

I was awakened this morning at 4:20 a.m. Not by my dog needing to answer nature's call, which happens from time to time, mostly depending on her diet the following day.

No-Journey was peacefully sleeping, softly snoring ,taking up a bit more space on my bed than makes me comfortable.

There was a bird perched on a branch of a tree outside my bedroom window, making a joyful noise--non-stop, every three or four seconds a three-bar melody until 6:20.

Since I was up--not before the birds but certainly with this particular bird with not much to do at that hour, I went on to the Environment Canada website and learned our sunrise is at 6:20 a.m. at this time of year . . . so this bird seems to have the pre-dawn shift.

I also wanted to find out if my hunch was right. Which species of bird was my new best friend? I went onto some bird sites and found out there is something referred to as the 'dawn chorus' (who but those of us who've been awakened by them would have known?!).

This Dawn Chorus begins an hour or so before sunrise and can continue for an hour afterwards. It can be heard from March through to July and is at its peak in May (can't wait for the peak!).

Birds such as the Song Thrush, Blackbird and Robin start to sing earlier in the chorus than smaller, insect-eating birds. In the darkness, the conditions help good sound quality. Nothing worse than being awakened by bad sound quality!!

So I was narrowing the field (or flock) down - - it could be either the Song Thrush, Blackbird or Robin, My bushel of birdseed was on the Robin. There are so many of them in my neighbourhood.

Thanks to this great site of Robin vocalizations, after familiarizing myself with all three of the birds' songs, I won the bet!

http://www.learner.org/jnorth/tm/robin/Vocalizations.html

Seems this 'song' differs from the 'continuous song'. This one is a territorial pre-dawn melody.

I'd like to continue with my pre-dawn territorial melody . . . it's commonly referred to as snoring!!

THEY'RE BACK

2010-04-08T03:46:00.000-07:00

The Toronto Humane Society on River Street is back, under a court approved agreement.

They will be opening their doors in June, after taking a hiatus to clean and upgrade the place.

Four senior staff members and two other staff, including president Tim Trow and head veterinarian Dr. Steve Sheridan (wonder where he'll be practising in the future), blackened the name of the shelter and now face multiple charges including animal cruelty (much better suited to work for the government).

http://aint--misbehavin.blogspot.com/search?updated-min=2009-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&updated-max=2010-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&max-results=35

These sick individuals will be replaced ... and hopefully they will suffer. I know they will never suffer the way the animals in their care did--but I can dream!

The investigation was started due to an animal care worker who was fired from the shelter back in 2006. Marcie Laking started a protest group and was successful in drawing attention to the conditions at the shelter when the group held two demonstrations in 2008, in front of the shelter on River Street, Toronto.

Kudos to you Marcie and let it never be said one person can't make a difference!!

WALKIN' THE DOG

2010-04-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

When Journey and I arrived at the beach this morning, we were greeted by a clear blue sky, the water dancing in the sunlight and the sad realization there would be no more joy in our daily visits to the boardwalk.

You see, after April 1st, dogs are forbidden on the sand and beach, on leash or off, anywhere except the off-leash areas in The Beaches.

This all started when our City Council decided to apply to get a couple of the beaches in Toronto designated as Blue Flag Beaches.

http://aint--misbehavin.blogspot.com/2009/04/ive-just-returned-from-very-first.html

Dogs are allowed on the sand and beach from November 1st to March 31, when no one else is using it; when it's windy and cold and snowy and blowy . . . and then only behind the snow fencing that is put up during those months (of course, keep in mind the City of Toronto exercises their police horses on the sand throughout the year without worrying about cleaning up after their companions!).

From today until November, our dogs will have to remain on leash, unless they are in one of two off-leash areas.

The off-leash area down at the eastern end of the boardwalk doesn't have any fencing at all to keep the dogs in the designated space and the other off-leash south of Lee Ave. has gates that don't close securely.

Neither of these areas are totally fenced-in, the dogs can get out of both of them. But if they do--there is a sizable fine waiting if an animal control officer is in the area.

The off-leash areas have a posted code of behavior:

Comply with all signs and boundaries and carry a leash at all times.
All dogs must have a municipal dog license.
Dogs must remain in off-leash area so as not to trample or endanger plant material and other park resources.
Dogs excluded from use of off-leash areas: dogs identified under the Dog Owners Liability Act:
1. Pit bulls;
2. Female dogs in heat;
3. Uncastrated male dogs;
4. Any dog that has been issued a muzzle order by the Medical Officer of Health.
Discourage your dog(s) from chasing wildlife.
Pick up after the dog(s) and carry the dog(s) waste home to the Green Bin or use the receptacle provided.
Dog(s) must be under voice or signal control and in sight at all times. If your dog does not respond immediately, retrieve your dog and leash it.
Leash your dog(s) immediately, if aggressive behaviour is demonstrated.
Respect other park users.
Dogs that dig holes must have their owners fill them in immediately. Holes create safety hazards for other users especially after dark.
Always carry a bag, a spare and one to share.
Municipal Codes Chapter 349 & 608
Violation of bylaws are punishable by fines.

I wonder how many people who use the off-leash areas have actually taken the time to familiarize themselves with the posted code because there sure is evidence to the contrary.

Dog walkers who have five or six dogs in the area just stand and yap with other dog walkers who also have five or six dogs, while many times their charges wreak havoc on individual dogs and their owners using the space.

Owners who are oblivious to their dog's whereabouts or their dog's behavior, instead enjoying a phone conversation or a social hour with other dog owners. Nothing wrong with that--if their eyes and ears are on their dog!

If one happens to remind the owner of an unruly dog about the code of behavior, a verbal fur-flying will undoubtedly ensue.

I can't count the times I've witnessed dog fights in the off-leash areas. I'm not referring to the momentary scuffle when dogs have a disagreement or the 'it's my ball--didn't you see my human throw it for me?"

I'm referring to a dog on the prowl desiring to exert it's dominance on any dog it's size or larger. (the drunken-bully-in-the-bar syndrome!) I know of people who've politely asked another dog owner to please leash their dog if they feel it's getting too aggressive with their own dog and we know where that leads--the echoing, "this is an off-leash area", as if anything is permissible.

It seems any dog behavior is acceptable in the off-leash areas. As well as any human behavior.

Perhaps it would just be more realistic to post an "ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK."

Exactly whose responsibility is it to let children who join parents on visits to the off-leash areas know they are not in their own backyard? Their dog may be used to the kid racing around, yelling, dodging in and out of the bushes acting like a young, aggressive maniac. But I tell you, if my one-hundred-and-fifty-pound dog comes barreling around a bush at full speed and knocks a child down, the broken bones involved will not be fixed by a veterinarian!

So now I'm supposed to keep my dog from racing around in the off-leash to ensure the kids in there don't get knocked down???

Don't think so!

Then there are the tourists who come down to the beach for the day, saunter into an off-leash area and proceed to set out their blanket on which to enjoy a picnic lunch.

When dogs start circling the picnickers fried chicken and they are trying to shoo them away, I enjoy asking them if they realize they are eating their lunch in the biggest kitty-litter box in Toronto.

Once again, it becomes my responsibility to keep my dog away from these fools??

I think not!

It's only fair that one of the most dog-dense communities in Canada has space for tax-payers to exercise their dogs--this goes without saying. Just as the children in our community need their safe play spaces.

Access to safe, clean off leash spaces shouldn't be something we have to grovel and or do penance for.

Since dogs are allowed in the city, we must ensure they have proper space to get the exercise they need to develop into social, well-balanced companions.

I don't see a problem with designating times dogs can have free-run of the beach all year round. Perhaps 6:00 a.m.-8:00 a.m. and again from 8 p.m. -10:00 p.m.

Now that's something to chew on!!

NO TIME FOR THIS

2010-03-26T17:45:00.000-07:00

"The phone rings as I'm preparing dinner."Hello."

"Hi, do you have Great Danes?"

"Um...yes, I do." I reply, silently calculating if this conversation will be over before my sauce is done. "My name is Deborah."

"Do you have puppies? I want a fawn colour," I hear.

"Who is this I'm speaking to?"

"Damian."

"Have you owned a Great Dane before, Damian?" I question.

"Yes, I did." Nothing more offered.

"May I ask who you bought your Dane from and how long you had it?"

"It wasn't here in Canada--I just moved here."

About now, I know this person would have to do a whole heck of a lot more talking if he wanted to be considered seriously as a prospective puppy owner--at least one of my puppy owners.

"Oh, where did you move from?"

"From Illinois."

"Oh yes, and who was it you got your Dane from in Illinois?" Another three or four minutes and my sauce would be of perfect consistency.

"It wasn't really someone who had Great Danes or anything like that."

"I see," peering into my pan on the stove, making a statement more about my sauce than his response to my question.

"How much are your dogs?" Damian enquires.

"I sell my puppies for $1500."

"How old are they when you sell them?"

About now, I am wishing I had a free hand to disconnect the call but both hands are busy as I add a tich more thyme to the delicate sauce simmering in the pan.

"Eight weeks old at least," I offer.

"How much would you sell one for younger?"

My lip curls slowly as I realize not only is my sauce done . . . but the conversation is over-done.

"How much would you sell one for if I got it at two weeks old?"

"I don't sell puppies at two weeks old. I don't know of anyone who does--not even those disgusting puppy mills," hoping he can hear the offense in my tone.

I put my spoon down on the counter and grab the phone from where it's been nestled between my shoulder and my ear.

"Why not?" he persists.

"I'm afraid I can't be of any further help to you, Damian.

He's done--like dinner.

GREAT CRATE DEBATE

2010-03-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

I don't remember ever having a crate for any of the dogs our family shared our home with while I was growing up.

We brought the new puppy home and house-trained it.

I'm not just referring to making sure we weren't slipping on a soggy floor or experiencing that squish between our toes as our feet hit the floor upon awakening (am I the only one who's experienced this one??).

This is breaking the dog of the habit of urinating and defecating in the house. House-breaking.

The house-breaking was the easy part--took all of a week due to our vigilance and dedication, no matter what breed we were dealing with (although males always did seem to be a bit more trying).

The house-training took a bit longer. Teaching our puppies what was ours as opposed to what was theirs. Respect for their surroundings, their den--and for their humans.

Teaching dogs to respect the boundaries we gave them, which obviously included redirecting them from a shoe to one of their toys, redirecting their attacks on a potted plant or cautioning them to leave anything on the coffee table alone (every living room had a coffee table back then, right?) was all in a day with a new puppy.

Sure there were accidents, as there are with babies when they're just beginning to crawl and are overcome with wanting to experience their tactile sense but we were ever more watchful--there was, after all, a four-footed baby in the house.

I'm not sure when the whole crate craze started escalating out of control. I believe it was about fifteen to twenty years ago.

No longer any need for breeders to pass up a sale to the people who desired a puppy, even if they had full time jobs and were out of their den between fifty to sixty hours a week.

No bother for newly-married couples who desired the status of instant 'family' to concern themselves with their daily out-of-den commitments.

One of the many reasons given for introducing the crate to a pup at an early age is the 'what if' scenario. What if your dog has to have an emergency stay overnight at a veterinary hospital?

In emergencies, my dogs (as adults) have on occasion had to spend time at the vet's. They have to be really ill, something life-threatening for me to agree to have them stay over-night at any veterinarian hospital usually because there's no staff on over-night--but that's a whole other post.

When they've had this unfortunate experience, they've been too ill to concern themselves with their accommodations. They've not fought the crate or shown great anxiety . . . they've been ill.

If you have ever seen those horrid images of dogs in puppy mills, you are aware that in fact a dog will soil in a confined space.

To confine a puppy to such a space when physiologically it hasn't even got full control of its bowel or bladder in order to teach it to relieve itself out-of-doors is ludicrous.

It is however . . . convenient. For the human--not for the puppy.

To crate a puppy to keep it from exploring its new den and possibly chewing on an exposed electrical wire or knocking over a plant or chewing up a tennis racket or the millions of other things puppies are drawn to, is simply being l-a-z-y and not stepping up to the responsibilities involved in molding a new puppy's teeny little brain.

Of course a pup will approach an object it's not familiar with-sniff it, if it still can't get a read on it, next best thing would be to whack it with a paw, see if it's going to move. If it still doesn't get any feedback from the object--the pup will probably try giving it a chew, see if it's edible.

At the point when the pup has sniffed whatever object has its attention and is zoning in for further exploration, the owner should step in and redirect--letting the pup know that the object is of no further concern to the pup.

It may take some repetition but it works! The pups' exploratory nature is satisfied and they're learning the boundaries at the same time...with the owner's involvement.

Basic and simple--and agreed, it's exhausting and time-consuming.

There are no instant results--unless of course, you just stick the pups into the 'safe place' (as pro-craters like to call a cage) and get on with your life.

To believe a pup needs a 'safe' place--a quiet place or a time-out place to go, other than a bed, sofa or blanket in a space on the floor is nothing more than great marketing. For puppies there's no safer place or any better feeling of security than to be beside their humans (preferably touching a body part).

My dog's 'safe place' is our home. It's her big, roomy den. She respects it and everything in it--because I've taken the time, put in the energy and raised her that way.

I just can't imagine how we or our dogs ever survived puppy-rearing before the use of crates!

***In this post, I'm not referring to breeders who have to deal with males and females and the challenge they are faced with when one (or more) of their females is in season. ***

__________________________________

COMMENTS:

I use a crate only at night but it is by the bed and that way I know when to get up before it is too late.
I agree some people use it as a place to stick a puppy/dog for hours on end.
Once they are potty trained it gets put down in the basement.

I have also found that it is a haven/safe place for puppies from older adults. I take the door off and it becomes their cave. I use the 900 Vari Kennels so lots of room.

Back in '92 , I had two brothers that loved their crates. I never put the doors on, they would kiss you good night and go to a crate. It didn't matter which one.
They then out grew the 900 crate and decided sleeping on a mat in the family room was OK.
BM

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I agree with you Deborah. The only time our dogs are ever crated is at ringside and those crates are big enough for 2 full grown Danes to stand and lie down fully stretched.
Why on earth have a dog and then isolate it from you in a crate!
KY

___________________________________

I can not help but agree with you..
We do not crate either.
IK

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We never used “any sort of crating”. I hate it ! I’d never agree to do it. Why imprison a pet.
You named the only –if ever- acceptable reasonfor it: season of a bitch.

For one, a dog needs to become housebroken and trained by the owners. It needs education and if people won’t accept that I simply say “hands off”pets.
BV

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Crates have become a "must" now for the convenience of the owners, like so many things to-day, complete food, electric collars, halti's and lots of other short cuts that are purely for the convenience of the owners.
Nobody seems to just use things in moderation anymore -- its all or nothing.
I think crates used correctly can be a big help, at shows, when a dog has to be restricted for a health problem or lameness, bitches in season safely confined, also sometimes for a babies protection, BUT I have actually seen crates three high in RV's with all sorts of breeds in them--- what I did'nt see was those dogs going out for a good run and exercise before going in them. !!!!!
Crate With Caution!

SPOT CHECKS

2010-03-12T07:22:00.000-08:00

Billed as the largest dog show in the world, Crufts, in Birmingham, England, is taking place from the 11th through the 14th of this month with 22,000+ dogs entered.

After last year's bad press, and the ensuing BBC investigative documentary, Pedigree Dogs Exposed the show this year promises "healthy and happy, fit for function" dogs.

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=44215931

Not just "show" (conformation) dogs but a variety of other dogs who work will be taking part in fly ball, agility, jumping competitions with presentations and demonstrations by Police Dogs, Friends For Life and various others.

This year, a warning went out to breed clubs that there will be extra checks to ensure dogs have not been cosmetically altered for the show ring.

I'm not jumping on the PETA bandwagon here. I show my own dogs and breed them.

I am concerned with the ethics demonstrated by some of the breeders and exhibitors and with the kennel clubs turning a blind eye to their own rules and regulations governing the show ring.

"Although the rules do not specifically ban the use of cosmetics on dogs, they do forbid anything that alters an animal's appearance for the show ring."

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/7385746/Crufts-on-alert-for-dogs-in-make-up.html up.html

Am I missing something here--?

BAN: to prohibit especially by legal means, also : to prohibit the use, ...

FORBID:: to proscribe from or as if from the position of one in authority : command against.

Anyone who is familiar with the conformation show ring knows the practice of 'tweaking' a dog's appearance has become far too acceptable at shows.

I can't ever remember hearing of a dog being disqualified for cosmetic alteration of its appearance.

If you have, please enlighten me.

From applying eyeliner to dye jobs to the more involving surgical procedures such as correcting a dog's tail carriage by nicking the tendons or the implantation of 'nuticles.'

