Vol. 2, Issue 2
Spring 2011
Puperazzi at
CALGARY’S
Pet Expo
DOCK DOGS Take the
Plunge! Meet Canada’s
Newest COTTAGE DOGS from Kabul
AFGHANISTAN
Chibley’s Travels Aboard the
PICTON CASTLE Good Dog, Bad Dog? Take our
QUIZto FIND OUT
Get free pet health advice and connect with your veterinarian Find and adopt the perfect pet for your home Keep a secure log of your pets’ health records Find missing pets with the Lost & Found feature Find local veterinarians in your area
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A Note from the Publisher...
pring’s just around the corner, and soon our thoughts will turn to those annual rituals this season brings with it, not least of which is getting the cottage ready for summer. To celebrate that wonderful sense of renewal – spring is a fresh start in so many ways – we’ve done a little freshening up of our own as CottageDog continues to expand. Along with the continual fine-tuning of our design and layout, we’ve added a few new regular features to keep things fresh and exciting. A personal favourite is our feature on DockDogs, a thrilling summer sport involving dogs performing amazing feats as they leap off cottage docks into water. CottageDog owners know you’ll never witness a pooch having more fun anywhere! And it gets better: we’ll in fact be following DockDog events throughout the coming months, providing contest details as well as results (not to mention exciting photo-spreads) in order to promote these shows throughout Canada and into the US. And as a nod to the fact that many dog owners are also cat lovers – and as part of our Year of the Cat celebrations (see more inside!) – this issue launches Chibley’s Travels, the continuing saga of the world’s best travelled cat aboard the tall ship Picton Castle. To top it all, you’ll be able to follow these exciting events – along with regular updates on these and other CottageDog projects and stories – on our new “App”, available soon from Apple’s App Store. Talking about interactive… you can get up close and personal with your favourite dog mag at the upcoming All About Pets Show being held in Toronto from April 22nd-24th, and again at Woofstock on June 11th-12th, two wonderful pet events we’re helping sponsor. To ensure you’re kept informed of all the many wonderful projects we’re working on, be sure to subscribe to CottageDog (either online or see our ad in this issue), or pick up your copy from Chapters and Indigo bookstores, across Canada. You can also follow us on our website (www.CottageDog.com) and our fun-filled and amazingly popular Facebook page, where you can pitch us stories and upload your best pooch-photos (while we can’t use them all in this mag, we can certainly use the best of the rest on our websites). Finally, as we continue to grow, we want to hear from you: our affiliation with some of Canada’s top dog resorts and college courses can help connect you with life-changing career opportunities, as well as some pooch-pampering (drop me a line and ask me about my Greathound Bus Service!). Also, we’re seeing a tremendous growth in interest in pet-friendly travel, and so encourage you to send us details of your cottage rentals and accommodation opportunities… we’d love to include them in our Getaways and Barket Place advertising sections. Until then… carry-on having fun in full CottageDog style! K.L. Brooks Publisher
Publisher: K. L. Brooks
Editor: Bryan Dearsley
Contributing Writers: Pam Constable Pam Doyle Vince Grittani Sue Guthrie Karen Larocque
Lori McFadyen Dr. Jason McLeod, DVM Jodi McMurray Erika Phillips Kerry Vinson
Cartoonists Vince Grittani Jerry King
Photo Credits: Scruffy Dog Photography (Cover) Kelly Hollinshead, Shutterbug Pam Doyle Pam Constable
Layout Artist: Craig Belanger
Ad inquiries: Lisa Brooks - lisa@CottageDog.com John Knight - john@CottageDog.com Erika Phillips - erika@CottageDog.com Halifax, Atlantic Canada Megan Scheffers - megan@CottageDog.com Montreal, Quebec Canada Suzanne Bernardin - suzanne@CottageDog.com
Publisher Contact: CottageDog Publications 1393 Brunel Road Huntsville, ON P1H 2J3
Publication Agreement #: 42035032
To subscribe visit us online at: www.CottageDog.com or send CDN $26.99 plus HST ($30.50 taxes in) to: CottageDog 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.
