October/November 2010
TAIL
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Feathers Alive: new life
Breathing
Bear Story: Ignoring the signs! The Road Ahead: Life after Loss
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A Note from the Publisher... Escaping to cottage country to enjoy the breathtaking fall colours is as much a Canadian tradition as that of the traditional Thanksgiving turkey and pumpkin pie. In our third issue of Cottage Dog we are taking our readers on a crisp walk via our photography filled pages through woodlands and lakesides. Naturally, our trusty dogs will be by our sides either figuratively with dogs we’ve loved and lost or literally as we curl up together on a comfy couch and thumb through the latest issue of the magazine. Our cover story is Feathers Alive, where we spend some time with Ken Morrison. His talent to breathe new life into an age old art has given him years of international recognition and awards. His detailed creations preserve the beauty of wild birds, particularly raptors in a way that allows many to appreciate their incredible beauty and perfection. It was a pleasure to interview Ken, and his trusty spaniel sidekick Jasper, for this story. Our Cottage Dog’s veterinarian Dr. Jason McLeod, DVM weaves us through a humorous “bumbling episode in his life with his aging dog Thor” in an excellent BEAR AWARE story that reminds us of the dangers of ignoring the signs. Freelancer Dale Peacock gets the fat on a weighty health concern facing couch canines with expert advice from veterinary and food specialists to inspire pet owners to stop overfeeding and help their pet get active again. What better time is there than our beautiful Canadian fall to step outdoors, leash in hand. It will do owner and pet good to enjoy the fresh air and vibrant colours of the changing seasons of our lives. Celebrity-freelancer Vince Grittani captures the scoop with PUPARAZZI highlights on dogs stepping out in “Their Breast Behaviour” for CIBC’s Walk for Breast Cancer in the hamlet of Dwight alongside the shores of Lake of Bays. He was on the trail to discover why this one small village consistently holds the record of raising more donations per participant than any other in Canada and discovered quite a few celeb canines incognito. Nancy Tapley, our newest contributor slips up with a true CAT Flap. NAPSTER’S TALE focuses on a budding PiCATso who uses his twitching tail to benefit injured birds, homeless cats and church mice everywhere. A very audible “Who let the cats in!“ exCATamation is being heard from all our happy dog readers. Let me assure you, we are equally concerned that this may have a CATatalyst result in many couch dogs suddenly discovering they are cozying up with a new cat or two to share our pages. We digress into some ‘foul’ colours with CATTY potty humour in our GOLDEN PAWPRINTS column as penned by Narella, PHD (Puppy Has Degree), our Dog Guide Columnist; a working dog enduring life with her human Michael Yale and their home’s surprising lack of air-fresheners. We end our issue with THE ROAD AHEAD and the subject matter all pet lovers must face on “Life after Loss“. Enid Powel, professional counsellor, helps readers deal with bereavement. This story features the photography of Scruffy Dog Photography and the very lovely Cassy, an amazing 17.5 year old Golden Retriever whose seems to reply to questions about her secret to longevity with a perpetual smile.
K. L. Brooks
Publisher/Editor: K. L. Brooks
Contributing Writers: K. L. Brooks Vince Grittani Dr. Jason McLeod, DVM Dale Peacock Enid Powell Nancy Tapley Michael Yale
Photo Credits: Leanne Knight (Cover) Trish Aleve Heather Douglas Ever Images Photography Vince Grittani Randy Mitsen Scruffy Dog Photography
Layout Artist: Craig Belanger
Ad inquiries: K.L Brooks Tel: 705-789-9181 info@CottageDog.com
Publisher Contact: Cottage Dog Publications 1393 Brunel Road Huntsville, ON P1H 2J3
Publication Agreement #: 42035032
To subscribe visit us online at: www.CottageDog.com or send CDN $24.99 plus HST ($28.24 taxes in) to: Cottage Dog Publications 1393 Brunel Road Huntsville, ON P1H 2J3 Reproduction of any part of this publication without expressed written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.
Table of
Contents 6
14 The Weighty
Concerns of Canine Obesity
18 Puperazzi:
On Their Breast Behaviour
21 Golden Pawprints
22 06 Feathers Alive 11 Bear Aware in Algonquin Park
24 24 Napster’s Tale 28 Bereavement:
Moving Through Mourning and the Pain of Loss
Contributors VINCE GRITTANI Television personality (Cottage Life and The Weekend Guy), playwright (Scenes From My Dock & Scenes From the 19th Hole), cartoonist and illustrator, TV & theatrical producer (Muskoka Theatre Project), writer and realtor, Vince does it all with success. First a camper, then a cottager and now a resident of cottage country, he lives by the motto “Never Stop Dancing!”. This year he will be traveling to Toronto to produce the world premiere of a new English farce starring original Coronation Street characters and the actors who played them. In addition, he’ll be premiering his new comedy “Thanks a Lot Bernie Madoff”. Vince is presently ruled by his fourth beloved Bearded Collie, Iago who follows in the footsteps of Cloudio, Puck and Pistol. Visit Vince at www.weekendguy.com
LEANNE KNIGHT Leanne Knight has been Heather Douglas’s Assistant for four years. She met Heather through a mutual friend of theirs, and her interest in photography sparked when she was asked to assist at a wedding with Heather. She discovered a way to enjoy a professional career doing everything she loves: working with people, being outdoors, and using her creativity. Leanne can be reached at Heather Douglas Photography at 705-789-0296.
DR. JASON MCLEOD, DVM Dr. Jason McLeod is a small animal veterinarian and surgeon who resides in Muskoka. He is the owner of Algonquin Animal Hospital in Huntsville and Bracebridge Animal Hospital in Bracebridge. A graduate of the University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College, Jason shares his love of life in Muskoka with his wife Megan, young son Marshall and a menagerie of pets that rule the house, including two dogs and four cats.Please see algonquinanimalhospital.org or bracebridgeanimalhospital.org for more information.