While there are pet owners who want testicles in their dog's empty scrotum after the dog has been neutered, it's NOT acceptable in the conformation ring!http://greatreporter.com/mambo/content/view/1526/16/

One of the big companies that offers a white chalk for dog's coats states right on their site the "Dry white chalk in block form may be used for the cleaning but must be removed from the coat before the dog enters the ring."

Take a look at the selection this company offers then consider who exactly would be using these products:

http://www.hubintsecured.co.uk/acatalog/Camouflage_Products_-_NOT_for_the_UK_Showring.html

Winners Circle . . .hmm. Does the name imply something? Just when would a companion or pet dog have whitening powder applied to its coat?

Perhaps before meeting his doggy friends at the park for a play?

Would a conscientious owner stop to apply ear weight to hold their dog's ears down before heading out to the beach on a windy day?

(guess I should try that product on my girl on windy days!)

How the officials are planning to carry out these 'spot checks' is not made clear.

Will they be lurking in the grooming area? Will they go over each dog at ringside before it enters the ring to be judged?

Will the exhibitors who are found guilty be disciplined?

Will they be asked to leave with their cosmetically-enhanced dog?

I think not.

Unfortunately, I believe the threat of extra checks or any checks for that matter, will remain quietly on paper.

DEAF EARS

2010-03-07T07:23:00.001-08:00

Some owners think dogs magically or instinctively know what we expect of them, like heel, stay and come, without the dog ever being conditioned to respond to these commands. This can only be accomplished through patience, spending time and energy and lots of repetition.

I was down on the beach yesterday with my girl enjoying the sunshine and warm sand. I was watching the antics of dozens of dogs as they played like puppies in the fresh spring air.

A young Weimaraner, no more than three or four months in this world, came bounding over to us, stopping every few steps on the way to scent our energy.

Wide-eyed and innocent, he bellied up to Journey the last two feet, bowing low to a dog of such stature.

I give the little guy an A+ for confidence and bravery.

When he felt assured he wasn't going to be gobbled up in one gulp or stomped into the sand by one giant paw his whole back-end started wagging exuberantly while his front-end was doing a frenzied introduction dance. He was both humbled and thrilled!

Journey studied him with disdain, weighing out in her mind just how much energy she would have to expend on humouring this slightly obnoxious, young upstart.

Just as I was settling in to enjoy the entertainment there was a shrill, "Peppy--come here," in the distance.

I saw a male figure strutting across the sand and once again the command, "Peppy, come!"

My girl switched her focus from the pup toward the approaching voice. The pup was totally oblivious to anything other than his desire to impress us, if not with his brains then with his self-importance and cuteness.

("Look at me, I'm a pup, I'm playing with you, I'm adorable, look at me! I'm a pup.")

Once more, from ten feet away, a thunderous, "Peppy, you come here--NOW!"

The pup now identifying his master's voice above the sounds of the wheels going around in his tiny brain, turned from us, ran enthusiastically over to Peppy Sr., twirlled around and darted right back to where his new-found friend was, paying Peppy Sr. no more attention.

Peppy Sr., without as much as a how-do-you-do, closed the gap between us, reached down, grabbed young Peppy roughly by the collar and proceeded to give him a tongue-lashing.

"I told you to come! You know better than that--you come when I call you."

All the while, Peppy could have cared less, trying his best to squirm away from Sr. in an attempt to get back over to us.

("Let go of me--can't you see I'm trying to show-off for this dog? I'm socializing!!")

I could have kept my mouth closed. I could have reached into my pocket for that duct tape more than one person has suggested I carry with me but I never seem to remember it. Besides my pockets are for dog treats and doggy bags.

"Peppy is wonderful. How old is he?"

"He's almost four months old--with a mind of his own," Sr. states grabbing onto Peppy's collar again.

(well, who else's mind could he have in there but his own??)

"You've taught him to come already?" . . . I'm impressed.

"He knows better than to take off like that when I call him," he states with exasperation.

Really?? Hmm . . .

"No he doesn't-not at this age," I venture. "Actually, this is the age they learn there's no umbilical cord attaching them to their human, that they actually have a choice as to whether or not they do what you ask."

"He'll want to please you by doing what you expect of him once he understands what that is," I rant on. "That can only come by conditioning, spending time teaching him the expected response to a command."

"For a high-energy dog like this," I add, " I think you should consider using a ball--make the teaching fun so he doesn't realize he's learning."

Holding his pup by the collar, front feet now off the sand as Peppy struggles, still trying in vain to escape, I hear, "Now that is a beautiful dog you've got."

"Wish my guy would hurry up and settle down."

(Hurry up and settle down?!?! Boy, has he got a lot to learn about his chosen breed!)

I realize my advice has fallen on ears as deaf as Peppy's were when Sr. had yelled at him to come.

"He's not really a settle-down kinda breed," I reply as light-heartedly as I can. "He's got alot of energy and joy to spread. He's going to need tons of exercise and challenges to keep him focused."

"His parents are both smart dogs--they're champions," he offers, as he leads a thrashing Peppy away by the collar.

As I watch them wander off, I know Peppy will only be as 'smart' as his owner teaches him to be.

With Sr.'s comment about a four-month-old Weim settling down, I can't help wonder if this is another pup who was purchased without thought to the genes behind that adorable face.

Is Peppy destined to join the thousands of others of his breed in rescue organizations due to lack of education on both the breeder and the purchaser's parts?

Guess that will all depend on how smart Sr.'s parents are!

LICENSE TO OWN

2010-03-01T13:39:00.000-08:00

License: A permission granted by competent authority to engage in a business or occupation or in an activity otherwise unlawful b) : a document, plate, or tag evidencing a license granted.

We need a license to drive a car, a license to own a firearm, a license to operate a business, to sell real estate, to run a daycare, to fish in fresh water.

All dogs within the city of Toronto require a license, under Chapter 349 of the Municipal code. Renewable every year.

Failure to do so may result in a $240. fine.

The city doesn't care if your dog is healthy, if it has up-to-date shots, if you are a responsible or abusive owner--in other words, it's a money grab. Every year!

In theory, the reasoning behind the license is if your dog gets loose and lost, the tag number on its collar will enable Animal Control to check the records and be able to return your dog to you.

In the UK, the government now wants people to be 'competence tested' before they are able to own a dog.

A good idea? You bet!

Why NOT license the owner . . . ??

We have classes for expectant mothers before they welcome their new baby into their home.

We study the driver's handbook ( or should!) before we get behind the wheel.

We are required to pass a course before we are able to be licensed to own a firearm.

Why, with dogs, can we bring one into our home and lives with nothing more than the asking price necessary?

There are just too many breeds owned by far too many people who don't realize what they have at the end of the leash.

A dog is an investment. In money, time, energy, emotion and hopefully your heart.

Obedience schools are cleaning up on wrong choices made. Rescue organizations of all breeds are full with people's bad decisions.

The warnings in the various dog breed standards letting people know what kind of temperament their adorable puppy has coursing through its genes are there for a reason:

*NOT recommended for the faint of heart or those used to handling a poodle; nor would they suit a first time dog owner who has no experience handling dogs.

*Self-confident and fearless, requiring a dominant owner, able to keep his alpha position within the pack.

*This natural guard dog is protective, courageous and fearless. They need an owner to know how to display leadership at all times. Aggression and attacks on people are due to poor handling and training. For the most part, they are generally good with other dogs.

*They will be aggressive with strangers unless they are trained and socialized from a young age. Proper training must be stressed for them. They never fall back from a fight.

*Suspicious of strangers. A watchdog that cannot be bribed.

It's just too easy to purchase a dog online with a credit card number and Paypal.

Some of these interesting breeds whose temperaments I've cited above, can be purchased online on Kijiji, GetAPuppy,TerrificPets or a thousand other similiar sites.

Unfortunately even some breeders are guilty by omission by not mentioning their breed's less desirable traits--just to make a sale.

I would like to see anyone interested in owning a dog taking a course first, pass the course and then proceed on to selecting one of three or four breeds suggested by the instructor of the course, as a good match for their personalities and lifestyles.

Too many people fall in love with 'the look' of a particular breed as a six-week old pup, never taking the time to research the breed history and function.

"It's so cute--I want one!" Many times an impulse purchase.

Taking a course and receiving a license to own, would do away with impulse shopping. It would give aspiring puppy owners a glimpse into the responsibility and nurturing it takes to end up with a well-balanced companion.

A darned good idea!!

DON'T SPEAK TO THE DOGS!

2010-02-27T18:19:00.000-08:00

There are two small dogs who live up the street. They have a spacious, fenced corner lot to play in.

When we first relocated to this neighbourhood a year ago, I introduced Journey to the two of them mainly so they would stop their continuous, high-pitched barking whenever we passed by.

I checked with their owner and she agreed I could give them treats when we saw them.

After a few weeks they got used to us passing their property and even came running over to the fence to greet Journey and to get their treats from me.

Now that they don't go into a cacophony of yapping from the moment they spot us until we are out of sight--now that I've conditioned their response to seeing us, they're not bad dogs really.

They're kind of cute--in a tiny dog sort of way.

Their biggest problem (as with 80% of tiny dogs) is they really don't have lives. They have instead, a yard. I have never seen them being walked. I've never really seen their owner do anything with them except yell at them when they are at the fence barking.

Tonight on our walk, the two were in the yard again. Their owner was also out in the yard, enjoying the balmy evening.

As we approached their property, I called to them--as I usually do. They came cheerfully and silently up to the fence, tails wagging a greeting to Journey. I suppose we're a diversion from their everyday nothingness.

I bent down to say my hello's and give them their treats when their owner spoke.

"Please don't speak to my dogs."

I stood up, sure I'd misunderstood. "Don't speak to your dogs?" I repeated back to her with a definite chill invading the mild evening.

"You are endangering their lives when you speak to them", she offered.

There have been times I may have endangered my own life by speaking (my mind) but I hardly think I wield the kind of power she was attributing to my spoken word.

"Endangering their lives?", I asked incredulously.

"If they were to see you and get out of the fence and run across the street to you, they could get hit by a car", she explained, "So please don't speak to them again."

O.K . . . I give. Her power of reasoning went so far over my head, I felt a little giddy.

Although there were three or four responses vying to make their way out of my mouth, I was too dumb-founded to trust myself to say anything. . I shook my head, gave her the look I reserve for someone who has mistreated their dog and slowly moved on.

Please don't speak to my dogs echoed through my mind as Journey and I made our way across the street homeward.

If only she understood she had other options available.

1] Make sure her fencing is secure so the dogs can enjoy what little socialization and amusement they can get from passersby.

2] teach the dogs to stay on their own property.

3] give the dogs a life outside of the fence so they won't be so interested in escaping. Walking them would be a great start!

Will I ever speak to her dogs again? Probably--when they come bouncing jubilantly up to the fence to greet us and she's not around.

People never cease to amaze me.

Comments:

That's my girl!!!.....I do miss being in the old neighborhood..... and our daily walks.....and all the drama associated with the dog owners (good ones and bad ones)Great blog!!! why aren't you doing columns for newspapers!!!!

Wow .... I'm speechless. She was probably jealous that they weren't barking for you and that you were talking to them and they were interested. You should have asked her if anyone bothers to speak to her ... obviously not (after the first few words).

Unbelievable!

Oh, how sad. The problem with dogs in houses is that they think a dog should be content with a big backyard. How wrong. How would you feel confined to the same space day in day out, watching the world go by. If you want a happy outgoing dog, then socialization within your community is a must.

JUDGING THE JUDGES

2010-02-23T17:33:00.000-08:00

Conformation: the form & structure, make and shape; arrangement of the parts in conformance with breed standard demands.

Conformation Dog Show: a competitive exhibition of dogs at which the dogs are judged in accordance with an established standard of perfection for each breed.

In the 1880's the first dog shows were held in Canada, under the rules of the AKC (American Kennel Club).

In England, the Kennel Club (KC) held its first show in 1859. It was a social affair, held by the aristocrats as a fund-raiser for charities.

Before the Kennel Clubs came into existence, shows were a meeting place where owners gathered to show off their breeding stock, many times amid much chaos and recounting of stories in a bar or a hotel. The dogs were mostly hunting dogs, working terriers and spaniels.

A far cry from what we experience today!

There are about 245 working-group judges in Canada (these judges are licensed to judge the dogs who are in the working group) and 121 all-breed judges (these judges can judge all 7 groups; sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting, and herding).

So why would we need to go out of country for judges and pay the extra dollars for their airfare and accommodations?

Simply because there seems to be a disrespect and contempt for a large number of the judges in Ontario. Some of their judging skills smell worse than a three-week old liver treat forgotten in a jacket pocket.

If a judge doesn't want to be in the ring judging-why accept the assignment and be miserable to both dog and handler?

If there are judges who aren't familiar enough with the standard of a breed they are judging then perhaps the CKC should be reviewing their licensing practices.

A mandatory re-testing every five years for judges of the breed standards might not be a bad idea either.

There are also politics played in the show ring where unfortunately, many times, the best dog does not win.

There are various reasons for this, whether it's simply judges preferring a handler on the other end of the leash, or not being familiar enough with the standard of the breed being judged.

Perhaps some judge needs new glasses and can't recognize a dog who should be excused for lameness, limping around the ring-and instead points to it as the winner.

Exhibitor's stories abound in all breeds.

There's a difference between judges putting up their personal, preferred type and judges just not knowing the breed standard of the dogs in front of them!

One lady was horrified, after paying her entry fee, only to be asked by the judge, "What do you call this colour of dane?"

She politely answered that it's referred to as a Harlequin (black torn patches on a white base coat).

The judge then went back to her copy of the Great Dane standard open at the table and looked it up.

Not acceptable!!

Had it been me, I hope I would have excused myself from the ring and filed a complaint against the judge.

Knowing all we know about ring politics, we still enter our dogs . . . under judges who hopefully haven't been influenced by the glossy win-pictures of dogs staring at them from every page in the dog magazines that are sent to them free of charge.

Breeders want to get those ten points that make up a CKC championship, whether their dog warrants it or not, so we enter. Some of us pick our judges--some enter a show in spite of the quality of the judge lineup.

Interestingly enough (and high time) a statement was made at an Ontario show recently when the only day a judge from Ontario was judging Great Danes, they had the lowest number of entries. The other three days, with Australian judges, the entries were above normal.

I don't believe the over-all lower entries at shows are due to the economic downturn or the price of gas . . . or the hike in entry fees.

I believe we're just tiring of paying dollars to get the opinion of those who don't know or don't care about our breeds. Some of our judges seem to just be going through the motions.

No matter, we go to shows, we socialize, we discuss, we congratulate, we share our passion for our dogs.

Imagine dog shows being more like stock shows--where breeders come together to consider and inspect one anothers stock objectively, without professional handlers, or ribbons or a Best In Show rosette. A place where breeders and interested parties gather to compare, discuss, learn and share.

I'M NO JUDGE BUT . . . .

2010-02-18T03:52:00.000-08:00

I ordered Pet Planet channel on Tuesday for one reason--to watch the four hour coverage of the 134th Westminster Kennel Club dog show. It was an extra three dollars for the month--a small price to pay to watch the best of the best, the 'champions-only' dog show.

Tuesday's coverage included the sporting, terrier and working groups--the working group being the draw for me.

Here's the link:

http://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/2010/video/breed/index2.html

These breeds were bred for the most part as the muscle of the dog world--the group of dogs who use their brains or brawn to serve man, either for herding, protection or rescue, engaging in some sort of physical activity to serve the hand that feeds and pats them.

There are twenty-six breeds in the AKC working group. From the handsome Akita, who was used for hunting bear and sled work, to the Pyrenean Mountain dog--the Great Pyrenees, used for guarding livestock--to my breed of choice, the Great Dane, who was (and still is in some places) used not only to hunt but also bring down wild boar and bear. As well they were used as estate guards.

Just as an Olympian's body is a well-toned, muscled, finely-tuned machine, the mind and body of a working dog should be the same.

This must be evident in everything from a balanced mental attitude to the structural balance necessary for the physical functions the breed was originally required to perform.

At this show, in the working breeds, there was an abundance of very healthy-appearing dogs, coats glistening (hope so after spending hours with the groomer), eyes bright, and all the dogs strangely thrilled to be in a arena crammed full of people (record attendance of 32,000+), under glaring bright lights, where the temperature would have to have reached 75F degrees plus.

These dogs did what any dog worth its salt does best . . . please its owner or in many cases at shows, please the pro-handler, who it's been handed over to at ring-side,whether or not it's familiar with the handler. Most dogs knows their job in the ring and will perform with whoever is on the other end of the leash.

Perform . . . hmm, well, I guess that depends on what we're talking about. Conformation show performance is a vast ring away from function and ability.

In the ring, the dog gets to run in a straight line forward and return, then run around in a circle so a judge can evaluate/determine the quality of its movement (coming and going) and gait/fluidity of movement, top line, etc. (going around).