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Inside This
Issue
38 Operation Starfish:
Leo’s Journey to Cottage Country. The NEWEST CottageDog from Kabul
42 How to Buy Your
Own Pet-friendly Cottage
46 How to be a Better Dog Walker
50 The CottageDog
32 10 Dock Dogs take the Plunge 18 The Year of the Cat 20 Chibley’s Travels Aboard the
Behaviour Quiz:
Good dog/bad dog?
60 Sweeteners and
Picton Castle
24 Puparazzi:
Calgary’s Pet Expo
28 Doggy Royalty:
The Westminster Dog Show, New York
32 From Kabul With Love
Dogs Don’t Mix
10
Bi&ts Bites Let sleeping pets lie?
Do we treat our pets better than people?
It’s a long-held belie f that many humans, given a choice between huma n company or that of their pets, would choose the latter. Don’t believe us ? Well, a recent study in the journal Emerging Infec tious Diseases suggests tha t sleeping with pets co uld put people at risk of contr acting parasites, virus es and other pathogens. But do es that stop you from letting Fido or Pusskins makin g a cozy nest at the botto m of your cottage bed? Didn ’t think so. The same stu dy in fact suggests we’re jus t as likely to infect an im als… betcha never thought that was possible? As further proof that we seem to enjoy treating our furry friends as much as we do our family (le t’s fac e it, when was the last tim e you let a two-legged co mpanion curl-up at the end of the bed?), an inc rea sing number of owners now take pet-food prod uc tion into their own hands. For example, many ow ne rs have taken to grinding chicken, beef… heck, ev en emu!... and preparing cooked dishes from org an ic ingredients. Why? Mo st do it for their belie f in the health benefits of org anic food and good old fas hioned home cooking. Says internationally ac claimed dog expert Ce sar Milan: “Organic has be come a new fashion, a new style of living. And if the human becomes aw are, if he eats organic, he wa nts everyone around him to be healthy, too. Especially the one that is always the re for you,” said dog expe rt Cesar Millan. Supporting Milan’s cla ims is the fact that sal es of pet foods that are organ ic or natural are expecte d to increase three times as fast as pet food overa ll. We rest our case… - 6 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
World’s Most Popular Cottage Dog… Labrador Retrievers like Rocky are North America’s #1 breed. (Ph oto: Tanya Gadoury, Ottawa, Ontario)
C’mon, I think deep down you knew this would happen… the #1 most popular dog in North America just so happens to be the perfect cottage dog. For the 20th year in a row, the American Kennel Club has named the Labrador Retriever its most popular dog, followed by the German Shepherd and Yorkshire Terrier. And despite the inclusion of the group’s dog registry next year to include three new breeds – Entlebucher Mountain Dog, Norwegian Lundehund and Xoloitzcuintli – we someone can’t help feeling the Retriever’s going to hang onto that top dog spot.
A Reader Writes… Dear Staff : of CottageDog, which I I have here your last three issues ON, locations in the last came across in two Bracebridge, missing only the first two few days. From what I can tell, I’m e. Do you have any spares prior to your Oct./Nov. 2010 issu I would certainly be willing of these that you could send me? to pay for them. I find this an excellent Despite some grammatical errors, ofreader but have visumagazine. I’d offer to be your pro is very limited. I was very al sensitivities and my eye work son’s story, although he pleased, however, to see Kerry Vin Muskoka, where I’ve lived used the word “lying” – here in ring people using “laying”. for 12½ years, I’m constantly hea n, we lie down. I’ve lived It drives me wild! We don’t lay dow es and never hear this error in seven cities and three provinc skoka. with such frequency as here in Mu ch success with it.