DALE PEACOCK Following a successful corporate career, a stint of global volunteerism and the acquisition of a law and justice degree at age 50, Dale embarked on a writing career armed with the fanciful idea that a living could be made as a freelancer. To her own great surprise, she was right. The proof lies in hundreds of published works on almost any topic but favourites include travel, humour & satire, pets, the environment and entrepreneurship. Having re-invented herself half a dozen times, Dale doesn’t rule anything out. Her time is divided equally between Huntsville, Ontario and winters spent near Tampa, Florida with Jim whom she married after 25 years of unwedded bliss. Two grown kids and two geriatric cats receive double doses of love and attention when she’s at home in Canada.
ENID POWELL Enid Powell is a registered Social Worker who has served in Muskoka for twenty years. Initially establishing the Sexual Abuse Therapy Agency, she served there for 12 years before leaving to focus on her increasing Private Practice. She has had pets organizing her life for many years; Tippy, Charlie (a step-dog), and now a ‘found dog’, Buddy (a Black Lab mix) as family members.
NANCY TAPLEY Nancy Tapley lives with two cats, several horses and hopefully soon a new dog at the family-run business, Bondi Village Resort on Lake of Bays. This allows her a lot of time outside with the wild animals that share this part of the world, taking guests on a series of Nature Programs. A highly certified equestrian coach, she also operates Fox Point Farm, working with a select number of horses and riders. Freelancing for various magazines is also on her agenda. She is currently a Councillor for the Township of Lake of Bays, and Napster’s official Art Agent.
MICHAEL YALE Mike was born in Hollywood, California in 1944 and was blinded in 1949 by an explosion. He spent most of his childhood in and out of hospitals for facial skin grafts, yet attended public school, was a concert pianist until the age of 17 and then went on to university at UC Berkeley in the mid 60’s, majoring in Journalism. Mike moved to Toronto in 1968 to attend Law School and over the years has had a diverse work history, such as owning and working on a dairy farm, working as an investigator for the Canadian and the Ontario Human Rights Commissions, working as a community organizer in the blind and disability movements, and has had a variety of public speaking engagements primarily related to human rights. Mike moved to Huntsville in 1986 where he purchased and operated a pet shop. He has owned five dog guides since the age of 17, all of which have been golden retrievers. He enjoys travel and writing merging these two passions in his published works and his many stories as a regular contributor in Cottage Dog magazine!
Photography by Leanne Knight
BY K. L. BROOKS
FEATHERS ALIVE
life Specialist and Regional Wildlife Specialist overseeing many field conservation and training projects. In 1993, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources brought Ken and his wife Betty to Muskoka. A few years later, they retired to cottage country. Here they share their life with Jasper, a 10 year old Springer Spaniel, regularly camp, canoe and travel, yet still find time to participate actively in the community. Betty is the District 18 Director of Horticulture and Past President of the local Horticultural Club. She and Ken work their extensive flower gardens together, although Ken is often slipping away from weeding to snap photographs of butterflies, dragonflies and moths. Jasper’s bird dog skills flush the winged beauties that Ken follows with his camera. He has photographed hundreds of species on these dog-assisted jaunts. Ken is also the president of the Huntsville Nature Club , meeting once a month, and a regular speaker at the Muskoka Field Naturalists’ Club.
Many unique people spread their wings and migrate to cottage country. Here they pursue hobbies, activities and interests that define them; some that have been cherished in their hearts since childhood. Ken Morrison is such an individual, whose passions set him apart as extraordinary. Distinguished with a love of nature, dogs, and particularly birds, as a four-year-old Ken traipsed -- cocker spaniel by his side -- in pursuit of feathers for his collection. The perfection of feathers sparked in his inquisitive mind, igniting “Feathers Alive”, a flame that’s burned over 60 years. His imaginative vision combines with those perfect feathers to let Ken create painstaking replicas of the natural bird world. At the age of fourteen, his dog snoring at his feet, Ken completed his first mount. That Pygmy Owl and the hours spent creating the mount set him on a life course to being a wildlife biologist of distinction and international award-winning ornithology (bird) taxidermist. In this field he has accumulated scores of esteemed Best in Show wins and humbling invitations to create over 70 full bird mounts for the Royal Ontario Museum’s Bio-Diversity division. Graduating as a Zoologist in 1966 from the University of British Columbia, and a Wildlife Biologist in 1969 from Colorado State University, Ken spent 28 years as a Wild-
A quietly dignified man, Morrison graciously opened his home and its collection of works. But this writer was near speechless and totally smitten with the breath taking beauty of outstanding Birds of Prey mounts, each with their individual story. Pulling my feet from under Jasper who lay warming them, I admired a magnificent Peregrine Falcon standing over a Blue Winged Teal in a marsh diorama. This bird had been a trained falcon when it died of a heart attack at the age of seventeen. A pair of Cooper Hawks with Red Wing Blackbird prey; Red-Tailed Hawks in courtship ritual -- the male offering a sprig of spruce used for a bug-free nest liner; a Blue Jay scolding a Long-eared Owl, and countless others decorated the space, captivating me. Every bird is documented and registered with Ministry of Natural Resources in meticulous record in accordance with the policies regarding possession of these species, including the fate that brought each to his door. Sadly Birds of Prey have a 70% mortality rate in their first year of life. Starvation, power lines, and road kills all take a toll. One was shot by a farmer protecting a domestic duck. It’s rare to see birds like these in the wild, and when we do it is usually a fleeting glimpse. Life in the wild is hard and dangerous. Nature is not always kind. It is against the law to sell, trade or barter these mounts, but as a member of the Canadian Taxidermist Association, Morrison can be commissioned to create mounts of birds with MNR certificates of reporting game. In his lifetime, Morrison has given 1,000’s of mounts away to educational facilities and trainers throughout Canada. CottageDog - October/November 2010 - 7 -
outcropping of shell-encrusted ocean rock. It is so realistic, it’s like a Puffin is allowing you to examine each of its feathers and touch its feet but could at any moment spread its wings and fly away. The carving is a gift to Morrison’s son Kyle who did his Masters on Seabirds (2009) and studied the Tufted Puffins. Over 200 hours went into its creation. Photography by Heather Douglas
There are moments in life, passions defined, that can lead people to achieve excellence and perfection. Following the heart and the creative inner eye is the key. Defining oneself by what takes flight rather that what holds us earthbound – these are the traits that give some people wings to soar above the rest. Ken is humble about his achievements. With his faithful Springer Spaniel still at his feet, he has been successful pursuing his early passion, working with what he loves, and celebrating those creatures that have most markedly affected his life. With wood and feathers, he brings to life the extraordinary beauty of the birds in our world and our relation to them.