I'm no judge although I do enjoy studying movement on any dog, whether it's a mixed breed loping along the waterfront or a dog performing in the show ring.

One structural issue kept catching my attention in almost every breed I watched.

Toeing in.

We would refer to the same problem in humans as being pigeon-toed and steps would be taken to correct this.

Samoyeds, rotties, boxers, danes; no breed seems exempt from this structural flaw.

How have these dogs managed to win BIS's and more than their fair share of group placements around the country?? What the heck is going on???

The AKC Great Dane standard dictates "neither toeing in, toeing out, nor rolling to the inside or outside."

Do judges not notice there are more dogs toeing-in than not? I have mentioned this problem to a few breeders and judges and am met with, "Well, yes but the dog's side movement is wonderful!"

Alright, so if we are averting our eyes from the designated pattern of the coming and going in the show ring and putting more weight on the side gait (some folks believe side gait should make up 70% of the movement evaluation), why do we even put them through the coming and going?

It's surely there for a reason. I understood it's to assess front and rear action. The dog's movement, is it clean? Does the dog move too close behind? Is it hocky? Does it single-track? Is the dog paddling? Crabbing? Is it elbowing out? Winging? Does the dog TOE-IN or out?

Perhaps so many dogs exhibit this fault that judges have decided to turn a blind eye to focus on the dog's positive attributes instead, since no dog is without faults.

I guess it all depends on what faults are more acceptable and which are viewed as lesser in the eye of the beholder.

Maybe somewhere down the road we'll be bringing the dogs into the ring and they can be judged soley on the best stack!

But come on--these are working breeds!

Movement is a measure of a dog's conformation.

Conformation is the reflection of the function of a breed.

Change a dog's movement and you change a dog's conformation.

I just didn't realize how wide-spread the problem of toeing-in has become across the board. It's a pity.

CAMELS and GOATS and LLAMAS--OH MY!

2010-02-15T18:31:00.000-08:00

Since 2008, we in Ontario have celebrated 'Family Day', a provincial holiday, the third Monday in February. Communities across the province celebrate in different ways.

I couldn't help notice the street bustling with activity so early on a holiday morning as we headed down to the beach for our early morning exercise.

The restaurants full of families enjoying some time together, the stores open, bringing in much-needed revenue in one of the deadest months for any community that draws a great portion of its dollars from the summer-months tourist trade -good plan!

On the beach there are so many people wandering along the boardwalk it could be a day in July save for the cold wind and thin cover of snow still holding on.

Where all these owners and their dogs are other days remains a mystery to me but they're out in force today, taking advantage of the off-leash privileges we enjoy.

After meeting and greeting and playing with a select few, we head home via Kew Beach Park for some well-deserved breakfast.

Journey is leashed up but instead of heeling at my side, she's pulling me forward, her nose high in the air-scenting something....I check around for any raccoons who might be getting home later than they should be. Nope.

Perhaps an in-tact male has been here before us and left a pee-mail scent she's sussing out. Nope.

There's an excited urgency in her movement now as she drags me along behind her. As we round the corner I understand.

There, at the top of the park, are two camels. There's a whole petting zoo as part of the Family Day celebrations.

Forgiving Journey my throbbing shoulder, we move toward the area. Journey is now beside herself with wonder. I guess she always thought she was the biggest animal in this park!

Dogs always greet the scent of an unknown species with joy and bafflement. I can almost hear the wheels going round in Journey's brain as she tries to categorize these creatures. Her predator instinct kicks in and she realizes this is prey....somewhat daunting in stature though!

I love to see any dog connect with its inner-hunter-function and instinct in balance! Unfortunately there are far too few people who will ever experience this magic with their dogs.

Journey has now pulled herself up to taller than her full height, jowls puffing, nose quivering, shaking with excitement as we draw nearer.

I'm not a fan of petting zoos. There's no joy at all for me in watching these magnificent creatures in a pen smaller than I'd ever consider keeping anything larger than a guinea pig in. There are people three-deep around every pen, kids prodding the animals and poking them with whatever is handy.

My heart cries silently as I watch a kid with her father sitting on one of the camels. She is complaining because her ice cream has fallen off the cone and is slowly dribbling down the camel's coat.

Journey's nose is poking through the fence gathering information on these monsters who've invaded her park.

We visit the alpacas-with their dark brown liquid pools for eyes.

We stay a safe distance from the llamas, who are known chargers. They make it clear they are not intimidated in the least by Journey's inquisitiveness and will take care of her if she crosses the line!

The goats were for the most part friendly enough with her, although when the female started to paw the ground and lower her head, I realized I'd best move Journey back a safe distance.

An announcement came over a loud speaker letting us know the doggy dress-up contest was starting at the gazebo in the center of the park.

We opted out of that and left the crowds, heading home.

Journey was exhausted when we got home. After filling her belly, she curled up wearily. Her whimperings and movements as she lay sleeping told me she was free now to give chase to those camels and goats and llamas---oh my!

A SOUR TURN

2010-02-14T17:55:00.000-08:00

We had some friends come visit from out-of-town today, accompanied by their sweet, if not overly self-conscious and insecure Great Dane.

Although a bit colder and windier than what's comfortable, there was sunshine! We bundled up and headed out to the beach for some off-leash time.

As we neared Kew Beach Skating Rink, it was evident from the cacaphony of sounds there were families out on the ice, enjoying the day.

It was as we rounded the boards that my day took a sour turn.

There, tied to the fencing, sitting on the frozen snow was a chocolate lab, shivering and staring in at the rink. Behind the dog was what appeared to be a set of ice skates.

I believe most dogs-except perhaps the seniors and infirm, benefit from exercise in our winter climate...if the dog is moving. If on the other paw, the dog is tied up, can't move more than one foot in any direction and its body starts to shiver-that's not good....or acceptable.

I really tried to ignore the situation and move along with my company toward the beach but ended up doubling back. My dog and I approached the shivering dog and I knew before I gave it a pat on the head what my responsibility was.

I approached the entrance of the rink and questioned in a loud voice, "who does this dog belong to?"

A male came skating over, followed by a female and told me he owned the dog.

I told him the dog was shivering and perhaps it needed to get inside and warm up.

The owner got a bit prickly at this point and told me to 'take your self-righteous attitude elsewhere.'

I could feel my blood-pressure warming up my body and had to ask him why oh why would he not take the dog for a walk, take it home then go skating??

He and his female partner then became verbally abusive. The dog still sat shivering.

When I caught up to my company (and their dog patiently waiting to get to the off-leash area) I offered my apologies for what they had to wait through.

For the record---dog walking is a separate activity from....grocery-shopping, stopping into a restaurant for a beverage and brunch, going into the local bar for a few.

For the past 7 or 8 years, I've been walking the same route with my dogs. This isn't the first time I've come across similiar sights. In the cold of winter or the heat of the summer pavement.

Last year, I contacted Parks & Rec and requested they consider making a by-law disallowing tying up dogs while enjoying a vigorous, body-warming workout on the ice.

There's no signage on or around the rink, so I assume my suggestion/request fell on deaf ears.

Too bad for the dogs.

SO-- WHAT'S IT ALL MEAN?

2010-02-12T18:48:00.000-08:00

Now that hip x-rays are done, I have a choice.

I can keep the information to myself and share with those I choose…

I can send them (for a fee) to OFA-Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (America)…

I can send them (for a fee) to OVC-Ontario Veterinary College. (Canada)

Keep in mind veterinarians are not radiologists. They can only offer their opinion as to whether or not the hips will pass or fail.

I had one of my girls, CH. Sandalwood What a Scandal TT x-rayed and the vet I used at the time told me he wouldn't suggest breeding her...her hips wouldn't pass, so not to bother sending in the x-rays. I sent them in anyway and they passed!

OFA is the most widely accepted data -bank for hip evaluation/certification, along with many other tests from thyroid testing to DNA.

Three radiologists, independent of each other, will evaluate and grade the dog's x-rays: Excellent, Good, Fair, Borderline, with the last rating subdivided to denote the severity of Dysplasia---Mild, Moderate or Severe.

I don't understand why there isn't a 'very good' rating in there, as I'm sure there could be a vast difference between 'excellent' and 'good'). When I refer to something as excellent, I mean it's fabulous-great, positively the top. Good on the other paw denotes acceptable.

Good in any survey I've ever seen is always two steps below the excellent rating. Are the dog's hips at the top-end of good--bordering excellent or at the bottom-end, bordering on a fair?

For years, there have been nasty rumours circulating-involving the time of month one sends the x-rays in....if one gets them in between the 1st and 6th of the month (days may vary depending on who you're talking to) they will get a pass-if sent later and OFA has reached their 'passing' quota for the month, you're out of luck.

But don't despair... apparently people have been known to re-submit previously failed x-rays only to get a pass the second time round.

There are also rumours of people downloading a hip clearance certificate ( the same way one can for vaccinations) from the internet, print it out, white-out the dog's personal data, insert their own dog's data, et voila-their dog has a hip clearance of 'excellent'! Of course in this case, there would be no such dog listed on the OFA site but one would, I assume, produce said fake certificate to show to prospective puppy owners.

Once you've submitted your x-rays to OFA, if they fall within the first three classifications-excellent, good or fair, you/your dog gets a number and the rating becomes public domain, which anyone can view on the OFA site.

If the dog on the other paw gets a borderline; mild, moderate or severe report, the owner of the dog can choose to keep the information from the public/open data base.

What???

Well, that's most considerate-but it really doesn't help the cause. I believe if you choose to send the x-rays in to be evaluated-let the public see the results.

Then there are the unethical persons ( and they are out there-probably on KIJIJII) who confidently and proudly state their dog has had its hips x-rayed and leave it at that...without mentioning the results of the tests!!

Another choice is OVC at the University of Guelph, in Ontario.

OVC terminated their hip evaluations a couple of years ago for a short while but now have fully re-instated the program. OVC offers a 'Pass' without any sub-grading or a rating of Grade I-IV. With no sub-grading-did the hips pass just by a hair or are they excellent?

So this shows the comparison between the two rating systems:

OVC.............................OFA

Normal/Pass................Excellent

Normal/Pass................Good

Normal/Pass................Fair

Grade I........................ Borderline

Grade II.......................Mild Dysplasia

Grade III......................Moderate Dysplasia

Grade IV......................Severe Dysplasia

There's an interesting 'By Breed Dysplasia Statistics' list from OFA here: http://www.offa.org/hipstatbreed.html

When all is said and done, the rating should be a firm guideline for any serious breeder…which dog/line to keep in your breeding program and which to steer away from.

Unfortunately, just because the sire and dam both test clear of dysplasia, does not guarantee a litter of pups free of the disease.

It does however stack the odds in your favour that it won't be present!

HIP HIP HOORAY!

2010-02-11T04:08:00.000-08:00

I'm planning on breeding my almost 3-year old girl in the near future. In order to ensure I've done all I can to produce healthy puppies, I will do some health testing. I won't be getting every test that's available but will cover the basics--heart, thyroid, hip x-rays and brucellosis. I expect the male we settle on using to have documentation on passing the same tests.

Hip xrays are an emotional test for any ethical breeder to do. If the dog's hips don't get a 'pass' on evaluation---you shouldn't breed your dog--no matter how beautiful it is or how many 'Best In Breed/Group' the dog has won!

Two weeks ago, I started searching for a veterinarian to do the hip x-rays. I wanted to ensure the same tragedy didn't take place as did with my last dog I got hip x-rays done on.

I had taken her to a vet who does alot of hip clearances. The selling point for me, although quite a drive to this vet's place, was a foam cradle that's placed on the exam table to hold the dog still and in place while the x-rays are being done. That also means the dog is not resting its spine on the hard steel tabletop.

After she had a light tranquilizer they were ready to do the x-ray. I asked if I could be of help getting her onto the table but they declined my offer and asked me to 'stay back.' Three of them hoisted her up onto the table and into the cradle. Within seconds, my girl, whose care I had entrusted to two vet techs and a veterinarian, squirmed out of their grip and fell three feet to the floor...onto her back.

Needless to say their warning to 'stay back' was no longer my concern. I was there beside her, helping her up and trying to calm her.

I then told them I would help get her back up onto the table. I figured we were there, she had been sedated-we might as well finish this nightmare and be done with it. I was standing at her head, calming her and we got the x-rays.

Never to return to that clinic, thank you!

Enter Dr. John and the Caledon Mountain Veterinary Hospital http://www.caledonvet.com/ in the delightful town of Caledon; which by the way, has been awarded the 'safest town to live in' in Canada for two years running (Macleans Magazine).

The receptionist connected me with a vet tech who I shared my concerns and past experience with. She patiently assured me they too had a cradle to place the dog in and had never had a dog squirm out of their grasp while on the table (would she have divulged this info??!). I decided to make an appointment.

This time, I brought along two people who I knew to have an abundance of calm, positive energy and who my girl is very fond of...just in case (thank you Mishelle & Sean!).

Dr. John and everyone who works along with him were very personable and caring. They spent the time needed to get to know the patient (Journey) before 'the hoist'. I was able to help put her onto the table, into the foam, without too much ado. I watched Dr. John gently place her rear legs into the required position (full extension) for a good read, then stepped quickly out of the little room while he did the x-ray. He asked me to keep talking to her through the door to keep her calm.

Journey squirmed abit--it's such an unnatural position for any dog to be placed in at anytime by anyone--especially in a place that's foreign to them! That position is usually savoured by a very relaxed, sleepy dog in the comfort, privacy and security of its own den.

X-rays done, Journey was carefully guided off the table and placed back onto the floor.

It was done!!

We met in an examination room where Dr. John spent more time, discussing the results of the x-rays. He put them up on a monitor and patiently outlined the details...the depth of the ball in the socket, the tightness of the fit into the socket, the roundness of the ball, the lack of any arthritic changes--all very much desired in a hip evaluation!

Hip Hip Hooray!!

I will follow-up tomorrow--x-rays done...now what?

COMMENTS: 1

I relate to the nightmare with hip x-ray. Just been through that recently. I had to find a new vet clinic to my hips, since the one that has done mine for years is gone now. The new place I decided to try was a nightmare....so now I'm still looking!! At least you found a good one in the end. :o)

D.W.

IT'S IN THE BAG

2010-01-20T14:05:00.000-08:00

I don't profess to have an understanding of human nature--what makes people behave the way they do and the why behind it. There's a bucket-full of behaviors I'll never comprehend, mostly because I'd much rather spend my time dealing with animal behavior-something far more enriching and rewarding...it balances me.

I take my dog out every day--three or four times. We head down to the off-leash on the beach once a day for some serious exercise; the other walks are on-leash around the neighbourhood.

Because I'm a responsible dog owner, my pockets always have bags and treats in them. Treats because I'm a sucker and all the dogs in the neighbourhood can see me coming (poor starving lot!) and bags to stoop & scoop. Which I do--everytime! Have done for years. I stoop, pick up, tie the bag and deposit it in the nearest receptacle available. I don't dump it in recycle bins along our way-I wait until I come to a public trash bin (preferably on the boardwalk).

There is in this city an ugly movement afoot. A secret club perhaps, with a whole lot of individuals who are displaying some strange behavior.

I'm speaking of the practice of stooping and scooping, tying a neat knot in the bag, then dropping the bag onto the ground. The base of a tree seems to be a favourite target for these goody bags.

It's in the bag----! The tough part is over. Your knees and back a little worse for wear but you'll live to see another walk. What kind of behavior is that??? And why???

What possesses you to just drop a full bag of poop? I have to have something to go on here...

Perhaps the bag gets too heavy and you suddenly get a cramp and the muscles in your hand release involuntarily?

Is there a touch of Alzheimers and you forget where the bag came from, worrying you may be carrying contraband?

Maybe you are a single person and you see a potential suitor approaching. You're concerned the scent now emanating from the bag is over-riding your carefully chosen cologne?

My money is on human laziness-you're just too damn lazy to carry it once you've picked it up. The bag colour doesn't go with your ensemble and besides--you picked it up and put it in a bag-why should you have to walk farther with it?

It would be better if you just left the poop on the ground unbagged...it will break-down eventually.

Your dog has done what you took it out to do-now you can drop the bag and leave it for someone else to pick up, take the dog home and get on with your life--

Guess I do understand human nature after all.

(all bags I took pictures of today I picked up and disposed of)

PRIORITIES...

2010-01-03T03:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! May happiness and health lead you through 2010!

No matter how much I choose to down-play the commercialization of the Christmas season, I get caught up in the energies madly swirling around me like an invisible snow blizzard. My priorities are tinged with echoes of marketing ditties dancing in my head mixed in with the infernal muzak being piped into my brain whenever I enter a store or mall.

I remember a time when all that was played in the stores at Christmastime were hymns that soothed the soul and reflected the meaning of the season. Now the frenzied tunes played reflect a different message--the marketers dream---buy, purchase, consume-!