Beautiful magazine, I wish you mu Sincerely, to say about CottageDog? Have something good – or bad – Address your comments ! you If so, we want to hear from Brunel Rd., Huntsville, to: CottageDog Publications, 1393 lisa@CottageDog.com. ON P1H 2J3, or send an email to
(Miss) Monica Katchin Bracebridge
Fit For Two… Puggle Tails
and years ago not only brought Brock A chance meeting in a gym just five one of the start of what was to become Marta Picken together, it was also ple’s cou s in Canada. And, best of all, the the most successful online TV blog , Buf ple of real stars – their two puggles fitness-focused show included a cou and Henry.
eloped Two TV, Buf and Henry have dev Since being introduced to Fit For enterr own. A visit to their blog site will a large dedicated following of thei Would h wonderfully named episodes as tain for hours as viewers watch suc rious Puggles Eat Birthday Cookie. Hila You Eat A Puggle for Dinner and dogs. stuff… as are the bios of each of the ry, visit their website at To find out more about Buf and Hen ils. www.youtube.com/user/PuggleTa
CottageDog - Spring 2011 - 7 -
Bi&ts Bites
The Ultimate CottageDog Play H
ouse
Ready to spoil your pooch by giving them a real cottage treat? Then how about a cute little cottage of their very own, one that’ll not only make your dog happy, but will make you smile every time you see it? Look no further than the wonderful creations of Kids Crooked House Ontario, manufacturers of whimsical crooked playhouses for kids… and dogs, as the company’s ultra-cool playhouses are well suited for our four-legged friends, too. Originally out of Maine in the USA, Kids Crooked Houses can now be found in Gananoque, ON, where Canadian founders Brian Wooding and Ted Glover build their unique houses with pride.
Kids Crooked Houses also make excellent gifts, and are great promotion and fundraising tools when painted with a company’s logo and colors, or even a family name or crest. And they also make ideal pump houses or storage areas for your cottage retreat. For further details, contact mrwhite.kidscrookedhouse@bell.net, or visit www.kidscrookedhouse.com.
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// Your Daily Source for all Things Pet-related Here’s an Internet site you’re going to want to bookmark – and one ranking right up there with our very own www. CottageDog.com. The Toronto Pet Daily (www.torontopetdaily.com) is a fantastic resource for pet-related news… each and every day of the week. The website is a fantastic resource for the latest in breaking pet-related news, events, and many other things to do with our furry friends in and around Toronto. Need a hand with your pets? The site also includes the Toronto Pet Services Directory that lists dog walkers, groomers, pet photographers, dog trainers, and much, much more. Other categories encompass doggy daycare, pet bereavement, pet food and supplies… even poop and scoop services!
And the Winner Is.... Caption Contest Last issue, we asked readers to submit a caption for the cartoon on the right in order to win a fantastic Bark & Fritz prize! We were overwelmed with entries, and it took the CottageDog team hours arguing over the winners. But we did it, and here, then, are the lucky prize winners...
1st Place WINNER - hand-painted double feeder “I think we are safe until he starts to drool” Debra McIlroy, Baysville, Ontario
2nd Place WINNER - $50 Bark & Fitz Gift Card “Looks like we should have bought a bigger cottage, Dear” Dana Sheahan, Toronto, Ontario
3rd Place WINNER - $50 Bark & Fitz Gift Card “Marley --SIT. Good boy! Now, spit out the mailman.” Jenn Faya, Toronto, Ontario
“I think we are safe until he starts to drool”
Phoebe, Beagle, Stephanie Hounsell, Fort Erie, Ontario
Making a splash… By Karen Larocque
Dogs take the plunge in exciting cottage sport
D
ockDogs has been making a splash for over 11 years in the United States and is now also in England, Japan and Australia as well as 32 affiliated clubs in North America. It is without a doubt the fastest growing canine sport in the world. After seeing it on TV a few times, I was able to experience and watch my husband’s Aussie participates in a National DockDogs competition in September of 2007. As a result, we all fell in love with the sport and participated in many events the following year, which involved quite a bit of travelling to Toronto. During that year our passion grew, wonderful friendships were formed and, at the end of the 2008 season, a group of DockDogs enthusiasts decided they wanted to help me share their passion for this great dog sport in order that more people, whether they be participant or a spectator, could experience the exciting world of DockDogs. And so, in January 2009, 1000 Islands DockDogs was born, and in just two years has grown and evolved with tremendous success in Eastern Ontario. Membership has grown from just 34 to over 128, and 2011 will be our 3rd season and is already proving to be our biggest and best one yet, with four events in Kingston, Brockville, Ottawa and Gananoque already booked.