Each bird mount takes long hours of work to complete and brings education and awe to the minds of so many. Not one to sit idle, Morrison credits Bob Elliot of Sault Ste. Marie for mentoring another passion; wood carving. Encouraged by Elliot, Morrison participates in international competition with his bird carvings. The details of this competitive wood craftsmanship demands perfection on every feather to a degree almost beyond comprehension. A black and white eider-like sea duck sits in one display. This Labrador Duck has been extinct since the 1870’s. The Royal Ontario Museum has the best preserved Labrador Duck stored in a brass box, too valuable to display. Morrison was allowed to photograph the bird. He then duplicated it with infinite detail. The result won the World Bird Carving Title in 1980. His detailed drawings are used by internationally competitive wood carvers who hope to win that title. A lifelike Passenger Pigeon is also on display nearby. It too is a World Title holder. Morrison is well respected for winning several prestigious international bird carving awards. Tufted Puffins are beautiful, brightly coloured sea birds commonly known as “sea parrots” due to their thick distinctive beak. In Morrison’s living room a beautifully rendered wood carving of a Tufted Puffin balances on an - 8 - CottageDog - October/November 2010
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Bear-Aware in
Algonquin Park by Dr. Jason McLeod
Photography by Randy Mitsen of Algonquin Outfitters
My wife was supposed to accompany me, my mighty dog Thor and my friend Dave to Algonquin Park for few days of paddling adventure through Ontario’s true wonderland. Good thing she did not end up coming as she has an almost hysterical level of fear of black bears. Then again, I am not sure I would have been all that thrilled with coming that close to a bear in the wild if I had known it was actually going to happen. My wife’s last minute “work requirement” came after I spent multiple weeks pleading with her to understand the chance of us crossing paths with a bear were more remote than me finishing the basement renovations without professional help. Needless to say, Dave, Thor and I headed into Algonquin for a weekend’s worth of…..excitement! Due to time constraints and the fact that we were not looking for an eco-warrior weekend of full body fatigue and directional challenge, we mapped out an easy and frequented route. The first day started off with a paddle away from the launch site with all of our camping gear strategically placed within the gunnels of the canoe to make sure we were as sea-worthy as possible. Of course, space in the centre was left for Thor to enjoy the sun-basking as only
the most sun-loving of dogs can. It was only within 100 metres of shore that we crossed paths with another canoe and Thor jumped to his feet to make sure it was indeed a comrade vessel approaching. Surprising to me was how close we came to capsizing with a dog of Thor’s bulk moving around so much. This continued for at least another 30 minutes as we passed numerous other canoes, some with their own four-legged companions testing the skills of their vessel’s operators. Thankfully, there was no need for an open water rescue. It was not long before we were off exploring and Thor’s snorting and snoring were the only sounds rumbling through the lapping of small waves and chirps of birds in the distance. My only wish for the weekend was to see that prototypical image of Algonquin Park; a bull moose standing in knee-high water sifting through the water lilies on a foggy morning as the sun makes it way above the horizon. The thought of a bear never crossed my mind. We paddled and portaged all day, stopping for the occasional chat and relaxing as we leaned back in the canoe adrift. We saw very few people after the first few hours and Algonquin Park truly felt as remote to me as the Australian outback. As dusk approached, we paddled around CottageDog - October/November 2010 - 11 -
looking for an unoccupied camp site but took our time as there were so many things to investigate. Dave and I, both having a background in biology, got interested in the natural wonders around us. It was only after an hour of drifting, paddling and “field science” that we realized the sun had dipped beyond the tree tops and we still had not found a camp site. Luckily, Dave had been there many times previously and guided us through the rapidly encroaching darkness to a less well known camp site that was….occupied! However, Dave knew of one more site toward the end of a bay that couldn’t possibly have anyone on it. We literally crashed upon shore and Thor, desperate to get out and relieve his distended bladder, nearly toppled us in our leg-weary state. As we stretched and pulled our limbs from the pretzel shape they had become, we noticed a sign posted on a tree. “Bear sighted, campers had to be relocated.” We looked at each other and immediately rationalized the sign must have been posted the night prior as there was no indication of a hasty departure and Thor did not seem any more interested in dropping his nose to the ground than usual. We immediately began searching for suitable wood to make a campfire in the dimmest of ambient light. Considering we were well into the fall season, the ideal wood was retrieved from the deepest reaches of the forest so far from the camp site that I began considering burning my clothing. All the while, our faithful companion Thor eagerly ran between us as if he were a field marshall commanding his army. The night continued as would any other in the park. Various sounds heard; rummaging in the bush, brush moving here and there, the odd unidentified sound. Even Thor did not make much of a sound . We had all of our food stuffs high in a tree. . No worries. The next morning, I awoke very early due primarily to the onset of hypothermia. Thor had managed, in my exhausted stupor, to push me almost completely out of my sleeping bag and was nestled in head first with only his tail exposed; a deep rumbling snore emanating from the foot of the toasty bedding. Dave was still sound asleep, crowded up against the far wall of the tent by Thor’s selfless positioning across the centre of our two-man shelter. I crept out to the crisp chill of the morning air, my breath looking like a dragon about to breathe fire. Immediately, I began to get the cinders active again and sat close to the warming flames while my two companions slowly arose from their hibernation. - 12 - CottageDog - October/November 2010