There are cards to send, gifts to choose and wrap, parcels to mail, decorating to be completed, baking to be done, salon appointments, brunches with friends we don't see enough through the year, open houses to attend, relatives visiting from out-of-town--the list goes on. No wonder there's a spike in heart-attacks from Christmas Eve to New Year's Day!!

Our daily schedules are thrown so off-kilter. There is added stress in our households even if just due to time restraints. Our dogs pick up on the energies.

It's important to keep your dog's walking schedule. Let it get out and socialize too and run off all that energy it's been picking up on---you'll find you don't have to worry about it tearing up wrapping paper or acting out for some of your attention if it has an outlet too!

I haven't the luxury of a fenced backyard where I can just open a door at 7:00 a.m or 10:00 p.m when the wind is howling, embedding ice crystals into the window screens and I'm cozy-warm in my favourite bathrobe.

If she is crossing her legs at the door, it's my duty to don my clothing (all four layers!) and answer her call to nature.

Anyone who knows me, knows this for certain--when I plan any activity, it falls between my dog's walks.

'Let's go downtown tomorrow-get some shopping done'.

'Alright-we'd have to leave around 10:a.m. I have to be back by latest 3:00-".

'Kerry's having a Christmas party-we should get there by 8:p.m.'

'Sure-I can go for a couple of hours-I would want to get home by 10:00'.

Just my choice in keeping my dog on a schedule no matter what the season or reason, when it's within my power to do so.

It's my time with my home companion. A walk releases stress for both of us. It's good for the soul-

Not alot to sacrifice for the joy she brings into my life every day of the year!!

S H A M E ON THS

2009-11-26T18:03:00.001-08:00

Humane: Main Entry: hu·mane
Pronunciation: \hyü-ˈmān, yü-\
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English humain
Date: circa 1500
1 : marked by compassion, sympathy, or consideration for humans or animals. (Merriam-Webster)

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto/toronto-humane-society-officials-arrested-charged-with-cruelty-to-animals/article1378385/

From Tim Trow, the 'combative man with a sharp temper' (should have known--he's a former provincial civil servant) to the head veterinarian Steve Sheridan, the shelter manager Gary McCracken, the manager Romeo Bernadino and the shelter supervisor Andy Bechtel--as well as the Society's board of directors...even Art Eggleton, an ex-Mayor, is not without his role in this horror.

I tell you-you'd certainly not have intimidated me the way you supposedly intimidated staff members. You see, I own a dog-I pick pieces of shit up like you every day and put it where it belongs--into the garbage.

Let me make myself very clear--Tim Trow and his lot don't deserve to get off with spending six months in jail and a fine of a couple of thousand dollars!

I've no doubt they've embezzelled enough funds to pay that kind of fine ten times over and they would look damn good behind bars, where, if there's any justice, they would be as ill-treated by their fellow inmates as they themselves treated those poor innocents! They certainly do not deserve court time paid for by the public!!?

Tim Trow deserves to simmer in a vat of feces and urine, along with his fellow scum. By the sound of things--it best be an extra-large sized vat.

From charges of “fiscal irresponsibility, improper conduct of society business,” and "implementing policies causing cruelty to animals", hurting the very animals they were supposed to heal and protect--to obstruction of justice charges through hiding animals from investigators during the investigation, this reads like a combination of a medieval horror b-movie and the political scandals exploding on front-pages of newspapers everyday, spinning our society out-of-control!

My heart is sick---I feel as if my faith has been undermined.

Let's just hope the investigation leads to prosecution of the scum involved in this whole THS scandal....or said individuals may have to deal with a roadside-type of justice when they next walk down a street...hmmm---a gal can dream!

THE VOTES ARE IN!!

2009-11-06T18:50:00.000-08:00

For years dogs have been allowed to run loose on the Beach in Toronto. Until 2007, when the city adopted a new off-leash dog policy.

The city was prepping for the desired 'Blue Flag Beach' designation and felt dogs being on the sand/waterfront would affect Lake Ontario's water quality.

Due to the overwhelming response by Beach dog owners and the backing of dog owners all over the city, on October 15th, council agreed to allow dogs free-run on the beach, south of the snow fence, during the winter months (November 1st-March 31st).

Although City councillor Sandra Bussin (Beaches East-York) would like to take the praise for this compromise, I don't think it could have come about without backing from City Parks and Environment as well as every dog owner who attended meetings and gave deputations at council.

After all-Bussin was the one who pushed getting the dogs off the beach---only to do an about-face after her latest bad press due to her phone-in to a radio talk show--but I digress....that's a whole other story!

Dogs can now get more of the exercise they need. This is especially important in an urban setting. Dogs without proper exercise in a city can lead to alot of frustrated, leash-dominant dogs.

In the off-leash areas in the beach, people tend to stand around chatting while the dogs stick fairly close to their people.

On the waterfront, people tend to walk-usually a fair strip of the beachfront, enabling the dogs to get more exercise, still meeting other dogs along the way, so there's time for socialization too.

Who else is going to plod along, hip-high in snow on the beach in the worst storm, while our companions race around burrowing and rolling in snow up to their ears, chasing snowballs for whoever will toss them (I've never been too sure whether this performance is more for our benefit--after all, they take their talents very seriously-they rejoice in entertaining human beings).

Little dogs, big dogs, old dogs and puppies will all be having a happier, healthier winter thanks to the freedom the beach allows. If you're walking your dog with any regularity down on the beach during the winter months, you'll be healthier too! A little sore and stiff the first couple of times... but this too shall pass.

There's nothing like a walk along the beach with your companion...it's nourishment for the soul.

The Human Element

2009-08-18T16:44:00.000-07:00

I enjoy walking along the waterfront-I love to take photos of the swans and geese, the sky, cloud formations, approaching weather, dogs playing, the ever-changing shoreline...the frailties of nature.

Dogs are not permitted on our beach--on or off-leash. There are signs posted, warning of hefty fines should the animal control officers who proudly patrol the boardwalk find you and/or your dog down at the waterfront--or anywhere on the sand...even if you're just being a responsible dog owner, allowing your friend the luxury of cooling off in the lake while lapping up some much-needed water during these dog days of summer.

Its the new 'Blue Flag Beach' designation...or perhaps city council is just using that as an excuse for yet another cash grab.

With another promised hot and muggy day in the forecast, we started our walk earlier than usual this morning, in hopes of taking advantage of what little breeze might be down at the waterfront. (yes, we were on the sand, yes, Journey was off-leash enjoying a swim and a drink!)

I took a look around at our precious Blue Flag Beach, that's far too pristine, far too people-user-friendly to ever consider allowing dogs on it on the off-chance an irresponsible owner might forgo cleaning up after their friend.

In absolute shock and disgust I leashed Journey up--the beach wasn't fit for my dog to be using-illegally or otherwise. No dog-owner would ever allow any property their dog frequented to fall into this state! Only the human influence was at work here.

I met three tourists, wandering along the beach, who'd stopped to admire Journey. They told me they were from Europe. I asked them if any of the beaches over there looked like this one...

They were quick to tell me 'never would one of our beaches over there look like this...people over there love the beaches'.

Perhaps dogs being on the beach should be the least of city council's worries--get those animal control officers who love to give out tickets to give them out to the real culprits and save our beach from the human element!!

Good Luck To You!

2009-07-15T19:03:00.000-07:00

In the past month, on our daily walks through the neighbourhood, we've been meeting so many new puppies.

All owned by young couples, who've purchased their first starter homes in preparation for their future family. Along with that follows the prerequisite puppy.

It's heart-warming to watch the attention they devote to their new four-pawed baby as they teach it to walk on a leash, proudly introducing it to any passerby who comments on the cuteness scale of said new baby (puppy).

One couple who introduced me to their new charge explained they got the pup as practise before starting their human family.

Don't get a puppy unless you're ready to have a baby. That's my suggestion. The only difference is -a baby will grow up!

As far as care, time and energy expelled goes-there's not much difference.

There's the early morning and late night schedule, there's care during the day while you're at work. There's rousing yourself out of bed on what used to be those lazy-stay-in-bed Sunday mornings. Throwing on your hat, snow boots, gloves, jacket and scarf in under one minute and heading out in blizzard conditions cause 'baby' just has to go now (at least you can diaper a baby!!).

No more meeting with friends for a drink/dinner and a movie after work on Friday to celebrate another work week over. Nope-you'll be racing home hoping you can get there before much more damage can be done to the pups newest chew-toy-your leather sofa.

And what of the three-week vacation and family reunion plans? Which of your friends will be good enough to come and take up residence for the duration?

Or will you choose to kennel your baby? (which I never suggest) If so-which kennel? How much will the daily cost of kenneling cut into your poolside margarita allowance?

How will you choose the kennel? How does one choose who they can trust the care of their baby to without checking references?

What if baby is sick and needs medical attention to the tune of $2500.00? Or needs someone at home during the day for a week? He/she is not covered under your medical benefits (at least not the last time I checked).

There's a good reason to invest in pet insurance. Take heart though, insurance shouldn't cost more monthly than the drinks/dinner and movie you won't be enjoying anymore on a Friday night!

Not to forget the daily dog-walker you will need for the first year, until puppy has matured enough to be able to wait, legs crossed, for the moment you return home.

You can quickly change out of one of the few suits or dresses you have that aren't covered with dog hair and take baby out for some socializing (even though all you really feel like doing is slipping into a luxurious bubble bath or changing clothes and heading off for a quick game of tennis before turning on the BBQ.).

Nope-unless you're ready to have a baby...don't think getting a puppy is going to be any easier!

When all is said and done--your new sofa has been purchased and the carpeting has been replaced....when you realize you needed to buy a closet-full of new shoes and boots anyway...when years later, you look into your old friend's eyes as he/she gazes up at you with complete trust, as if you are the most wonderful person the world has ever known, you'll know all that work and devotion was worth it!

Good luck to all the brave people who choose to welcome a four-pawed baby into their busy lives!

Stick with it--it'll be one of the most fulfilling experiences of your life!

An Indefensible Act

2009-07-14T19:26:00.000-07:00

Early morning on the beach is wonderful!! The sun glistening on the water, heating up the sand.... a couple of miles of shoreline to run and play on-what dog could ask for more?

I try to get to the beach everyday, not just for my dog's sake but it's good for the soul. Balances me. I relax and appreciate the beauty nature has to offer. I enjoy this special time with my dog, while I laugh at her antics and appreciate her performances, whether it's clearing the shore of geese or chasing full-speed after imaginary prey, I am 'in the moment' with her.

As we shared time yesterday morning, strolling down the beach, I was brought back to reality when I heard someone calling. I looked up to see a police officer pointing at me, telling me to 'leave the area.'

I knew we weren't supposed to be on the beach since the by-law enforcers were ordered to start ticketing any dog owners who were on the sand earlier in the spring but they were on strike along with the CU PE 416 union here in Toronto.

I assumed I was about to get a ticket from a police officer but she wasn't coming toward me. She and another officer, along with two other people were huddled around a volleyball post. I kept walking but leashed my girl.

The officer called over to me again, telling me to 'walk the other way-get away from the area.'

I complied...slowly, readying my camera for what I wasn't sure.

We deeked around behind some bushes on the boardwalk and studied the situation more closely.

I saw they were surrounding two Akita/German Shepherd mixes.

These dogs were heavyweights. Well-muscled and frantic. They had hog poles around their necks and they were giving their captors a rough time.

After they secured the dogs in the Animal Service van, I approached them and asked what had happened.

Apparently, the dogs had been abandoned there-tied up on a foot of leash to a volleyball pole and left. They had been there quite awhile-perhaps even over-night--they were frightened, thirsty and hungry.

Our walk had taken a sour turn and as Journey and I made our way home, I wondered what kind of person-what situation would lead anyone to behave in such a heartless manner toward an animal who trusted them.

If these dogs were abandoned due to financial stress, any number of rescue clubs and services are always available with a phone call. Abandoning is an indefensible act!

I'll never get used to just how low some humans can stoop. Any lower and they can just slither along the ground with the lowly snake.

UPDATE on 'The Difference is in the Details' Post

2009-07-13T15:31:00.000-07:00

Just an update on my post, 'The Difference is in the Details.'

I've received quite a few comments re this post and thought I'd share them in case some people are too busy to go in and open a google account to post or read thoughts/comments.

Some of the comments have come to me via email, some unfortunately I can't post as they are far too descriptive as to what they would do to this breeder. I wouldn't feel right sullying my blog with some of those words. (Although I agree with the writers' thoughts and ideas!)

This poor dog, unfortunately, due to the ignorance of the person who bought it, has been returned to the same puppy miller!!!

When you add to this puppy farmer, a broker interested only in the dollars and a person gullible enough to put money into their hands, it's always and only the dog who suffers.

This poor dog didn't have a chance from day one, being brought into the world by someone who looks at this beautiful, majestic and most noble breed as nothing more than a commodity.

Here are the comments:

***Yes. This guy is Dale Tucker of Danefleet.He is a sick and demented man who harasses women as well.***

***Excellent article on "Dale"***

***It makes me so sick .I just wish that someone will actually do something this time***

***With the copy at the bottom of the picture, this picture would surely win an award. Good stuff!***

***Well said, Deborah! As always, I admire your fearlessness to tell it like it is.....***

***Great Job Deborah. Sad to see...Another famous place to obtain these poor dogs is the pet store... ***

***He shouldn't even be allowed to own dogs. Good for you for finally exposing him for what he is.***

I will be updating on any and all news to do with this case. when I get info.

Loose Wires

2009-07-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

When I opened my front door this morning, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a brand new dog toy laying on the mat.

Some well-meaning person had purchased a rope toy for my girl, or 'the beast' as she is affectionately known around the neighbourhood. It's not the first time I've received gifts for my dogs in this manner-left by a friend or neighbour as they've passed by.

A ball with a braided rope attached to it-made for a medium-sized dog. It's difficult for folks who are unfamiliar with the giants to gauge the size of toy or bones a Great Dane can safely play with. What a Golden Retriever or German Shepherd owner refers to as a large bone or large toy can become something too small and unsafe for the enormous mouths of a giant breed.

This gift wasn't in a bag or the manufacturer's wrapping, which didn't concern me as most of the dog toys at the local pet stores hang on display on pegs. The person who performed this act of kindness had carefully cut off the tags, readying it for my girl to enjoy.

I offered the new treasure to Journey as she lay patiently on her bed waiting for me to finish getting ready for our morning walk. She was delighted and started to inspect it immediately.

Five minutes later I was ready to leave. I waited at the door with leash in hand and she appeared, still holding her new treasure in her mouth. I agreed to take it with us but when I pulled it from her mouth, I saw traces of blood on the rope.

Then I noticed blood seeping from a little cut at the corner of her lip.

Dropping my girl's leash, I knelt down to check her over. Once I determined the cut was minor (it was a long way from her heart!), I hurried into the kitchen to examine the source of the problem--the ball-on-a-rope toy.

Needless to say, Journey was now concerned with why I was 'playing' with her toy in the kitchen, while she stood at the door with leash on, waiting to go out.

The tennis ball was connected to the braided rope by two pieces of fine metal wire. Very shabby workmanship. (sure hope this manufacturer isn't making baby toys too!!) The wires weren't even embedded in the rope, they were wrapped around it and hidden by electrical tape wound around them.

I was able to remove what was left of the electrical tape easily with my hands-as well as pull the wires from around the rope.

By now, Journey was studying me with concern, wondering why I was 'ruining' her perfectly good (albeit dangerous) treasure.

All was not lost as I grabbed the rope part and we were off on our walk. (I, sporting a few more white hairs!)

She would get to play with part of her new toy.

I checked with the two local pet shops in our area and it was with great relief I found neither sell this particular brand of rope toy.

I can only assume it comes from a dollar store. I will ferret out the manufacturer of this dangerous piece of garbage and have a conversation with them.

Had the wire loosened while Journey chewed on the toy...had she swallowed it, I'm not sure surgery would have been enough to save her, had she not choked on it, it surely would have punctured an artery or some organ.

Take the time to check every toy carefully. Don't just assume because a pet store sells it, it's safe and please don't purchase any toys from dollar stores.

We were fortunate--this story could have had a very different ending!

The Difference is in the Details

2009-07-04T17:49:00.000-07:00

So--I receive an email with images of a starving, sickly, scared and badly scarred Great Dane. I (and everyone else who was sent these pics) am appalled at the state this poor dog is in. I'm informed the 'breeder' of this dog is under investigation by one of the SPCA's.

Unfortunately, I'm all too familiar with the breeder (and I use the term here very loosely!). Many of us, who truely love the breed and work toward breeding healthier Danes with greater longevity--that is-not just for profit, have been concerned with this person's lack of ethics and knowledge for some years now.