What’s it all about? A DockDogs event consists of any dog over the age of six months and their handler (minimum age seven years), a 40-foot dock, a 40-foot pool of water… and the dog’s favourite floatable toy. Everyone is more than welcome to participate and to give it a try by competing in one or all four disciplines: Big Air, Extreme Vertical, Speed Retrieve and Speed Swim. Big Air (BA) is the long jump equivalent for canine athletes. Big Air dogs catapult themselves off the end of the 40-foot dock into a 28,000-gallon pool of water to retrieve their favourite floatable toy. As they run down the dock, dogs can reach speeds over 20 mph, and the jump distances are then measured from the end of the dock, to where the base of the dog’s tail enters the water. Currently, the BA World Record stands at 28 feet - 10 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
frommpetfood.ca 11 inches and is held by a Coonhound Mix named Country. Extreme Vertical (EV) was introduced in 2005 and is the high jump portion of a DockDogs event. In this event, the dog launches upward and tries to grab or knock down a bumper suspended over the water from rigging set eight feet out from the edge of the dock. The starting height is just four feet and is adjusted in two-inch increments for different dogs and levels of ability. The current EV World Record is eight feet – yes, that’s eight feet out and eight feet up! Speed Retrieve (SR) is the speed element – similar to drag racing for dogs except the dog races against the clock, not a competitor. It was introduced to the DockDogs world in 2008 and involves a run, jump and swim for the dog. The clock starts when the dog leaves the starting line, which is 20 feet from the pool end of the dock, and stops when the dog grabs the duck suspended at the end of the pool. Speed Retrieve is a race against the clock, and the current SR World Record is 4.62 seconds.
Bond, Australian Shepherd, Mark & Karen Larocque, Maitland, Ontario. Tangent, Yellow Lab, Ken Pollard Edmonton Alberta
Speed Swim (SS) uses the same rules as Speed Retrieve – the difference is that there is a 12 inch wide white line at the end of the dock that is used as a starting block. The object of this discipline is for the dog to jump from the end of the dock and swim to the toy at the end of the pool. It is a timed
100
Isl an ds
0
DockDogs
Jelly, Bulldog, Marilyn Corbett, Caledon, Ontario event. Unfortunately, this discipline is not offered at many events, but if it is, give it a try – it’s a great way to build the drive for Speed Retrieve.