It was then I saw one of the most amazing natural spectacles I have ever witnessed. As the fog quickly began to lift, over a dozen loons were revealed, silhouetted by the sun’s rays all in a line as if getting ready to do a country line dance. They then began to sequentially call out and stand up; wings a stretch, attempting what looked to me like they were trying to walk on water. A crescendo of calls continued with increasing intensity for almost 30 minutes in a display that can only be described as loon synchronized swimming. It was absolutely awe inspiring and even my beloved Thor stood and watched without moving a muscle. Just as the sun was burning off enough fog that I could get some clear images on camera, a low buzzing sound startled them. The loons disbanded quickly as a small aluminum boat with three park rangers, one with rifle in hand, slowed to shore. The looks on their faces said they were surprised to see us there. Very quickly, we were informed that the campers were removed from the camp site only 45 minutes before we had arrived the night prior because a bear had chased them into the water while ravaging their camp site. The site was cleared in such haste that the rangers did not have time to clean up and hence placed the warning sign. When questioned as to our disregard of the warning, it was apparent to me we were looked upon as possessing less than average intelligence. Further inspection of the site, with the aid of the now morning sun, showed there
was still ample tasty debris scattered throughout the bushes surrounding the site that would have kept the bear around. Tracks indicated the opportunistic intruder may have been around the perimeter of the camp site during the evening after we had arrived. The rangers made sure they were satisfied no bear was still in the vicinity and left us to our stupidity. LAKE OF BAYS $2,795,000 Spectacular new build, 225' LAKE OF BAYS $1,599,900 215' frontage, double-slip boatWe spent the rest of the morning cleaning up the site frontage, 2+ acres, 2-slip boathouse, 4,100 sq. ft, 5 bdrms, house w/1,000+ sq. ft sun deck & 4,100 sq. ft cottage w/ 4 baths & main flrfor master Chef’s dream kitchen, spectacular wide open lake views! Dbl car garage, hot tub, and packing thesuite. second day of paddling and portaging, Muskoka rm + amazing ‘outdoor kitchen’. Lwr lvl walk-out. extensive decking, 2 stone fireplaces & spacious lwr lvl.
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Health &
The WEIGHTY concerns of canine obesity by Dale Peacock
Humans aren’t alone in suffering from middle-aged spread. Dog obesity is an all too common problem for family pets and the ramification of being overweight is just as serious for dogs as it is for people.
difficult to identify organs properly and to perform surgery well. Routine surgeries become complex.” Not surprisingly, he says, “In speaking with human surgeons, they echo the sentiments.”
According to Muskoka’s Dr. Jason McLeod DVM, “Physiologically speaking, being overweight or obese affects many, if not all, systems in the body. The orthopedic ramifications are huge and in fact, when discussing any kind of orthopedic disease with clients, if there is a weight issue, I tell them that weight loss to what we refer to as an “ideal body condition score” is paramount.” He adds, “It will not matter what surgery, anti-inflammatory medications, physiotherapy or joint supplements are used if an ideal weight is not achieved.”
Dr. McLeod says, “I try not to lay a big guilt trip on owners. However, I do say that just as with humans, overweight dogs get that way (mostly) for two reasons – over feeding and lack of exercise. I also say that since dogs don’t shop, feed or exercise themselves, we need to drop the guilt and take appropriate measures to keep our pets from getting fat or take immediate action if they do.”
Dr. McLeod explains, “Obesity also affects the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems simply through pressure from fatty deposits around the heart, major vessels and between the lungs. When we do x-rays on obese dogs, it is amazing in a very sad way to see the physical effects on the organs within the chest and abdomen.” He continues, “There are many veterinarians who refuse to do abdominal surgery on obese pets because it becomes very Photography by Trish Aleve
Huntsville’s Pet Valu owner, Russ Matthews, recommends good quality lower calorie foods which he says, “have better formulations and usually include glucosamine and chondroitin”. Mathews offers this additional advice: “Add low calorie fresh vegetable treats like broccoli or carrots to your pets treat regimen.” Most vegetables are fine, but onions and garlic are best avoided as they can be disruptive to digestive health. If you have any questions about vegetables, it’s best to check with your vet. Vegetables for dogs can be a real asset to canine health and they add variety to your dog’s diet.
Why do dogs gain weight? Aside from the two main reasons of not enough exercise and too much food, there may be physiological reasons for your dog’s obesity, which is why a veterinarian should be involved in tackling the problem. »» Breed may play a role and Dr. McLeod calls breed the second greatest contributor to obesity. Cocker spaniels, shelties, basset hounds, beagles, dachshunds, Labrador and golden retrievers, miniature schnauzers, bichons frises, pugs, pomeranians and Jack Russell terriers are all prone to being overweight. »» Spaying or neutering does lower a dog’s metabolism, but dogs don’t usually gain exclusively due to being spayed or neutered. A fixed dog does not automatically equal a fat dog. »» Stages of life should be considered. Russ Matthews offers a reminder: “An active puppy’s nutritional needs are different from those of a less active middle-aged dog.”