He breeds Great Danes in the Wainfleet, Ontario area.

Sometimes the line between a reputable breeder and a puppy miller appears to be a fine one. Murky gray as opposed to crisp black and white.

By definition, a puppy mill is a large-scale breeding operation that produces large numbers of puppies for profit. The owners are many times unconcerned with health checks or breeding their 'best' animals-more often than not they don't do any health checks and they breed any animal of breeding age, not once or twice in it's lifetime but every time it comes into season throughout the animals life until, in the dog's twilight years, no longer able to produce puppies, it's simply 'disposed of' with no more thought given it than disposing of an old, bald tire.

These vermin give no thought to the animal's well-being, only their own profit. They are unethical in every sense of the word.

Most puppy millers don't go to the added expense of registering their litters and individual pups with the governing organization for purebred dog registry's...here in Canada, it's the Canadian Kennel Club (each country has it's own national registry).

This man does register his puppies, last time anyone checked....but that's about the extent of his care (after all a registered dog brings a better dollar!).

He also uses a broker...

A broker is a person in the world of breeding, who mediates between a buyer and a seller--the middleman, who is paid a percentage of the profit from a sale. A breeder employs a broker when they need a party to hide behind--for various reasons.

Their interest is purely financial, as is the interest of the breeder using them.

What ethical breeder wouldn't belong to a provincial breed club or the National breed club of their chosen breed?

This man, (who was mentored by a woman who was also a puppy miller-who showed no compassion to the poor dogs and would joke about abusing them!) is persona non gratis in both of the clubs representing Great Danes here in Ontario!!

What ethical breeder would out-source the selling of their puppies?? What breeder worth their salt would not want to represent themselves, meet potential puppy owners and personally check references??

This person who doesn't care about where his dogs end up-doesn't give them another thought after the money has changed hands, has no business referring to himself as a 'breeder.'

Unfortunately, he is not the only person in our breed who is guilty of these practices. He is one we know though and we can only hope Revenue Canada and the SPCA investigations will bare fruit.

We are onto him-and will spread the word whenever, however we can. It certainly is 'buyer beware' where his Great Dane care and management is concerned! If you're looking for a Great Dane, do yourself a favour--stay away from a broker in the Hamilton area and a breeder in the Wainfleet area.

It's Your Responsibility

2009-07-03T19:25:00.000-07:00

As we make our way over to the off-leash area, I do a quick check to see which dogs are in the enclosure.

There are three dogs at this end of the fenced-in area. One is conscious of our approach-a small mixed breed (I like to call them-Canadian Classics). He has approached the fence and is running back and forth barking at us. It's a contagious energy, as the other two-medium-sized dogs, who've now been alerted to a situation, are dutifully following behind the self-proclaimed leader of the pack, wondering what all the fuss is about.

I'm surprised Mighty-Mutt's owner isn't concerned with all the vocalizing and fence-aggression the dog's displaying but then I realize-the owner probably isn't aware there's anything wrong with this kind of 'welcome.'

The three dogs have gathered at the gate. Before I open the door, I tell them all to sit. The medium-sized dogs comply-the smaller one is in quite a frenzied state, frantic to be the first one to get acquainted with my girl. I wait.

This shouldn't be my responsibility! The owner of the dog is watching from a distance, still in conversation with the other dog owners...he half-heartedly calls the dog once, then returns to the conversation.

Some fancy footwork is necessary as I squeeze through the gate to ensure the little dog doesn't escape. I then invite my girl in.

Journey respectfully stands still, head held high, tail in a playful greeting, until the dogs have made their introductions.

A play-stance from the beagle and three of them are off--chasing, dodging one another and whipping around the bushes. Not Mighty Mutt though...

He is now chasing at my girl's heels, nipping and just generally being obnoxious-the pack is out of control in his opinion. He's striving for dominance. The others are paying him no attention.

Two times during play, Journey has stopped, turned to the little dog and told him to 'back off' by way of a growl. ( 'Can't you see I'm playing, I'm not interested in your energy, leave my hocks alone!!'). He's not deterred.

Before it escalates any further, I step in and leash my dog and we leave the immediate area. I look back and see the two medium-sized dogs playing while Mighty Mutt continues to bark us away.

I could have stayed and let the scene play itself out but instead, as pack leader, I chose not to allow a confrontation. Why the other owners were not hands-on in this mini-drama, I don't know. I do know there are far too many owners who aren't in-tune with their dogs, especially in a social setting where multiple personalities (both canine and human) are at play.

If you see your dog displaying anti-social behavior it's your responsibility to rein him in. Don't leave it for another owner to deal with. Don't call it 'cute' and please don't make excuses for the behavior!

Teach your dog! Know your dog!!

Meet & Greet

2009-06-20T15:09:00.000-07:00

Can it be some owners have no idea how to read the four-footed companion they share their homes with...?

When I'm out on a walk with my girl, I try to exhibit proper dog-walking etiquette--when there is an unfamiliar dog and owner approaching us, I ask if the dog is friendly (safe for my girl to approach) especially when I see body language being exhibited that would lead me to believe otherwise.

The responses vary. "Probably" or "He/she should be alright", are common answers.

Not good enough--sorry!

As an urban dog owner, proper walking etiquette is your responsibility. Your dog has obviously been approached before by a passing dog while out on a walk. If you don't know how your dog is going to react on (or off) leash to greeting another one, then you are not walking your dog enough or you aren't bothering to interpret the signs your dog is sending out....

When dogs who are unfamiliar with one another meet, there is a standard, international, canine conversation that takes place. Although it's not our language, their message should come across to both dog and owner loud and clear. They use body language.

There are distinct signals from both sides. A dog who approaches with a stiff gait, tail up and wagging slowly and stiffly-or not wagging at all, ears erect, ruff up, making himself larger than he is, staring directly into the other dog's eyes ( with intent) is not necessarily welcoming the other into his social circle.

If the other dog displays the expected 'response' to this affront--submissive, making-myself-appear-as-small-as-I-can, tail tucked, in a crouching walk, head turned to one side, eyes downward, ears lowered, depending on the other's temperament, he should be fine.

Unless the dog who appears to be the dominant is really a wanna-be dominant. He's still climbing the ladder and he has something to prove.

A true dominant will very rarely start a fight-they don't need to-their very presence and energy demands respect. They may discipline a dog...but not fight with it. It's below their station in life, unless goaded into it.

If it's a true dominant, then the respect shown is enough...he got his point across and will then find out more about the dog by sniffing his parts. The submissive dog may squirm a little but will attempt to stay as still as possible until the dominant has finished his once-over. Sometimes a dominant will allow the other dog to check him out-but not necessarily.

The dominant will then proudly (and slowly) strut off from his 'conquest', tail held high until out of reach, (never glancing back) at which time he may 'lower the flag' until he sights another dog.

When two dogs meet who are equals, there is a mutual acceptance and admiration. There's the doggy dance-the two-step, where leashes get tangled as they greet each other, circling and sniffing-both dogs tails wagging, even with their back or lower, ears back, mouths parted in a relaxed grin.

There's the very submissive dog who, when approached by any dog, will drop its head as low as it can, sit and be very still, or crouch and maybe urinate. It may drop and roll over onto its back, exposing its neck and stomach area, tail wagging very close to its body, seemingly pleading with the other dog to do it no harm. Many times a young pup will exhibit this same behavior.

When this submissive type is 'released' from the dominant one's examination, some of them are so thrilled no harm came to them, they rejoice by jumping up at the other dog and licking at its mouth area, with a lot of flourish...out of respect and in thanks for being spared.

My girl has an approach to on-coming dogs I've never experienced before. As soon as she observes a dog who will ultimately be passing us, she stops abruptly in her tracks. Head held high, she lifts her tail and wags it, at the same time averting her eyes from the dog by turning her head to the side, as if studying the surrounding scenery. I can coax her along to no avail. She remains rooted to that one spot until the dog has completed his exam and only then will she express any interest in furthering the 'meet and greet.' Very respectful!

So before the tugging on the leash and out-of-control-behavior takes over, there is always subtle body language displayed. Being familiar with these basic signals will allow you time to redirect the energy or dominate the situation before it becomes full-blown and out of hand.

My next post I'll be continuing with body language--what is acceptable after their initial introductions, signals they send to other dogs while playing and the boundaries we should set for them in a play situation.

Woofstock 2009

2009-06-15T05:47:00.000-07:00

With soaring summer temperatures and sunny skies, friends from out of town, along with their giant-sized dog, travelled downtown with me to experience Woofstock--touted by its organizers as the largest outdoor dog festival in North America....'A festival for dogs!'

This 'celebration' for our beloved canines takes place in the St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood. Front Street, a four-lane boulevard from Jarvis Street to Yonge Street and from Market Street South to The Esplanade is closed off to vehicular traffic. That's about six blocks of concrete and store-front sidewalk in the center of downtown Toronto. Line those streets with two hundred vendor booths, over 150,000 people and half as many dogs and you have a marketer's dream.

There were dogs whose coats had been dyed pink, dogs whose feet never touched the ground being carried around in pet carriers, dogs with muzzles on, dogs wearing jogging suits, boas, sun bonnets, running shoes, sun dresses and fancy baubles around their necks.

There were dogs being led around from one booth to the next with a look of total confusion in their eyes. There were dogs who were both over-heated and exhausted. Some just falling asleep at curbside, others panting--searching for that familiar yet elusive plot of grass or tree trunk to relieve themselves on.

There were dogs who were entered in a variety of contests--waiting dutifully in line along with their owner for up to an hour to show off their unusual trick or their best howl.

I didn't get around to 'The Ugliest Dog Contest' and hope the line-up to enter that was a very short one!

There were dogs refusing to mount the stairs to the main stage event-Mr. & Mrs. Canine Canada Pageant, (despite the owners' best efforts) where the dogs were introduced by a squealing MC amid too much fanfare and cheering (and please turn that microphone down, remembering the contestants' sensitive hearing).

One particularly unsettling sight for me was the Petopia On-Site Doggy Daycare. You could bring your companion to the festival and leave it with an unknown care-giver in a giant cage while you shopped. This was not designed with a dog's comfort in mind. There were about seven or eight dogs in the area when I passed by. Two of the dogs (Great Danes) were fortunate enough to have secured a spot on a small, matted area--which was the only shaded space in the pet-care center--the rest of it in full sun. The other dogs were wandering back and forth on the heated pavement, awaiting their owners' return. NOT a service where any dog lover worth their kibble would park their dog!

The Wine and Beer Garden on site invited us to 'bring your dog in at any time.' I'm as much a fan of mixing alcohol and dogs as I am of imbibing while caring for children so we skipped that offer!

The booths and tents, if you could get close enough to them without tripping on the dogs who were allowed to walk (as opposed to being shuffled along in doggy carriages or strapped to their owner's chest in a doggy-carrier) offered everything imaginable to the canine consumer. There was also the unimaginable.

One product I'm still in a quandry over, is the scoop cup. It's a cardboard cup (much the same as french fries are served in) in which you place a plastic bag. You can then pick up your dogs poop without having to feel it through the bag. Pull the bag out, dispose of it, load another one into the container and you're ready for your next poop 'n scoop session. The folks who were demonstrating this invention were having such a difficult time of it that I had to state the obvious--why make it more involving than it is?? KISS (keep it simple, stupid) implies here!

Let's get it straight--this celebration is not for the dogs. If it was for the dogs, it would be held on some grassy expanse, where there's a breeze blowing and plenty of trees to sniff and lift a leg up against. It would be held at a more appropriate time of year-perhaps earlier in the spring or in late September/mid-October, when the sun and air-quality are friendlier.

It would have a pond where dogs could cool off in, instead of a concrete fountain that is full of soapy bubbles of unknown origin!

The booths would be spaced so neither the owner nor the companion got their paws stepped on.

As it is now, it's a field of dreams for marketers. A feeding frenzy for the consumer.

It's a travesty to advertise it as otherwise.

Slobberfest 2009

2009-05-31T16:50:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we celebrated our Beach version of the annual Woofstock-the largest outdoor dog festival in North America.

Our canine community celebrates Slobberfest. This dog-day afternoon is presented by Center 55, our local community center. It's a fund-raiser in support of the many excellent services they offer for children, seniors and families.

The first year I attended this gathering, it was held in Kew Park. In my opinion, a venue better suited to this celebration.

Now, for the second year, it's held parallel to the boardwalk, on the grassy area in front of the old boathouse, also referred to by some as the open-air building. The only pro I can think of for using this space is the accessibility to the off-leash area, directly across the boardwalk.

Journey and I headed down to the site with a friend who'd made her way into Toronto along with her very large-sized dog Walter, to experience the festivities.

A block from our destination, we could hear music in the air-some 60's or 70's tunes blasting from the general direction in which we were heading.

Upon arriving, I noticed the DJ/MC had set up his impressive sound equipment under the shelter of the boathouse, while the booths-about ten of them, were scattered out front along the grass. I had to raise my voice an octave or two to be heard above the music and was wondering about the comfort level of the dogs.

As a responsible dog owner, I appraoched the DJ, and asked if he might consider turning down the volume, explaining a dogs sense of hearing is ten times more acute than a humans. (shouldn't he have been aware of this??)

My friend from out of town commented on the lack of room on the walkway from the boardwalk to the boathouse-the center of the action, where the contests were being held-it was far too narrow. Flanked on either side by booths and tables, there was not room enough for people and dog traffic.

I remember the first year I attended Slobberfest in Kew Park, approaching the organizers with my concerns about their choices of the various contests. I see my concerns fell on deaf ears--

The 'Hot Dog Eating Contest' has dogs bobbing for hot dogs out of a bucket...who can eat the most hot dogs in a given time frame-I think it's a minute.

Does anyone really want to cheer their dog on, under the pressure of a stopwatch, to ingest nitrates, dyes and high sodium in copious amounts?? Great fun I suppose, if your dog is used to eating crap.

I reiterate---with all the quality, natural choices on the canine market, could the organizers not have considered another option? Unconscionable and indefensible.

If that's not enough to make any healthy dog (and any responsible owner) ill, there's the 'Canine Ice Cream Eating Contest.'

All these contests are held in the shade of the boathouse-however the floor is concrete. Why, with so many shade trees couldn't the revelry be held on a grassy area adjacent to the boathouse??

Why can't the organizers get together with doggy people (because they certainly don't seem to be!) and come up with healthier, more challenging contests??

Relay races, hide-and-seek-an-item, fastest response to a given command...are just a few that come to my mind...but come on--chowing down on hot dogs?!

Time for the organizers to give their tails a shake and spend some time and put a little more thought into the planning of this celebration. Perhaps a 'suggestion box?' I'm sure there would be a few good ones to chew on!

Respect The Code!

2009-05-29T18:31:00.000-07:00

Most law-abiding dog-owners in the beach are using the designated off-leash areas to ensure their canines get sufficient exercise and socialization in an attempt to appease the rest of the community and the powers-that-be.

Within the past two weeks, I've been told by multiple sources about two dog fights in the off-leash areas.

These have not been the brief, vocal conflicts where dogs confront one another for momentarily being in one another's space or for nabbing a toy.

Those skirmishes usually only last about ten seconds and it's over. The less dominant ( or less energetic) of the two sustaining no injuries-save for a bruised ego. Not giving it another thought, he returns to his socializing, a rung lower on the ladder.

These fights have been blood-drawing, have-to-break-them-up battles. One owner got his hand badly bitten in his attempt to separate the clashing canines.

The off-leash areas have a 'Code of Conduct' posted at the entrances.

It simply isn't being adhered to-Pit Bulls are running loose, unmuzzled in the partially-enclosed areas, in-tact males are in there, (against the code) dogs who show aggression toward another dog are not being leashed and removed from the space-instead the person who complains about a dogs aggressive behavior has to listen to a flurry of obscenitiesfrom its owner (wonder why the dog is aggressive??!). Dogs who aren't under voice or signal control are not being retrieved and leashed.

As summer approaches, the problems can only escalate.

When tourists from other areas of the city flock to the beach with their canine companions for some sand and sun, the off-leash areas will be the place to exercise them.

It will be culture shock for many dogs who may not be as socially adept as most of our fortunate friends.

If we can't respect other dog owners and the required code, perhaps we should consider having the areas patrolled by impartial parties-who have knowledge of both dog behavior and the code of conduct.

Gentle (?) Leaders

2009-05-24T03:28:00.000-07:00

Advertisments for head collars-the Gentle Leader and the Halti-claim to 'calm the boisterous dog who pulls on the leash.'

Every obedience school, trainer, every expert in the canine field-even veterinarians-are expounding on the excellence of these devices.

Unfortunately, I beg to differ. In my opinion, these collars border on abusive and can lead to injuries, especially when coupled with a flexi-leash. There is no teaching involved with this product.