Making the big time Each club awards every participant a ribbon at every event, and everyone gets a chance to make the finals, win ribbons, prizes or money and earn regional points. DockDogs keeps track of the dogs’ best jumps from every event in their database. They also calculate the lap dog standings (dogs under 17” at the withers), veteran dog standings (dogs over eight years of age), and legend dog standings (dogs over 10 years of age), and at the National DockDogs Championships each year these special dogs are able to compete in these classes. With new training concepts available, DockDogs now has a number of talented dogs willing to do just about anything for the ultimate reward – their favourite toy. And let’s face it, what could be easier than throwing a toy for your dog to build that fabulous bond and relationship? All DockDogs did was add a dock and water! Training for DockDogs is quite simple: it starts with one concept at a time and does not require a lot of time or money. It’s all about toy drive, fun, and love for water. Their toy needs to be the only thing they think about, and essentially they’ll do anything to get it (including jumping in a pool of water). Retrieval is the next step. Get your dog used to going into the water to retrieve their toy, and then slowly work your way up to jumping off a dock. Once you have mastered this, you will want to tackle the distance. This involves drive, speed and the ability to start the jump from the very end of the dock, which is the best possible launch spot. Next comes the speed and angle of the dog’s launch, elements which really work together. A lot of dogs don’t use the entire dock and have slower speeds, but increase the distance of their jumps because they are able to get what is called “pop”, or the proper angle, to make a great jump. Of course, there are other elements that contribute to the success of your dog’s jump, such as the accuracy and distance of the handler’s throw. Unfortunately, your dog is less likely to have a great jump without a great throw – they go hand in hand. - 12 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
Diesel, Border Collie, Heather McLeod, Weston, Ontario Heather McLeod is an official DockDogs trainer and part of the 1000 Islands DockDogs team. She will offer training and tips, both on and off the dock, and is also the proud owner of Diesel, Canada’s first Super Elite DockDog, jumping 25’ 11”. He was also the top ranked Canadian Big Air Champion in 2008 and 2009, and is the top Ranked Border Collie Worldwide (visit her at www.ruffsport.ca). 1000 Islands DockDogs will also offer training time at each event for anyone interested, and someone will always be available to answer any and all questions, or help participants in any way.
Cheyenne, Golden Retriever, Heather McLeod, Weston, Ontario
No matter how your dog jumps, every 1000 Islands DockDogs event is always surrounded by a 100% positive environment and zero discrimination, so anyone can come out, register a dog, and give it a try. All you need is a dog that likes the water and loves their toy! Participating in any DockDogs event can be one of the most invigorating and rewarding things people can do with their dogs. There are many unique aspects to DockDogs, but by building a strong relationship, trust, and confidence between you and your dog, you will be on your way to becoming a successful DockDogs team. 1000 Islands DockDogs is thrilled to join the DockDogs family as one of Canada’s newest affiliated DockDogs club! The group already has five events in the works, so 2011 is going to be a very busy and exciting year for us and we can’t wait to get started. Please check out www.1000islandsdockdogs or www.dockdogs.com for more information, or email me larocque5@sympatico.ca. See you on the dock! b
Big Air - Extreme Vertical Speed Retrieve
T r a in in g
One on One, Board & Train, Weekly Classes, Worldwide DockDog and Affiliate Incentives, Funday Fridays, Weekend Workshops, Rentals, Events & Competitions
Weekend Camp
Contact heather@ruffsport.ca
416-749-1669
June 3-4-5
Isl an 0
ds
Karen Larocque is President of 1000 Islands DockDogs.