- 14 - CottageDog - October/November 2010
»» Endocrine (hormonal) issues can definitely cause weight gain issues according to Dr. McLeod. He explains, “Often, however, the endocrine issues develop because of early uncontrolled weight gain and obesity resulting in diabetes mellitus. Cushing’s disease is another that can cause weight gain. Thyroid disease, which in dogs is almost exclusively hypothyroidism (low functioning thyroid), is the number one hormonal disease of dogs and is very common in certain breeds such as golden retrievers, boxers, and beagles.” Hypothyroidism will cause weight gain in pets that are actually eating an appropriate amount of food and getting appropriate exercise. Over time, they are less interested in eating (often) and yet still gain weight and seem to be perpetually lazy or lethargic.
How to tell if your dog is overweight McLeod explains, “In veterinary medicine there are two widely accepted scales used to measure a pet’s body condition and thus their measure of obesity. One scale is a 5-point, wherein the 3/5 is ideal, 4 is heavy and 5 is obese. Another is a 9-point scale and it simply allows for a little more objectivity in measuring. 5/9 is ideal, with 6/9 being heavy, 7/9 being very heavy, 8/9 obese and 9/9 very obese.” The scale is used with primarily visual interpretation and the primary things to look for are as follows: »» from above, the pet should have an hour glass figure (a waistline) »» from the side, the pet should have the belly higher than the sternum (lower most point of the chest/ribcage) »» when feeling the pet, you should be able to feel the vertebrae from mid-back to approximately the pelvis in most breeds, including cats
When to see your veterinarian If you think your dog has a weight problem, make an appointment with your vet. The doctor will give your dog a thorough physical, do some blood tests, and ask questions about eating habits and frequency. Then she/he can help you build a realistic, gradual, and low-risk weight loss plan. The plan will almost certainly include: »» Reduced caloric intake, probably using a special dog food formulated for weight loss »» Less food each day »» Increased fiber or water intake »» More exercise Russ Matthews suggests, “You might want to consider keeping a log of food intake, including treats, so you can evaluate how much you’re feeding your pet.” He adds, “Write it down near the place where food is stored so that anyone who feeds your dog knows how much to provide.” He concludes, “Use a measuring cup. Don’t just guess at it. A little too much over time can result in significant weight gain.” Keep in mind that dogs may take as long as eight to twelve months to reach their goal weight and even then, they’ll need to keep up the diet and exercise to maintain their new, healthier condition. It’s reasonable to assume that your pets will appreciate life a whole lot more when they are fit, trim and really able to participate fully in daily activities.
Lacey (Shepherd X Kelpie) - in search of a new forever home. Right now, she is in the foster care of the Mussissauga Humane Society.
Dr. McLeod warns, “Weight loss should be no more than 1-2% a week and in some cases, this may be too aggressive. Rapid weight loss, although it sounds ideal, is not. It means that a pet has entered what we call a catabolic state, a situation where the body is not taking in enough calories and nutrients to meet the basal metabolic rate or minimal requirements.” He says, “The pet is in starvation mode and many side effects can occur VERY rapidly, including a situation called hepatic lipidosis wherein the liver goes into failure because of too rapid a mobilization of body fat stores.” In cats in particular this is very common, but in both cats and dogs it is VERY life threatening and often not caught early enough to save the pet. Dr. McLeod cautions, “It is tragic as people think their pet is losing weight so nicely and rapidly, but then the pet does very poorly.” CottageDog - October/November 2010 - 15 -
Bondi Village Resort Bondi Village Resort, located at the head of Haystack Bay, Lake of Bays, has been creating wonderful family memories for over a century. The housekeeping cottages – widely spaced on the huge property – are an ideal base for family getaways, couples and groups. Well equipped, well maintained, the cottages, ranging from two bedroom to a six bedroom unit that can sleep eighteen people, offer all the benefits of private cottage ownership without the expense, maintenance fees and hassle. Owner operated, and into the fourth generation, the resort is well established with a unique blend of wilderness, organic farm and amenities. The result is a destination where some families have been coming, without missing a single summer, for 45 years. With 600 acres of our own private wilderness reserve, we are a haven for wildlife – as well as wildlife spotters, bird watchers and nature lovers of all ages. 2000’ of private shallow sandy beachfront ensures that there is more than enough room for both those who want to get together, and those who prefer quiet places. All cottage rentals include a private canoe, a bbq, and a pass into Algonquin Park, just 10 minutes away. We offer programs like Dark Skies, Owl Prowls, Wolf Howls, and teach waterskiing and windsurfing. Open year round,
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our 20 km. of groomed, track set cross country ski trails complement our snowshoe trails, toboggan hills and skating rink. Step out the cottage door, and you are already on the trails. These trails transform in summer into nature walks, offering the chance to find bear-clawed trees, woodpecker trees, deer, fox and a wealth of other creatures. It is common to find whitetail deer grazing on the resort lawns and in the spring, newborn fawns hidden in our resort gardens. We offer a 9 hole disc golf course as well. True to our farming roots, our large organic garden provides produce to our guests. Our free-ranging chickens provide eggs, and the opportunity for children to gather those eggs, meet the chickens and have fun learning where our food comes from. There are horses on the property. Show horses, and a kidfriendly pony. Next door to Algonquin Park, we are close to golf courses, trail riding, dog sledding, sleigh rides, theatres, zip-lining and mountain biking centres. And we are close to excellent kennels, such as Happy Tails, in Huntsville. We love animals – we have a lot of our own (including Napster!). Because we love animals, we do not permit our guests to bring dogs to the resort. (There is one exception: a three bedroom cottage adjacent to the main resort property, with access to its own private beach area.) We’ve found permitting one dog means permitting all dogs. While dog-owners love their dog, they don’t always love everybody else’s dog. Guests coming to interact with the wilderness and the wild creatures that live there don’t want those chances spoiled by barking dogs. Guests with allergies come because we are entirely nonsmoking and don’t accept pets in the cottages. Bringing your best friend can backfire – there are so many places where the dogs cannot go. Many Park trails are closed to dogs. All public beaches are
closed to dogs, for health reasons. During the hot months, the last place you want your buddy is sitting in the car while you try to shop, explore craft and antique stores, visit museums, experience such great Muskoka traditions as the S.S. Segwun steamship or the Muskoka Pioneer Village or Santa’s Village for the kids (big and little!). Golfing, zip-lining, trail riding, mountain biking are going to mean your buddy is left somewhere else. Dogs hate to be left in a strange cottage while their people are away. Our guests have found that it is a more restful vacation for everyone with their dogs in good kennels where the staff ensure the dogs have a great time while the family is exploring all the wonderful activities Muskoka has to offer. The amount of wildlife we enjoy at our resort also poses an issue for folks with dogs, many of which can’t resist chasing deer, chipmunks, rabbits, skunks, porcupines, fox, or our own chickens! At Bondi Village our focus is on providing the best family-friendly cottage experience possible. Water trampolines, play cabins, a range of boats, plenty of open space to be explored, lots of activities for all ages – this is all part of our package. We’ve been creating treasured family memories for over a century.