The concept behind the design is to simulate the pack leaders control by encircling the puppy or dogs snout and lower jaw as well as applying pressure at the scruff of the neck.

Anytime I've watched a dog discipline another dog using this technique, it's done for no more than fifteen seconds, then it's over, with the desired effect, a calm, respectful dog. When the more dominant dog uses this form of discipline, it never leaves a mark-it's done with a firm gentleness.

There are dogs who have permanent hair loss and scars on top of their snouts from these gentle leaders. I'm not even sure where the term leader comes into play. Most dogs I see wearing this contraption are either squirming desparately to get out of it-pawing at their own snouts and rubbing them onto the ground or the skin on their faces is pinched up and twisted, contorting their features so the dog can only see with one eye due to the tautness of the equipment.

I would be concerned with the obvious damage over time, to the cervical vertebrae from the constant twisting motion of the neck as the dogs head is continually yanked sideways. If it's used as a training device for a few weeks, (which I've never seen happen) injuries incurred while wearing one can last a lifetime.

Not all snouts are shaped the same. To offer this product in small, medium and large doesn't make a whole lot of sense (except of course, to the manufacturer!). At the very least, customizing the head gear to reflect the needs of individual breeds would show some basic knowledge of canine structure-and a little intelligence!

Could there be a correlation between the use of this head equipment and the rise in the number of cases of Wobbler's disease in recent years?

Convenience certainly plays a part in its popularity... let's face it, it's far less time-consuming, strapping on the head gear than devoting a couple of weeks teaching the basic etiquette, rules and expectations of walking together.

There is no collar that can take the place of training!

What appears to be a quick and easy fix is not necessarily the best way when dealing with nature.

You'd think by now we'd all have learned that lesson!!

Live Dogs Used As Shark Bait

2009-05-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

With a burdened heart I create this post tonight. It gives me no pleasure at all.

There will be no pictures on my blog tonight to reflect this post. I can't bring myself to desecrate this space that way.
You can however check out the links below but the images are quite graphic and very disturbing.

I speak of the barbaric use of both live or dead dogs and cats being used as shark bait. The practise of taking a dog, piercing a giant hook through both upper and lower lip or snout or paws of someones more than terrified domesticated companion as its stuggling is in vain.

Once the dog or cat is captured, the fisherman 'hook' them the day before to let them bleed sufficently.

Some escape before being tossed overboard, to live without being able to eat or walk, depending where the hooks are and to die a pitiful dealth due to infection or starvation.

The dog is then hoisted over the side of the boat and dragged through the water, using the blood streaming from the open wounds caused by the fish hooks to attract any shark in the vicinity. Sometimes the fishermen leave the dog or cat out in the water overnight and return the next day to check for their catch.

Apparently this practise has been going on for over a decade.

I can't spend more time on this topic....it's unhealthy for my soul.
I just wanted to make anyone who is interested aware there are two options.

There is an on-line petition you can sign.

http://www.petitiononline.com/13by3/petition.html

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2005/10/1019_051019_dogs_sharks.html

Or (and better) you can take a few minutes out of your busy schedule and send a letter (you know, that primitive practise of writing on paper, signing your name to it, placing it into an envelope with a stamp!) addressing it to any French Consulate.

Shame on the French Government. France-a country that professes such love of dogs to allow this barbarism to go unchecked for so long!

Choose Wisely!

2009-05-20T19:46:00.001-07:00

I once named a sweet-as-pie puppy Scandal. Her registered name was 'Sandalwood What A Scandal.' I wasn't considering her personality or character at the time but instead was reflecting on the trauma surrounding the whelping.

How many times people would comment that she suited her name! From running down the boardwalk with a squirrel she'd just caught, stopping to show her 'treasure' to passers-by, to catching a seagull as it was taking flight, then charging along the sand blindly, its wings covering her eyes, while tourists stared in shock and disbelief.

I think it has alot to do with our voice inflection when we utter their given word (name). The energy and quality behind what that name brings to our mind.

'Boomer,' a black lab, is rough and ready to go anywhere, ingest anything and in his twilight years is unaccepting of his physical limitations (adventurer/construction-worker/hockey-night lad).

'Lacy,' a sheltie, is a gentle, mild-mannered, slightly aloof girl (frilly-girl/teatime/poetry reading).

'Carl,' a great dane, shows signs of leaning toward having OCD, is genuinely fun to be around and kind (living vicariously through others/dependable/a bit needy).

'Ruckus,' a boxer, is always at the center of any disruption at the dog park, not in a nasty way but just wants to be where the action is ( dash and dare/nosey/high-energy).

'Lucy,'a yellow lab, is a fun-loving, high-energy, what'll-we-do-next girl (shopaholic/where's-the-party girl).

'Whiskey,' a beagle, is full of energy, (and himself!) and wants to be the center of attention (the comic-relief/always regale-you-with-a-story type).

Then there's my 'Journey.' An unassuming sort, plodding along, taking everything in, investigative, exhibiting a low-key acceptance of life.

How often have we exclaimed--or heard, 'that name really suits your dog'....or is it the dog who has grown into the name...the subconscious qualities, the subliminal message we send when we utter their name?

So when you bring your new puppy home or decide to keep that 'special one' out of a litter, the first order of the day is to decide on a suitable name.

We can hardly entertain the idea of proudly presenting our newest member of the family without an identity, without a label conjuring up the character and qualities we're hoping the pup will one day embody.

Logically speaking, we should probably wait until our new charge has given us more to go on than the expected accident on the carpet upon bringing it home...it would be more prudent for us to wait for a glimpse into its character and personality.

I believe a dog grows into its name. It will become the embodiment of the name you choose...so choose wisely.

It's All Fun & Games until...

2009-05-19T05:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we celebrated Queen Victoria's birthday in Canada. Every year, the last Monday before May 24th is a statutory holiday. The May 2-4 weekend.

It's also the unofficial weekend we recognize as the kick-off to the summer season.

We celebrate this weekend in various ways. There's a slow-moving exodus along every major highway in the country as people get back to nature, returning to open up their cottages. We have our barbeques heating up for get-togethers, we flock to garden centers with a list in hand of perrenials, annuals and garden ornaments as we mentally prepare our backs and knees for the hours we'll put in beautifying our gardens.

We celebrate with a plethora of pyrotechnics...fireworks!!

Most cities put on a display on the holiday Monday. Many individual communities gather in local parks to hold their own mini-displays. In backyards, in shopping-mall parking lots or if you're a group of teenagers, on the street after 1:00a.m.

Go into any corner store at this time of year and there's a bevy of all the newest fireworks to choose from-The Eliminator Shell, The Wheel, Beast of Artillary, Dominator Candle, Triple Whistling Bottle Rockets, Molatov Cocktail. The choice is endless and seldom requires age verification.

The chemicals used to make us 'oh' and 'ah' are hardly environmentally friendly. Barium, used to produce the brilliant green colors is poisonous and radioactive. Copper compounds used to produce blue colors, contain dioxin, which has been linked to cancer. Cadmium, lithium, antimony, rubidium, strontium, lead and potassium nitrate are used to produce different effects, even though they can cause a host of respiratory and other health problems. Couple this with the really big displays put on by the cities usually being set off over or close to a body of water, where all the dusts and contaminants fall, contributing to our water contamination.

Not to mention the amount of refuse left at any location where people gather in large groups or the toll on the local bird and wildlife population.

I'm always put off when I see a dog brought along to these displays. The crowds of revellers and the brilliant colours and designs of pyrotechnics may appeal to the child in us all but they DON'T appeal to my dog or any dog I know of for that matter.

The sound alone is enough to put the most laid-back dog on alert. Their noses being more sensitive than ours, pick up the scent of the chemicals emanating from these creations... these 'terrors in the sky.' They register them as foreign and unfriendly.

Last year, on this holiday, I received a frantic phone call from a neighbour. There were some teenagers passing by her house who stopped long enough to let off a few firecrackers. Her dog was in the fenced-backyard at the time. It panicked at the noise and somehow escaped.
We searched for hours. The next morning, she received a call from Animal Control. Her dog was found on Lakeshore Blvd. It had been hit by a car as it tried to cross the busy street.

I have seen dogs quivering in their paws, panting and displaying any number of stress signals when they are within ear-shot of our celebratory fireworks. Some seek out refuge in the basement, a closet or under a blanket. If a dog is at all sensitive, as with thunderstorms, it's intolerance will grow as it ages.

Dogs can become withdrawn for days after-refusing to go outside after dark, exhibiting apprehension when they come across a sparkler left in the grass at the park the next day.

As far as I'm concerned there should be a ban on selling fireworks to the public. Yes, even the innocent sparklers. Not so innocent when lit and slid into someones shirt.

It's all fun and games until someone gets their eye poked (or burned) out.

There's One Born Every Minute

2009-05-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

If you open any dog-related magazine and turn to the classified ads, you'll stumble on two or three dog psychics for hire.

For a fee, you can hear your dog's innermost feelings verbalized and if your dog has had a 'past-life' or multiple past lives, you can hear all about that too. From the dog's innermost thoughts straight to your ears...via a psychic.

If you can't get to where the psychic of your choice is, this isn't a problem. They can do a reading over the phone. Just hold the phone in the general direction of where your dog is resting and the psychic will pick up your animals vibes and relay the message to you.

I don't mind admitting, I have a few problems with this whole picture. I'm a skeptic.

I'm alot more comfortable with the term animal communicator. We all communicate on many different levels with our dogs...body language, energy levels, voice inflection and good old verbal commands or words our dogs have come to recognize. (not 'understand' but recognize)

I do believe dogs communicate with us and if we're in-tune' with them, they are capable of sending us messages, to get our attention. We sense their being. They read us.

On the other paw, there's the self-proclaimed animal psychic.

I don't believe anyone can communicate with a deceased animal-which is a service most of these people offer, some with a promised 99% accuracy!

I don't believe they can read my dog's past lives, nor do I believe a dog can tell them what happened to him/her when he/she was three months old or a year-old, that is still traumatizing him/her today.

Dogs do not have the cerebral reasoning ability it takes to tell a psychic, or anyone else, a story in any language...but watch them long enough and their story will unfold.

A woman who dearly loved her dog sought the aid of a local animal psychic to find out if it was'time to say goodbye' to her 16-year old companion.

I had been strongly suggesting her dog was trying to 'tell her something' for-the-past year-and-a-half, watching as it stumbled and fell over, too old and feeble to walk. (she got a carriage for it) The dog had lost it's eyesight the year before and at this point was plagued with seizures throughout the day. It gave up on eating. There was something almost mournful in it's body language. It was tired. Her owner was desparate to know what was wrong-what her friend was 'feeling.'

The 'message' was loud and clear to me.

During the winter months when the snow became too deep to push the carriage to the psychic's house for a weekly reading, her owner was relieved when the psychic told her she could do a reading over the phone. How very convenient for all involved!

My dog has a half-dozen ways of 'telling me' or communicating to me when she's tired, thirsty, hungry, needing a walk, wanting to play, not feeling well, disappointed, suspicious of an individual, feeling lazy, angry, excited, happy, nervous, concerned, fed-up, wanting my attention, desiring a cuddle, contented and yes, even when she's a little miffed with me---

I've set the stage for this type of communication and we are 'in tune' enough with each other to reap the benefits. We're conscious of each other's energies-each other's being...we feel/sense each other.

Unfortunately, it's a far cry from carrying on a conversation, although I'd probably prefer a conversation with any animal than most humans. (oops-did I say that??!)

People who seek out dog psychics are in need. They are searching for someone to console them, to share their path with...or perhaps they need to seek out professional help for themselves.

Besides, if I were blessed with psychic abilities, I don't think there would be a fee involved in sharing my gift.

Pippi Longstocking Gone Wrong

2009-05-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

I've just come in from my last walk of the evening with my dog.

The neighourhood is quiet at this hour of the night, a couple sitting out on their front porch, enjoying the still, cool night air. A cat crossing the street on some kind of mission. We pass a couple of dog owners out on their last call. No raccoon sightings, which is not unusual as garbage pick-up was this morning--they've had their fill after rummaging through any of the loose trash before daybreak.

Journey stops her investigative sniffing on a lawn long enough to recognize a person approaching from a distance. I acknowledge the on-coming pedestrian traffic by stepping slightly to the side,motioning Journey over onto the grass to allow an unobstructed passage.

When the person, a female of about thirty years old, gets within two feet of us, she jumps up, lands in a crouch position, at eye-level with my girl, stares at her and doesn't say a word.

I'm fairly thrown by this behavior and Journey has taken a step backward with a concerned expression on her face.

I ask her what she's doing and she lets me know she's 'saying hello' to my dog.

I suggest this isn't the best way to do so anytime but especially in the dark at night.

She then informs me she trains dogs (would NOT have ever slotted her as a trainer--of any sort!) and, 'yes, this is exactly the way you do it'.

'No,' I say, my patience surprising me. 'You should never get down at eye-level with an unknown dog and just stare at it.'

'Too bad you've got a scaredy-cat there. You've made her that way, you know,' she tells me as she's bringing herself back to an erect position.

Fixing her with a frosty, eye-level stare of my own, conscious of her bright blue and white Pippi Longstocking tights, I'm trying to formulate what path I want this confrontaion to to take.

As she slowly starts to pass us, I realize there's no response necessary--I'm dealing with a complete maniac.

Journey twists her neck around and watches Pippi until she's completely out of sight, still wondering, I'm sure, what that human was all about.

Hmm...I wonder if I'll ever get to meet a dog she's trained--or who her employer is??!!?

With her skills, I guess it could be one of those big-box pet stores who are brokers for puppy mills. And I bet you could find a couple of those designer breeds there too!

Lip curling...

My Breed of Choice

2009-05-12T06:23:00.000-07:00

It's no secret my breed of choice is the Great Dane.

In 1991 I purchased my first Dane. I knew nothing about the breed aside from it being one of the giant breeds, as well as being referred to as one of the 'grief' breeds. The latter label bestowed upon them (and most of the giant breeds) due to the special requirements in their growth stages and their shorter life expectancy.

I have been graced with having four Danes to date; my first, my heart-girl. She had one litter of pups. From that litter, I kept my 'pick'-another female. And then there were two.

The more I learned about these Danes the more I realized how much I admired them and my quest to know everything about their personalities, every nuance, every quirk, every characteristic, grew. From a behaviorist point of view, they were a real study.

A dog is a dog is a dog. Species first, (canidae) breed second, (Great Dane) and call name last.

By their very stature, they are set apart from so many other breeds. They are part lion, part lamb. They are sensitive to all energies (I have followed along behind one of my Danes as she tracked a single ant along a sidewalk, studying it every centimetre of it's journey with intense solemnity, at the same time exhibiting such a profound joy in her discovery!) and if you take the time to 'read' them, you realize they reflect their emotions in their facial expressions just as plainly as through their body language.

Their desire to live in harmony with their human is tantamount to their well-being. Their desire. They want to 'fit in' to their human's lifestyle and energy level. They don't expect you to alter your lifestyle (save the walks and outdoor exercise we all need more of!) to suit them, which is a noble quality in itself and is not so with many other breeds. They are an unassuming lot. They specialize in making their body fit the space alloted to them. (except in bed-where they like to take up as much room as possible!)

Providing guidance and leadership to two Great Danes has it's moments but with the older one, the mother, enforcing my rule with her off-spring, it was a peaceful existance.

After a few years and the required health checks, I bred the daughter, kept the 'pick' puppy-another female...and then there were three.

We were a family, a pack, with the hierarchy in place. I now owned three-generations, grand-dam, dam and her daughter.

With females (of any breed) one must always stay one step ahead of the brightest one.

We lived in peace and harmony in our 'den.' If there was discipline doled out or an admonishment, it came from me, always backed up by the now-veteran grand-dam, the QueenD.

This breed enjoys living in a pack situation, whether it's with other complimentary breeds or their own, they're happier, more fulfilled.

By the time they're beginning to mature at around two, two-and-a-half, they become breed specific where play is concerned. They will greet and be friendly with other breeds but recognize their (sometimes self-imposed) differences and will deign to share their nobility only on occasion.

When they've reached that magnificent age of a veteran...or senior at age seven, they sleep the sleep of an old dog, Raising their head from time to time with bleary-eyed acceptance, to nudge a warm nose into a close-by hand in loving gratitude.

I'm now back to a single companion, old paw time claiming the pieces of my heart one by one.

Never, ever ready to say goodbye to one when the inevitable time comes but the lessons they each leave me with, have been learned.

With their individual personalities, allowing me a glimpse into their internal mosaic, I move on with a richer understanding of the souls within the breed we refer to as The Great Dane!

Too Much of a Good Thing

2009-05-10T18:47:00.000-07:00

Once or twice a day, everyday, a well-meaning, responsible dog owner loads his dogs into the vehicle, drives them out to what is probably the closest thing these dogs will know this side of the rainbow bridge--the perfect location for dogs to get their daily exercise.