www.ruffsport.ca
45 Minutes North of Toronto 100
Karen Larocque
-
DockDogs
Events Guiness, Nova Scotia Duck Toller, Melissa Doren, Mississauga, Ontario
Duncan, Chocolate Lab, John & Terri Chaston, Hamilton, Ontario
Date
Event
Contact
June 18 & 19
Urban Paws in Kingston, Ontario 1000 Islands DockDogs Event
July 1-3
Riverfest in Brockville, Ontario
1000 Islands DockDogs Event
July 8-10
Belleville Waterfront & Ethnic Festival in Belleville, Ontario
1000 Islands DockDogs Event
July 16 & 17
Dog Days of Summer in Scugog, Ontario
Ontario DockDogs Event
July 20-24
Red Deer Westerner Fair and Exposition
Alberta National DockDogs Event
July 21-23
Take the Plunge in Ottawa, Ontario
Ontario DockDogs Event
July 29-Aug 1
Alberta Kennel Club Classic at Spruce Meadows, Alberta
Alberta National DockDogs Event
August 12-14
Mutts About the 1000 Islands in Gananoque, Ontario
Ontario DockDogs Event
August 20 & 21
Carrot Fest in Bradford, Ontario
DockDogs Event
For more information and an up to date list of events, please visit www.dockdogs.com and click on events. - 14 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
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Bigwinnd with PAW Dog live: Isla e CulinaryPaddling rkTAIL FeALathersgA new life t a aa- dUNC ITION in P OND n e ar a in in C do Algonqu Muskoofkrita MableLOVE:Breathin into an old ash oSher man ch Whaitt htothe Family ! gths Stren Ts u A w B PiC Family Ties How to ? Cottage Snow go... WINTERIZE Skijoring’s Your dog cottage fun! y h s ays Itcorie Mem D g o r D a of GINGER mePuperaz m zi N I : Su at ry Stsig +W oofnsistm ! as urst Bear Chr CALGAR Deerh Ignoring the ways Pet ExpoY’SCanine’s Guide Chibley’s Geta , e g toSKIING la ! il Travels v u a s ad: COLLINGWOOD Aboard the RoseseTo ThTh e DeoRgoad ALohe ss r ZZI te n Go Life af PUPARA DOCK DOGS PIC CosyCottageTON DOG CESAR Take the theCASTLE Goes toDogs Plunge! MILAN Vol. 2, Issue 1
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NEW FEATURES FOR THIS YEAR: • NEW! Dock Dogs in the Pet Valu Dog Demonstration Ring • NEW! You won’t want to miss the amazing K9 performers “All About Dogs” in the Pet Valu Dog Demonstration Ring. • NEW! Meet Brad Pattison host of TV reality show “At The End of My Leash” • NEW! World of Dogs sponsored by Royal Canin
OTHER FEATURE ATTRACTIONS: • Royal Canin Championship and Household Cat Show produced in co-operation with Club Meow-wow and sanctioned by the Canadian Cat Association. • Centre Stage sponsored by Milk-Bone featuring educational seminars, Pet Fashion Show sponsored by Merrick Pet Care, hosted by Doggie Q and the Reptile Show. • Pet Adoption Area sponsored by Legacy Valuing Tradition. Also meet Jazz from 1-2 daily in the Legacy booth. • Total Pet Care Stage sponsored by Global Pet Foods • Ask the Trainer, World of Birds, Pet Grooming Showcase and over 150 vendors with Show Specials and services - 16 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
ETS SHOW
April 22-24, 2011
Easter’s Family Pet Festival
International Centre, Mississauga (6900 Airport Rd. & Derry) Free Parking
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ALSO FEATURING: Jazz, the Miniature Therapy Pony Jazz is both a show horse and a therapy horse who visits nursing homes across Ontario. Jazz recently placed in the top 10 in the American Miniature Horse Registry Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He can jump and do obstacles and is a must see!