www.bondi-cottage-resort.com
PUPARAZZI! ON T H E I R B R E AST B E HAV I OU R ! By Vince Grittani
Although there are a few male cases diagnosed in Canada each year (approx. 180), breast cancer predominately remains a female affliction (approx. 23,200). However, as discouraging as these statistics appear, there is hope. Since the 1980’s the survival rate has been on the rise. The reason for this is that research has lead to better screening methods, accompanied by increased public education programs.
The Run is billed as “Canada’s largest single day volunteer-led fundraising event dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer research, plus education and awareness programs.” From large cities to small towns across the country, participants join in all for their own personal reasons, with one common goal…to eliminate breast cancer altogether.
We all know that when it comes to women’s breasts men can display a whole gamut of sometimes questionable behavior. However when a female loved one is touched by breast cancer, very often those same men suddenly become demure and uncomfortably respectful creatures who don’t know what to say or do. Women on the other hand are more likely to band together displaying great gestures of comradeship and support, very often with animated activities accompanied by copious amounts of healing laughter. The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure most definitely is one of these activities.
Last year the Dwight Run site raised $54,000 with only 200 participants making it the highest amount per participant in the whole of Canada for the fourth year in a row. With a team of 40 volunteers, this year was no exception when it came to enthusiasm, participation and tons of laughter.But best of all, they beat last year’s total reaching $62,800. Congratulations to all! But it wasn’t just humans who helped out. Wanting to lend their paws to the cause canine companions, some with costumes joined in the celebration to share a laugh or two.
- 18 - CottageDog - October/November 2010
Simon the 3½ year old Standard Poodle has tied one on for a great cause!
Chololate Labe Benson preferred to run the race au naturel! Mookie, hangs with the girls.
Iago joins the girls of the Port Sydney Brownies & Sparks
Bernese Mountain Dog Charllie and Gold Retriever Newman travelled from Calgary to be in the run.
Hanging around.
Stretch? It’s only 5k
Snap photos of the “Who’s Who”in your dog park...and submit your own photos for the Puperazzi!
I “herd” that.
Iago, the Beardie, prefers to take in the sounds of the Northern Lights steel band
6 month old Otter, the Landseer is filling out his shirt quite nicely. Hobbit the Rough Coat Collie wonders if they made Lassie dress up!
The Dane!
CottageDog - October/November 2010 - 19 -
CottageDog’s
DOGS OF THE ISSUE Molly lives the summer at the cottage swimming, boating, digging and just lying around.
This is Minni (Chihuahua Cross). I’m not sure what she was staring at so intently. Ruby Truax
Diana Goodwin
A picture of our West Highland Terrier, Cosmo, practicing water safety at the cottage! He’s 10 months old in this picture taken May 24th, 2010 on Lake Muskasong in Field, Ontario.
Nora Guinane and David McMahon
Bored?
Photo by Timothy Du Vernet
We have what you need
collars beds carriers apparel charms candles
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Rosseau, Ontario
GOLDEN PAWPRINTS By Narella Yale
HOUSEBREAKING A HUMAN Speaking as a dog with a degree, (PHD stands for Puppy Has Degree) let me assure you that most dogs agree that it is unwise and stupid to make a mess in the house. You see, most of us prefer to live and sleep in clean quarters. Be-
Dogs are constantly “hounded” to stay clean and out of the way, and are repeatedly urged to go outside and relieve themselves in the back yard or clean open air. Humans, on the other paw, repeatedly relieve themselves in the same small room in their house. Family members and strangers consistently use the same room and the room
sides, making a mess normally leads to harsh words from
is not cleaned after every use. It seems that humans are
and temper tantrums by our humans and, of course, a
a lot like their cats. Cats use the same litter spot repeat-
dirty house! As is so often the case, humans don’t seem to
edly but humans clean it up regularly. I’ve advised many
follow their own rules. Their houses are often rearranged
cats that they could show real gratitude by learning how
or reorganized on a regular basis without any obvious rea-
to clean up after humans! Unfortunately, this idea has not
son or purpose, and without any noticeable improvement.
proven very popular with them, and therefore the human
Their automobiles have a profoundly nasty smoky smell
rumblings and grumblings add to the internal household
and since so many humans drive instead of walk, the air everywhere is saturated with the smell.
environment. With most windows closed to keep the fresh air outside, the house tends to reek of humans—their bodies and their possessions. But you can be sure that one
On the one paw, our doghouses are regularly cleaned
doggy smell, or even a near-doggy smell, will be blamed
and all of our toys are picked up and stored in a box,
on the resident pooch. One small dog mess on the front porch may cause severe household whining but when Uncle Sam creates something vile and stinky in the bathroom, the house may smell like a kennel for a week and yet Sam is invited back the following Sunday! By their own rules, Sam should have been required to clean the bathroom, just as some humans insist on cleaning up after their dogs.
which means we have to take everything out again day after day. On the other paw, humans fill their residences with hundreds of objects of all sizes. Even a table, unused for months, is allowed to stand still, taking up room and only finally being moved during one of those random rearrangements.