For the next hour he follows along the paths as the dogs chase each other, run through the woods and have a real great time!

Satiated, they return to the vehicle, pile in and return home. After their bellies have been filled they'll retire to a comfortable sofa for their much-needed beauty sleep.

What could be wrong with this scenario...?

Of course every dog needs off-leash time. Of course socialization is vital for a well-balanced dog.

But can there be too much of a good thing?

If the off-leash time doesn't balance out with on-leash-learning-respect-for-owner-time, or some form of set guidelines, then yes, you can anticipate some problems.

There has to be respect before the earned reward of off-leash priveleges. (I don't mean respect by behaving while in the vehicle on the way to an off-leash area either!) I mean the challenge- the job of being attentive and submissive.

There are very few dogs who don't love their owners. Loving people comes easy to dogs.

Respect is another matter altogether in the canine world. Just because a dog loves you, it doesn't necessarily follow that it respects you. One has to earn respect.

A dog will give you respect when you will settle for nothing less. When you expect nothing less.

When there is no question about 'who's walking who.' When no means 'no questions-not acceptable.' As with a child who is left to 'run wild' without limits, boundaries or expectations, this can lead to far-reaching effects.

Owning a confident, well-socialized dog is wonderful but too much freedom does not beget self-restraint in the canine world. It can produce a dog with dominance issues.

Dogs are forever attempting to climb that ladder...to be 'top dog.' Not only within a pack but if given the chance, will dominate whoever they can, whether it's subtle in nature (pawing at your knee for affection now or curling a lip when a toy is taken away) or a more obvious behavior. (lunging at an approaching dog while being walked or letting out a quiet growl of disapproval when ordered off the sofa)

So before you allow your charge unlimited exercise and socialization, make sure there's a balance-make sure it's well-deserved!

Designer Genes

2009-05-09T17:23:00.000-07:00

Goberian, Havaton, Doxie-Chon, Eskifon, Wauzer, Rottaf, Miniboz, Cheeks, Japeke.

Nope, not a foreign language...these are some of the new 'designer breeds', the newest trend flooding the market.

A great percentage of these mixed breeds end up in petstores, where with a fancy designer name and an outragous price, you can take one home and conveniently enroll your pup in said store's puppy or obedience classes!

Fifteen years ago, we called them 'mixed breeds .'

I refer to them as 'Canadian Classics.'

I have nothing against mixed breeds, I was exposed to more mixed breeds growing up than purebred dogs. (although our family did own a couple of purebred dogs; a dachshund, a beagle) There were more mixes, I assume because we lived in an urban area and anyone who was serious enough to have purebred dogs probably lived in a more rural setting. All the kennels were out in the country where there was plenty of land.

Our dogs were let out in the morning, to wander around and scratched at the door when they returned. When a neighbour came knocking at the door ( sometimes knocking at more than one door, because sometimes there was more than one sire, since LuLu was out wandering too!) to share the news their little LuLu had just had six puppies and a few of them closely resembled our dog, there were congratulations all around and the pups were given away to good homes.

As a 'mixed breed', the pup might cost $10-20.00.

Now some of the mixed breeds--oops! I mean 'designer breeds' are going for $800.00. One site has their pups listed for $1200.-

Since these 'breeders' don't belong to any kennel club (or they wouldn't be cross-breeding) they are not held to any breeder's code of ethics or regulatory committee. They don't need to do any health testing, which is obvious by the number of Golden-doodles with hip issues.

They do have their own registry though--I don't know who's brain-child that was but they 'recognize' certain hybrids. Recognize them as what?? Dogs??!?

They don't do pedigree work to see which dogs were inflicted with what diseases and what percentage of dogs have genetic issues to be passed on in their off-spring.

Some claim hybrid dogs are healthier, because you are mixing up the gene pool. Yes, indeed they're mixing up the gene pool...but they don't tell you instead of concerning yourself with one breeds disposition and health issues, you are now dealing with two (or who knows how many) distinct breeds who both carry separate health issues within their breed.

I have a problem with people who are crossing Catahoula Leopard Dogs with Boerboels-now that's a whole lotta dog for someone without the knowledge of that mix! Or a Great Dane with a Neopolitan Mastiff.

I shudder to think of the possible ramifications of combining those genetics!

If you are interested in the list of 'designer breeds' or the registry club:

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/americancaninehybridclub.htm

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/hybriddogs.htm

Jenny Craig Candidate

2009-05-07T16:05:00.000-07:00

I have never seen a wolf trudging along behind the pack in attempts to keep up. I've never seen any overweight animals in the wild.

Optimum health is essential to their survival skills-the physical exertion of the hunt and chase, bringing their prey down, it all takes a toned, muscular, well-appointed body and a sharp mind.

A far cry from close to 50% of our domesticated canine companions! Obesity is not only on the rise-it's higher than it's ever been in the history of the domestic dog.

The waddle is not a natural gait for any dog. (not even the Basset Hound)

One should be able to run their hands down the dog's side and feel ribs, not have to dig through body fat to 'find' them!

While it may be very well and good for us to lay around on the sofa munching on a bowl of Doritos (and tossing the odd one to the dog) the ramifications are not so comforting for your companion!

A dog needs exercise, more than just a walk around the block two or three times a day. Or a big fenced-in backyard. They need to run-chase, play. They need to exert themselves physically and be challenged mentally.

When I hear of a dog who is a poor eater, the first question I ask is what kind of exercise the dog is getting. When I hear about a dog who is destructive in the house-the same question comes to mind.

Predators/scavengers are genetically programmed for the hunt, the chase and the bringing down of their prey. A dog owner who can employ all these events into a walk, will never have a dog who is a picky eater.

Nor will they have an over-weight dog...or any of the ailments that go along with or are exascerbated by obesity-diabetes, joint dysfunction, heart disease, orthopedic issues.

There's even a pill out now for treating over-weight dogs--Slentrol.

I say, shame on any vet who prescribes it.

There are too many armchair owners-too many fair-weather walkers. It's far easier to throw the dog a treat (or three) or to put the dog into the backyard than to grab the leash and head outside for an hour's exercise.

Not always convenient to put aside an hour a day to enjoy the outdoors with your dog. To play, to discover. to bond. Find that trigger for your dog-that game it just loves to play until you're worn-out! A frisbee, a ball, jogging, whatever it might be.

A necessity for the responsible dog owner and for the healthy, well-balanced dog!

The Salad Bar

2009-05-05T18:58:00.000-07:00

My dog eats grass.

There are two distinct types of grass she ingests.

One type is when she has something going on in her intestines and she wants to clear out her stomach. The effect of eating this type of grass produces immediate results. The stomach is cleaned out. These blades are darker green and broad.

Then there's the daily salad bar, when the blades still hold the dew. These are the young, new shoots of grass and in the early spring, there

is a daily foraging for this superior speciman.

I've seen multiple dogs gathering at what must be a particularly up-scale salad bar. The owners just hang around until their dogs have had their fill, then with their appetite satisfied, move on.

I've heard it's the trace minerals that attract dogs to eating grass. It could be the actual act of chewing they're going for. Perhaps the grass has a sweet taste to it.

Whatever the reasons, I don't think it's a harmful indulgence!

A Rose By Any Other Name...

2009-05-04T06:10:00.000-07:00

As breeder or owner of a female, one gets to choose the names for the puppies born in a litter. It's a name on paper for the kennel club registration forms. The 'official' name. This is not necessarily the name that will stick once the puppy goes off with its pack members to it's new den. Any other chosen name is the pup's 'call' name.

Sometimes the call name will be somewhere in the registered name or will be referenced in the choice. 'Sweet Lily of the Valley' may be shortened to 'Lily.' 'Stars in My Eyes' may become 'Cassy', short for the constellation Cassiopeia.' You get the picture...

At times the new owners will figure out their own name for their new charge, that has no reflection on the official name. I had a pup go to his new home proudly sporting the name, 'Sandalwood Steppin' Out.' His owners decided on 'Carl.' No big deal!

"That which we call a rose. By any other name would smell as sweet."

Ten years ago, I had a big strapping puppy who reminded me of a locomotive coming at me. I decided on the name, 'Sandalwood SteamHeat.' It suited him perfectly.

I sold this puppy to a family out of country-first time I'd shipped a puppy anywhere. It was very difficult leaving him at the airport but I knew he'd be greeted by his new people within three or four hours. They called me later on that day and told me all was well and they were in love and would send photos.

There were photos of him arriving weekly, he'd settled in well.

When I received the official paperwork from the kennel club, I mailed them off right away to 'Heaters' owners.

The photos stopped coming....something was wrong!

About a month later I got an emotionally-charged phone call from Heater's parents. They had received his papers and wanted to change his name. They felt they couldn't use the name 'Steamheat' in public because they were Baptists and they felt the name carried a 'sexual connotation.'

I patiently explained my reason for choosing this name for the stocky little fellow but it was no use. I agreed they should call the pup whatever they chose-but his name would remain as it was on his registration papers.

They were going to write a letter to the kennel club and get his official name changed. They preferred 'Saxon.' They would get a lawyer if necessary!

I mentioned (as delicately as possible) the Saxons held far darker connotations for some. They invaded, raped, pillaged and murdered.

They contacted the kennel club and of course, were informed it's 'breeder's choice' where names are concerned.

That was the last time they contacted me, shared photos or let me know how he was doing. I called them a few times over the years but they never responded.

That was ten years and four months ago.

Last month, on Easter morning, I got an email asking me if I was the breeder who'd sold them 'Saxon'. I could easily have let them know I never had a puppy named Saxon but I took the higher road and joyfully told them yes! Was he still alive? Was he healthy? Happy?

Yes, he's healthy and happy. Yes, he's the best dog they've ever owned. Then I received the photos. I can tell he is much loved.

I'm told they will perhaps consider another pup from me in the spring....I will give serious thought before naming that one!

The Open Door

2009-05-03T17:21:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I was coming home from the store-a short walk up from Queen St. In the past week the trees have gone from promising buds to lush green foliage and I was enjoying the swing into spring on a sunny afternoon.

Out of the corner of my eye, I caught a streak of movement in a backyard. I stopped, trying to identify that familair slinking motion.

No more than a minute later a large-size, male dog came loping down the driveway, head and tail down. At first glance, his gait and physical appearance reminded me of a coyote. he was quite majestic-looking. He paused, glanced behind him-waiting for something. Ten seconds later, a smaller, stocky female followed. When she caught up with him, they proceeded down the driveway, along the sidewalk to the next driveway. They headed toward that backyard at a steady pace.

Now I was intrigued!

Our neighbourhood is not one where dogs run at large. There's the odd dog lazing on a front porch while the owner is doing some gardening or once in awhile a bark from a fenced backyard but that's as feral as the dogs get around here.

Another minute later and the same pattern occured. The male emerged from the backyard first, waiting to escort the female along the sidewalk to the next driveway, up the driveway and into the backyard. I followed along, trying to get their attention. They were obviously on some kind of mission.

After trailing these two for seven backyards, I called over to two women who were walking their Portugeuse Water dogs on the opposite side of the street. I explained the situation and asked if either could perhaps spare a leash.

One of the women excused herself, letting us know her dog was dominant where other males are concerned. She crossed the street to stay at a safe distance. The other woman took her dog's leash off (well-trained dog!!) and offered it up.

Since my arms were weighed down with grocery bags, I asked her if she'd make an attempt at leashing one of the dogs.

Using treats she brought along for her dog walk, she offered some to the two dogs on their way down the driveway. Throwing them in their general direction, the dogs rushed over and gobbled them up hungrily. Gingerly the female approached close enough, and finally accepted the exchange of freedom for some treats.

It was painfully obvious though, getting the male to do likewise was not going to happen. On top of that, treat lady's bag was empty.

I took a moment to assess the dog's behavior and physical well-being. I noticed the male was thin-not starving but not well-fleshed out. The female was friendly and portly but still seemed to be very hungry. Their tongues were lolling, they needed water. They were both walking stiff-legged, as if they'd put a few miles under those paws.

I called my son and asked him to bring out a bowl of water. (he knows me well enough by now, not to question these strange requests.)

Spying a fenced-in yard on the corner, I told treat lady to lead the captive over to it. These two vagrants were obviously a pair-where one went the other would follow. I put my grocery bags down, took the leash, opened the gate and led the female into the yard. The male hesitated but out of concern for his partner, followed.

With the gate closed behind us, we had them both!

They drank their fill and thanks to the lady with the dominant dog who ran home to get them food, they finished off a full bowl of kibble.

A neighbour called Animal Control and gave them the address. They told us they could come right away and pick up the dogs but if they weren't claimed in three days-they'd be put down.

These dogs are obviously owned by someone, they are wearing collars, no tags though. Perhaps they will find they're microchipped.

Observing their behavior in the yard, it comes to me---she's pregnant!! If I was a betting woman, that's where I'd put my money!

Rick with Animal Control arrived within twenty minutes. He took a look at the dogs and said, 'I know these dogs, they live down the block. I've never really seen them but they match the description. Their owner has been sited for the piles in the backyard.' There's no one home there right now but the door is wide open. Probably a disgruntled neighbour. Lots of barking complaints.' Rick leads the female into the van and the male dutifully follows. I thank him for his quick response and he gives me his card.

Now I'm another disgruntled neighbour...although I'm within 500 ft. from my own door, I pick up my bags of groceries and storm down the street, looking for the house with the 'open door.'

I locate it easily. It's an ill-kept place with boxes and over-flowing garbage bins at the side.

I hear a dog barking in the backyard.

Approaching two gentlemen sitting out on a porch two houses down, I ask them what they can tell me about their neighbour-the one with the open door. They tell me there's a dog in a cage in the backyard, and the young guy who rents the place breeds his huskys quite frequently but they never see him walking the dogs.

I have to ask them if they have any idea why his door is wide open if he's not at home. They tell me they wouldn't be surprised if a neighbour opened it in hopes of getting rid of those dogs.

I will return to this house tomorrow and continue to do so until I find someone at home. I want to speak to this person...badly!!

Big Dogs Little Dogs

2009-05-01T18:41:00.000-07:00

We're strolling along Queen Street on our way down to the beach for our afternoon play. More than one person stops us along our route to ask if they can 'pat the dog.' Journey dutifully stands still long enough to accept the praise and admiration and after a quick pat, we're off again.

There's a middle-aged lady with a miniature Schnauzer coming toward us from the opposite direction along the sidewalk. At twenty-five feet away, it starts...the dog is yapping, growling and pulling at the end of it's leash. His owner responds by shortening the leash while letting her poor baby know, 'it's o.k'. (No--It is NOT o.k!!!)

Journey is averting her eyes toward the park across the street, trying to control the situation by letting the Schnauzer know there is no threat from over here.

The lady and her 'poor baby' (now in a frenzied state) have managed to squeeze by us, relieved to have made it past us in one piece.

Once we've crossed the street and entered the park, a man walking a smart-looking Shetland Sheepdog is passing by. Over the barking, the man elucidates. When his dog was a puppy, he was attacked by a big dog-ever since, his dog is 'afraid of the big ones.' I ask him how many stitches the dog received from the attack. He assures me there were none required.

I don't buy it...it just doesn't justify this dog's behavior--lunging at the end of the leash, growling and snapping in my dog's face. Why was this issue not addressed right after the 'alleged attack?'

Not all small breeds exhibit this behavior but unfortunately, the majority do.

I'm so tired of hearing the reasons, I don't care what the owner's story is anymore. Willingly accept the blame for your dog's anti-social/bad behavior and set it right! Whether it stems from apprehension, lack of discipline or a Napoleon Complex, it's as much your responsibility to control your dog as it is my responsibilty to control mine.

Alot of times what people interpret as being an 'attack' is nothing more than a dominant dog doling out discipline-putting the overly zealous, misbehaving puppy or dog in its place. Calming its energies-letting it know what's 'acceptable behavior.'

I've seen my dog pin an annoying dog to the ground, after a warning ('get out of my space, I am not amused') holding it down, using her front legs until the dog lies still--gives in. Always done with an air of calm intent. After which she will release the dog, gather her dignity and stroll away. This is much the same as a parent containing an out-of-control child, who's in a temper tantrum, a paws-on time-out! If the dog approaches her again, it tends to display the required manners and respect.

This is the same way the mother dog teaches her puppies and if they tend to loose the lesson when they go to their new home, another dog will re-educate them.

I know if my dog were to respond in the same manner to these dogs or approach any dog-no matter what its size, barking and lunging at the end of her leash, there's a good chance I'd have a visit from an Animal Control officer and possibly a court order for a 'dangerous dog' designation.

This is a perfect case of 'size discrimination'!!

Finding His Way

2009-04-29T17:50:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine adopted a Great Dane from a rescue organization some months ago. He was not in good physical or emotional condition when he became part of their pack.

They have another dog, a senior-aged Black Lab, who wasn't thrilled with the new arrival but had recently lost his housemate so he was cautiously accepting of the new boy.

It's been a slow recovery for the poor guy as well as a learning curve for his new owners. Always with patience, they have taken things easy with him, not putting too many expectations on him but instead allowing him to find his way, get his paws under him so to speak. He's come a long way--but still has a long way to go.

When he approaches them, he does so with his head down in submission. If he gives a little wag of his tail, it stops when a hand connects with his body to pat him.

When his people enter the house, he greets them in a very submissive manner. His head down, slung to one side, his body curled away from them, tail down. Almost apologetically.

Perhaps he is recalling something learned from his past life . . . expecting what was inevitably to come.

I think he just hasn't learned how to feel free enough to fully express joy and happiness yet. With each passing day, with its sameness and the nurturing they give him, his confidence will grow. Confident that he is 'home'. Confident he will not be punished but will be disciplined in a loving manner. His owners will work at allowing him room for his own personality to blossom.

As the months pass and he experiences their commitment to his well-being, their desire for him to become a well-balanced member of their household, always re-enforcing their actions with love, he will find his confidence. When a hand is offered, he will nuzzle into it, with a tail wagging comfortably. He will go to the door to greet his people with a full body-wag, tail following suit, head held high and proud.

He will learn he is in a place where he can exhibit and share his emotional energy.

Time and love, with some patience, does heal all!

Pseudo-Pregnant Girl

2009-04-28T17:50:00.000-07:00

Her mind is telling her body she got lucky during her last heat. (she was not bred!) It's one day short of two months since her heat and she is in the throws of a false pregnancy. She is trying her best to eat for forty. She has spent the last week roaming around the house in her quest for the perfect site to have her phantom puppies. As I write this, she's had two of them-it's a small litter for a Great Dane...one is a muskrat and the other is a lamb.

The muskrat stuffy is in between my pillows at the head of my bed-the lamb has been relegated to the laundry basket in my bedroom closet. (with the door kept open at all times of course!)

She seems to be an attentive mother, going into the bedroom after every meal to carefully arrange my bedclothes into a pile in the center. Once satisfied with this endeavor, she goes over to her muskrat and gives it a few licks, desperately trying to get it to 'do something.' (like breathe I guess!!) When there's no response, she doesn't show signs of despondency, she just carries on. She then turns her attention to the closet and checks on the progress of the lamb in the laundry basket...sniffs at it, (no licks for the lamb) checks out the closet for the umteenth time and when she's satisfied there are no lurking menaces, she returns to the bed to lay quietly for about half an hour.

When we go for walks, there's only one focus---seek out the perfect den outdoors...just in case-dragging me into neighbours' bushes or any corner that has good cover. Old leaves from last fall seem to be a fave, especially if they're piled into a corner. When I stopped to speak with a neighbour on our evening walk, she spotted a crawlspace under the front steps and was through the garden, exhibiting such delight with the thought of finding a possible 'new' spot along our path with such a compulsion to investigate it fully!

This hormone-induced state will hopefully come to an end in another week. She'll tire of the muskrat and the lamb--they'll become stuffed animals once again. I will be able to reclaim my bedclothes and start making my bed in the morning and know it will still look the same way at night. Our walks will be about running and playing with her friends on the beach and checking out the 'pee-mail' in the neighbourhood.

Every female I have ever owned has exhibited the same behavior....has gone into a pseudo- pregnancy after every heat, until the time she is spayed. Going so far as to generations digging under the same bushes, follwing the same paths, preferring the same places.

It's been suggested the reason all my females experience this phenomenon is due to my nurturing, my mothering of them from a young age.

Whatever the reasons, it's a frustrating period for the female and can be exasperating for the owner, so a little extra compassion and understanding helps.

Next spring, if all goes according to plan and I breed her, she'll be an old pro at mothering!

Walkin' the Dog

2009-04-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

Convenience-anything that saves or simplifies work, adds to one's ease or comfort, etc., as an appliance, utensil, or the like. (Meriam-Webster)

Or an off-leash park for dogs.

Very convenient for any dog owner.

Open the gate, unhook the leash and let 'em run. Spend the next half hour communing with nature via checking messages on your PDA in the great outdoors or if there are other dog owners in there, pocket the blackberry and be social, excusing yourself only when you have to respond to a message.

Keeping one eye on your four-footed charge, attentive long enough to spy the selected spot, wander over, get the poop bag out, clean up and deposit it into the bin.

If there's a group of dogs 'playing' together let them 'work it out' by themselves. They'll have their own hierarchy down pat within the first three minutes.
Hmm...not my idea of exercising the dog!

The walk is the perfect time to bond with your dog. To mold and teach the dog what is acceptable and what won't be allowed. Everything you ever wanted to know about your dog or teach your dog can be accomplished while you are out on a walk or in a dog park with other dogs. Everything!! (what a concept) After all, it is the highlight of any dog's day!

We have a responsibility when there is more than one dog present to monitor their behavior. Just as we watch our kids in the playground and wouldn't allow bullying that can escalate to the point of physical injury, so it should be with a pack of playing dogs. The big difference is, in a playground, kids have bars and swings, a sandbox and all sorts of apparatus. Dogs have the other dogs, their owner and some wide-open space. Dogs need a job when they are out playing- a focus, whether it's retreiving a ball, playing tug-of-war with a favourite rope-toy with another dog or it may be as simple as calling the dog over every once in a while to reaffirm your leadership. (and hone the dogs training)

It shouldn't be a free-for-all in there. Being alert to the body language of an approaching dog or getting in there when there are three dogs on one and the low dog on the rung is obviously not enjoying it anymore is a necessity! This type of play (bullying) can cross the line from 'socializing' to the 'pack' mentality quickly. I've seen this many times in our off-leash area. The owner watching but oblivious to their dog's situation.

Monitor your dog's behavior when in an off-leash situation!!

There's a 'Code of Conduct' posted at the entrance of our off-leash parks in the city of Toronto.

http://www.toronto.ca/parks/ola_signsamples.htm,

Clean-Up Crew

2009-04-26T00:38:00.000-07:00

Most days we get down to the shores of Lake Ontario once--either for our early morning walk or the afternoon one. Our long walk. Our off-leash, socializing, play-with-other-dogs, camera-toting walk.

Today it was the early morning walk. When we got onto the boardwalk, I was disappointed to see an Animal Control van parked on the grass, along the boardwalk, which meant no strolling along the shoreline with my dog off-leash, without chancing a ticket issued to the tune of $500+. No dogs are allowed on the sand of our newly-designated 'Blue Flag' beach. They are not allowed off-leash unless in the designated, partly fenced in off-leash area (but we do take our chances when there are no officers on the beat!)

As I drew closer, it struck me that today was the day set for the dog owners in the beach to come together and do a beach clean-up, sponsored by the Toronto Beaches Dog Association. I assume this is done so we can show how much of the garbage along the beach does not originate from the canine community but from the 'others' who use the beach.

I decided to join in the efforts, since I am a member of the association--grabbed a garbage bag and some gloves (which the TBDA provided) and Journey and I entered the off-leash area. She would be able to socialize while I worked.

After about 20 minutes my garbage bag held some metal shards, lots of plastic items, used kleenex, broken glass beer bottle pieces but....no evidence of anything "doggy"! No bacteria-ridden, dried-up piles of poop, no flea-infested, left-behind dog toys, no sign of any dog-related item. Not one.

There was a great group out there today...the dog owners from our community. I don't recall seeing other groups from within the community exhibiting such enthusiasm and affection for our beach.

On the other paw, I don't necessarily agree we should be doing the city-workers' jobs for them. Just as I don't agree with the Mayor's "20 minute clean up day" across our city. There are staff who are paid a good hourly wage to clean up every day but judging by what's gathered up on that day in 20 minutes, it makes me wonder! I've not seen any city workers do any cleaning up on the beach proper (the sand) for years, although the parks staff are wonderful and keep the garbage bins emptied and the gardens looking beautiful.

On our way home from our morning outing, I came across an area where the guilty parties are definitely of the two-legged variety!! This is evident in the last four photos.

Praying for a Miracle!

2009-04-24T20:02:00.000-07:00

A friend called me tonight to share her fabulous news---this afternoon, her girl was surgically implanted with the frozen sperm of a dog who has been chomping bones in the big boneyard in the sky for the past seven years. A visit to the reproductive specialist, a one-inch incision, deposit of genetic material into the uterus, three stitches, et voila-the promise of puppy breath in 60+ days!

You see, she was sharing the news with me because I'm the one who suggested this particular stud dog! Last week she asked me if I knew of any 'good dogs out there.' His name came to mind. He was a good dog, perhaps even a great dog, who lived a long and healthy life, with many accomplishments under his collar. I put her in touch with his owner (well, the owner of his preserved straws) and $4000.00 later, the deed is done! The only memory the female will have of this life-altering event is her trip to the vets office where she fell asleep when she wasn't even aware she was tired!

Her owner is estatic!

Me, I'm thrilled and when she asked me what she can do to ever thank me for helping her with this breeding quandry, I assured her all she has to do is to love those puppies and make sure they go to good, forever homes.

I'm also feeling a little bit anxious. Somewhere in the back of my mind, there are echoing whispers of the'what-ifs' of this breeding. I can't help but feel if anything goes wrong (God forbid!) somehow part of the onus will find its way to my door.

Guess I'll just focus on the fact that any breeding and whelping is not an exact science. We have to leave room for a little bit of a miracle.

I'll be praying for a miracle for the next 60+ days!

Q & A's

2009-04-23T19:17:00.001-07:00

I breed my girls occasionally, that is, once in each of their lives, I breed them to a dog who I feel will not only be a good phenotype match but will bring longevity, health and temperament into the mix. I do this mainly to keep a girl to carry on with. At one point I had grandmother, daughter and grand-daughter at one time. Ages 10 years, 5 and 2.

It's a very difficult road, this breeding. So many variables--any number of things can go wrong no matter what health tests have preceded, no matter how many hours have been spent doing pedigree work, no matter how healthy both male and female are. Unfortunately, it's not an exact science. It's a miracle as I see it.

Then once the puppies have been safely delivered into the world and all is well, it only remains so for a short period of 8 weeks....until I have to deal with people who are interested in taking a puppy home with them.

I had calls today from two women, both looking to add a Dane puppy to their families.

Caller # 1 tells me how much she is in love with Great Danes and has done all sorts of research on the Internet about the breed. She has a two-month-old and a five year-old, one boy-one girl. Neither she nor her husband have owned a dog before. So, I patiently answer her questions as best and as honestly as I can. 'Yes, you'll still have to take the dog out in a snowstorm or in the rain (after bundling up your 'other' kids ) for exercise. Nope, a backyard just isn't the be-all-to-end-all when it comes to healthy exercise and responsible ownership. 'Yes, a puppy at six months of age, weighing one hundred pounds can cause bodily harm to a youngster without meaning to.' After an hour with her, she listens to my answers, to what I am saying. I suggest it would probably be best to wait until the children are a few years older. She thanks me for taking the time, for putting things into perspective for her. She has decided to wait a few years.

A little bit of psychology doesn't hurt!

Caller # 2 wants a puppy now. She and her fiance are getting married in June, she's two-months pregnant and has a five-year-old child. She will be off on maternity leave for 9 months, after which she'll go back to work full-time. Yes, she will crate the puppy while at work 5 days a week, 8 hours a day. Her last dog, a seven-year-old Black Lab had to be given to someone who lives on a farm because it growled at her child. A Black Lab--growling?!? (hmm...wonder why?)
'No, sorry you won't be getting a puppy from me and no, I don't know anyone I can refer you to.'

I don't sell dogs as disposable items. Nor do I sell them for income with no thought to their future.

If I had a litter of twelve whining , bouncing-off-the-walls, pooping and peeing puppies at the moment, would I have agreed to sell to either caller #1 or 2...? Nope! A prospective puppy owner has to bring more to the water bowl than that! And a responsible breeder has to responsibly place his/her puppies.

Beach Bacteria

2009-04-22T15:41:00.000-07:00

I don't want to sully our enjoyment of the meagre spring weather we're experiencing by bringing back memories of our cold and windy winter living on the shores of Lake Ontario but after reading the article in the most recent Beach Metro our local community paper, I have no choice.

The article headline says it all-'Dog Association Wants Right to Use Beaches in Winter' (http://www.beachmetro.com/)

My concern with the article is our councillor's response to our request. She has asked the mayor's office to authorize a pilot project for next year allowing dogs ON LEASH ONLY to use the area beaches in the winter months, as a way to 'study the impact on our Blue Flag Beaches' citing ' it's a matter of bacteria and cleanliness.'

Well, so what's my issue with that??? We get what every dog owner in the beach has been asking for---dogs being allowed on the beach during the winter months! Right?

So let me get this right....dogs ON LEASH on the beach in the winter months as opposed to dogs running free on the beach will impact the environment differently. There will be a difference in the bacteria count if the dog's are off-leash?

Hmm...this could only be possible if owners are strolling along the boardwalk, sipping their lattes deep in conversation with a companion, mindless of their four-footed charges.(unfortunately, I see this all the time, summer and winter.) These same owners don't even care to know where and when their dog has left its mess until they hear someone call out to them, 'excuse me, your dog has just dumped' or 'excuse me, do you need a bag" ?(pointing in the direction of the crouching perpetrator) Many a jogger is guilty of this offense! Not to mention the mounted police, who exercise their horses on the beach, summer and winter months. I have never in 20+ years seen an officer get off his horse and clean up after it. Nope, it's the dog owners who pick up after them. (unless the dogs get to it first!)

So, for me it goes right back to the basics....responsible dog owners, who are mindful as to the whereabouts of their dog at all times, when off-leash.

I guess whether off-leash or on-leash, if the owners arn't responsible there will be issues with bacteria and cleanliness summer and winter. If not on the beach proper, it will be be in our parkettes along the boardwalk and in the parks. It's not a matter of allowing dogs off-leash or not that will make our beach area cleaner. It's a matter of responsible ownership and taking responsibility for our environmental and ecological footprint.

When by-law officers focus on ticketing the true offenders; the persons who are guilty of riddling the beach with bacteria and dirt, those who leave garbage, be it in the form of dog feces, horse dung or dirty diapers, they will be doing their job. Then perhaps this vilification of all dog owners will cease!

Blue Flag Designation

2009-04-14T17:45:00.000-07:00

I've just returned from the very first Toronto Beaches Dog Association meeting. A great turnout with bodies overflowing into the hallway, people straining to hear what was being said.
The politicians of Toronto have met their match with the dog owners .
As far as I can gather, this 'Blue Flag' designation that has been bestowed upon our beach doesn't meet with the criteria for blue flag designation. The Environmental Defence (http://www.environmentaldefence.ca/reports/blueflag.htm) group has measured our beach against the 27 Blue Flag criteria and agree our beach meets these standards. Hmm....
As a person who has walked on the beach three times a day (every day!) for the past 20 years I have a different view.

When I see the litter, the garbage, the pieces of rusty metals; some of which has been there for years, the broken beer bottles (from the teens partying at night) the used condoms left for little kids to pick up, the dirty diapers and chicken bones, complete with used napkins, I am in awe of this Environmental Defence group. Yes, we want to encourage tourism back to Toronto, indeed into the province of Ontario but I have to wonder what kind of political backroom deal this is.
For instance, 'A daily beach cleaning during the bathing season when necessary.' and
' No algal or other vegetation may accumulate and be left to decay on the beach, except in areas
designated for a specific use and as long as this does not constitute a nuisance.'

I have not seen a 'daily cleaning of the beach' since the cutbacks-before that, every other morning there would be a sand-raking machine out there. I have seen the algae in late August so thick, kids wading into the water at certain areas of the shoreline are playing with it and they come out of the water with green legs!

We can't even refer to what is on the beach as sand at Kew Beach, because about 10 years ago there were truckloads and truckloads of crushed stone or gravel brought in to top off our 'sand.'
It would be interesting to analyze the composition of the 'sand' at Kew Beach and let's say the sand down at Woodbine Beach, where the Volleyball nets are set up.

Now we've been told there are no dogs allowed on the beach to comply with the 'Blue Flag Beach' designation. In the European Blue Flag Beach Criteria (2003) it nowhere states dogs aren't allowed on a beach as part of the criteria - it's a 'guideline criteria' so whatever City council decides where this one is concerned, is acceptable.

There is a new website for the Beaches Dog Association and I hope anyone who enjoys the sunrises and sunsets the boardwalk and beach offers, will consider visting the site and signing up to become a member and offer their time and talent. There's also a Facebook group.
I goggled them tonight with no luck but will post the links as soon as I can.

Time to take my girl for her walk.