The world can be a BIG lonely place for a homeless animal...
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We need YOUR help to RAISE THE WOOF! Help RAISE THE WOOF for Muskoka Region’s newest Animal Welfare Centre and donate today! Call us at (705) 645-6225 or visit us online at muskoka.ontariospca.ca
MUSKOKA ANIMAL CENTRE COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN
Enjoy 8 issues a year of Cottage Dog for only CDN $24.99 plus HST ($28.24) Mail a cheque to: Cottage Dog 1393 Brunel Road Huntsville, ON P1H 2J3 Please check out the website for more info. www.CottageDog.com
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NAPSTER’S TALE Born to a wild mother in a hay loft in Bobcaygeon, a small ginger cat spent his first year mousing and hiding at Lane’s End farm. When he was almost two, Jodi managed to lure him out of the wild, and he took up a position along with the four official stable cats. About that time, our own stable cat passed away, at the age of 16. Napster’s arrival was heralded by the arrival of an O.P.P. cruiser, lights flashing. Enroute to a meeting, Sue had taken a short detour to deliver the cat. Extricating him from the cat carrier in the back of the cruiser, very carefully to avoid contact with his short ginger hairs on her dress uniform, she held the cat out to me.
And so Napster relocated to Bondi Village Resort on Lake of Bays to be the stable cat. He quickly took over his duties in the barn, supervising the chickens, chivvying the horses into line, and making best friends with the dog. Come winter, however, he decided life was better indoors on the couch, making a lateral career shift to house-cat/ couch potato. That lifestyle brings dangers. Equally fond of couch and dinner bowl, less fond of cold winter weather, Napster began to expand. Attempts to reduce his calories only resulted in him sleeping more, and complaining more loudly when awake. Best friends with Holly the dog, when she passed away at the age of 17, Napster found he had even less reason to climb down from his sofa.
“Here,” she announced. “We have five cats, you have none.” This was several years back, so when the cat needed a name, my nephew promptly christened him “Napster.” After all, he was free, loves to nap and when patted, he downloads music. It was a natural fit.
A crisis was precipitated by his getting stuck in the catflap door. Wedged in so firmly he had to be physically pushed and pulled out, the cat, deeply humiliated, obviously needed intervention When we found him lounging in a guest’s lap, clutching an empty cooler bottle we
- 24 - CottageDog - October/November 2010
Photography by Heather Douglas
by Nancy Tapley
knew there was no time to lose. Deaf ears were turned to his pleas for just a little more kibble, and my nephew David and his friend Mike set him on a life path and exercise. They would come into the house several times a day, scoop him from his comfy couch, carry him away from the house and put him down. He had to walk home. We have a large property at the Resort. Napster became a familiar sight grumping his way back to the house from the farthest corners. With this strict regime, he lost almost 5 pounds – a huge amount for a cat -- and regained the freedom of the cat-flap. Last winter, when the temperature dipped to thirty below, walking became a non-option. “He can’t just lie on the couch,” David decreed. He’ll just gain the weight back. He needed a way keep busy. We offered him a chance on the elliptical machine. He fell off. Dominoes... not so enthralling... Placing the dinner dish high, so he had to
Dolphins Chase the Moon is one of his bestselling pieces, and his first international sale (to Arizona) A vibrant, striking piece of art, it looks absolutely stunning framed.
jump up for food had limited results. Having dabbled with various hobbies, it was suggested, watching his never still tail, that he might like to try art. Before you laugh, consider that there are three art galleries in Los Angeles devoted to carrying Feline Art. All their artists paint using their front paws. Napster rejected this immediately, loathing the feeling of paint between his toes. Still, all hope was not lost. We offered him the chance to paint using his tail. With an assistant who sits with Napster on her lap, communing about the mood the cat is in, and the colour palate to be selected, he embarked on this new venture. His assistant holds him, comfy over the shoulder, where the cat can lick her nose and purr in her ear, with the tail completely free. Keeping the palate within easy reach, and using his tail as the brush, Napster began his artistic career in February 2010, and has already amassed a con-
Napster lives with his person, Nancy Tapley, at Bondi Village Resort, on Lake of Bays This provides him with a large property to explore, and many people to visit throughout the year. Through his fundraising sales -- notecards and limited edition prints -- he has benefited the local Anglican and United churches (being in support of church mice everywhere); as well as the Huntsville Animal Shelter and the Stratford SPCA. He has raised over $600 for his ‘signature’ charity, A Wing and a Prayer. His work is currently available at the resort, and the Dwight Library.
Loon Dancer, his ‘signature’ piece for A Wing and a Prayer, who selected it because it contains at it’s heart a dancing loon. This piece also hangs in a private gallery in London, England.
CottageDog - October/November 2010 - 25 -
siderable body of work. His bold strokes and fearless use of colour combine with his unique vision of the world to produce startling and evocative images. In June, we brought out a line of greeting cards – Napster Notes. During the G8, his first run of cards sold out quickly. So did the second. He expanded his line into framed prints... The first international sale went to Arizona, and since then he has sold to discerning collectors all across Canada, New York City, Buffalo, Massachusetts and Europe. One of his prints, “Loon Dancer” was taken as a gift for a celebrity art collector in London, England. Keen to give back where he can, Napster supports several charities. His primary charity is A Wing and A Prayer Bird Rescue Centre, the charity Napster chose to atone for past mistakes. One of his original works was sold at Silent Auction for the Stewart Memorial United Church; another framed print raised funds at the Anglican Church Regatta. After all, he has pointed out that he is in favour of church mice everywhere. Keenly aware of his own past as a homeless stray, he has donated prints to Catapawlooza, the Stratford SPCA ‘cat centred’ fundraiser, and the Huntsville Animal Shelter. His work will be on display at the Huntsville Place Mall later in October at the Animal Shelter fundraiser as well.
Featuring
Kathleen Edwards The New York Times called Edwards a singer-songwriter who can “pare situations down to a few dozen words while they push country-rock towards its primal impulses of thump and twang.”
While Feline Art may not be for everyone, we hope that many of you will find joy in his uninhibited expression of his art, and support his efforts to raise funds for his fellow animals.
Napster Felinus can be contacted through his “agent”, Nancy Tapley, at the Bondi Resort Blog www.bondi-cottage-resort.com
Photography by Ever Images Photography
The Animal Shelter for Huntsville is venturing into a “Showcase of Our Animals” that will feature several live felines with the purpose of finding good homes that may not be considered otherwise. The idea is to bring the felines to the community instead of people coming to our Shelter. The “Showcase” will be held at the Huntsville Place Mall, in the former Athletes World retail space on Friday Oct 22, and Saturday Oct 23rd. The event has escalated to include exhibits from Pet Valu, Napster Felinus (tail painting), Cottage Dog, a fabulous new magazine targeted to vacationing canines, baking goods table, unique crafts, beautiful auction baskets, slightly used items for sale, Painted Kids (face painting) and best of all pop corn and cotton candy just to name a few. Not to forget the canines, the photo gallery will feature beautiful professional photos of several canines that are also up for adoption. The Animal Shelter is a small overloaded shelter that was created over 30 yrs ago to care for unwanted, abandoned, neglected, and abused animals in the community and surrounding areas. It is a no kill, registered, non profit corporation with no funding from any government sources or affiliated satellite shelters. They need your help! So, come out and enjoy the fun!
ANIMAL SHELTER FOR HUNTSVILLE 19 Bickley Country Drive, Huntsville, Ontario P1H 1Y4 Phone: 705-789-9709 www.animals-huntsville.on.ca
Bereavement by Enid Powell
Moving through mourning and the pain of loss The death of a pet is very significant in the lives of those who have suffered the loss, even though others may not consider it noteworthy. When there is the death of a close friend or family member there is support. Cards and letters of comfort are received and rites, to bring closure, occur.
If a furry or feathered pet passes
away, frequently there is little ceremony and limited acknowledgement. Within the home there is a vacancy that seems to haunt everyone - no animal noises, no quiet nuzzles, purrs or chirps. The void can become overwhelming and one needs time to recognize and accept the grief and pain. Bereavement takes time and recovery can be slow, especially if ignored. Adults and children sense the loss and they need to be comforted even when others, either inside or outside the family circle, minimize it. We experience many losses in our lives: loss of a job, children moving away, relationships evolve and dissolve. The responses are similar, they are known as the stages of ‘death’: denial & disbelief, anger, guilt, depression, and finally, acceptance. Recognize your individual responses and respect them. Take time for mourning so the pain will heal, but don’t allow the loss to block out recovery. To move through the agony and grief there is a need to recognize the impact of the loss. The death of a pet impacts on all areas of our lives. One feels lost and uncomfortable. There is a vacuum in living and it is hard often to define. One becomes very aware of our vulnerability and how little control we have of life’s events. We need to see these events as opportunities to ponder the deeper questions of life. If we ignore our pain or bury it, it will re-emerge when we least expect it Honour the memory by looking after yourself. Self care is essential. Make sure that you eat, exercise and eat healthfully. It may be sad to go for a walk without your companion, but take a walk to respect the remembrance. Respect your grief and honour it. Don’t just throw out the pet’s toys but set them in a special place in your home or garden. Acknowledge and grieve over the loss of a loyal companion and a best friend, a - 28 - CottageDog - October/November 2010
family member who gave you unconditional love and ac-
window of opportunity, when the family members can be
ceptance. Remember the good times as well as the pain.
open to talk about death, loss and the helpless feelings
Use your special time - five or ten minutes every day - in
that accompany them.
a safe place, where you can allow the tears to flow, then try to get back to your daily routine. Gradually lessen the time – skip a day – allow healing to occur. Remember always that bereavement takes time. Many people expect that grief will be over in a few days or weeks. But grieving takes time and memories can be triggered unexpectedly. Accept these moments as ‘souvenir snapshots’, celebrate the former joy and help yourself to heal
Especially if you live alone, surround yourself with sympathetic contacts. Find compassionate friends to share your grief with. They may be unsure how to help so you may have to tell them. Initially try to avoid those who would minimize your pain. Perhaps later, when you feel less sorrowful, you can share some of your experience with them so they will be more sensitive with others. When healing happens honour the memory of your pet.
the impact that the loss has on the family unit. Routines
Bring a new pet into your life as soon as you feel able to do
are disrupted after a pet’s death. The family may have
so. The unconditional companionship is a joy that needs
to seek a new schedule with one another. This is a brief
to be repeated.
Photography by Scruffy Dog Photography
In a family – especially one with children – recognize
CottageDog - October/November 2010 - 29 -
Tell them they don’t have to leave Fido at home!
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