Adults: $12 Seniors (60+): $8 Youths (6-17): $8 Children under 5: Free Family Pass: (2 Adults & 2 Youths) $35
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For more details please visit www.allaboutpetsshow.com or call 1-289-878-6809 Purchase your tickets online and save at www.allaboutpetsshow.com
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Cattails:
The Year of the Cat New initiative aims at aiding our feline friends Photography by Scruffy Dog Photography
S
hove over rabbits… CottageDog is celebrating the Year of the Cat! That’s right, you heard us. Just because we’re a dog magazine doesn’t mean we can’t, from time to time, honour our furry feline friends, too. And this issue of CottageDog is certainly no exception. To get things going, we’re following the exploits of Chibley, our seafaring connection aboard the tall ship Picton Castle. Chibley’s got to be the world’s best travelled cat, and we catch up to her after she jumps ship and goes AWOL for a few days while sailing the southern extremes of the Atlantic Ocean. (See story page 20.) A little closer to home – and definitely a tale for landlubbers – is the wonderful story of Care for Cats, a long-term project that will respond to Canada’s current cat overpopulation crisis – in a good way, naturally. The group aims to do this by creating and distributing impactful public education programs and support materials, encouraging community collaboration across all pet industry sectors, and providing accurate resources. Formed in 2011, the Year of the Cat is the group’s first project and was initiated in acknowledgment of the fact that the problem can’t be completely solved in a single year. “The Year of the Cat is a Canada-wide initiative intended to get rid of the myths and give only the facts,” says Dr. Elizabeth O’Brien, a Hamilton veterinarian and feline - 18 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
specialist, as well as the official spokesperson for Care for Cats. “There’s even physical proof that dogs receive better care than cats.” O’Brien refers to the 2008 Business of Urban Animals Survey (BUAS) commissioned by PetLynx Corporation for the International Summits for Urban Animal Strategies. The study provided statistical proof of what people working in animal shelters and veterinary hospitals have known for decades, says O’Brien: “Cats are not generally valued as much as dogs. In almost every category covered by this survey, dogs received better care.” According to the survey, of the 8.5-million cats in Canada half do not receive regular veterinary care and 54 per cent of cat owners who had not spayed or neutered their pet reported that they were “unlikely” to have them fixed in the following year. (The full survey can be viewed at www.tsuas.com.) “The message we need to get to the public is not only about the importance of spaying and neutering cats as a means of population control,” O’Brien said. “We also have to try to change attitudes about the intrinsic value of cats in our society.” SPCA branches across Canada are working collaboratively with Year of the Cat initiatives, including a cat
awareness month campaign and adopt-a-thon in May, a National Cat ID Week from Sept. 23-Oct. 2 and another adopt-a-thon in December. Key messages being delivered to communities across the country include: •
The importance of spaying and neutering to curb cat over-population and improve cats’ health and wellbeing;
•
Effective methods of delivering spay/neuter financial assistance programs;
•
Improving existing Trap/Neuter/Release programs and introducing them to new communities;
•
Increasing animal shelter ‘Return-to-Owner’ rates through identification, registration and licensing;
•
Educating individuals about cats and creating an awareness of the importance of routine veterinary care for cat health.
For more information Year of the Cat initiatives, visit www.careforcats.ca. b
Dr. Liz O’Brien is official spokesperson for Care for Cats, a new initiative that will respond to Canada’s cat overpopulation crisis by encouraging community collaboration across all pet industry and public sectors.
Chibley’s Travels
A sea-faring cat aboard the Tallship Picton Castle
- 20 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
W
elcome aboard, me hearties! As part of our celebration of The Year of the Cat – a nationwide campaign spearheaded by Care for Cats in response to the over-population of felines – CottageDog Magazine has asked the Captain and crew of the tall ship Picton Castle to keep tab(by)s on the exploits of the ship’s cat, Chibley (or, as the world’s best travelled feline would have it, Picton Castle is Chibley’s ship!). Second only to Captain Daniel Moreland in the amount of time spent on the ship – and in rank – Chibley has sailed around the world four times, been to the Great Lakes twice, made numerous voyages on the Atlantic coast of the US and Canada and the Caribbean, and spent a year sailing around the Atlantic basin. But of all the wonderful places she’s visited, her favourite is Lunenburg. When a landlubber, Chibley loves patrolling the Lunenburg waterfront, lying in the sun on the lawn of the Fishermen’s Memorial or exploring the smells at the Dory Shop. ***** Photography by Picton Castle
Captain’s Log – March 2011: We just sailed from Luderitz, Namibia, bound across the beautiful South Atlantic Ocean on the final leg of our fifth world tour. No crewmember was as pleased as Chibley to get under sail. Luderitz is built on rocks and surrounded by rocks, sand… and sand dunes. We motored in slowly in the kind of thick o’fog that makes Nova Scotians feel right at home! But as the radiant land heat burned it off, I was struck with how completely arid the landscape was. It was like one of those NASA photos of Mars – dry as a bone, and pretty desolate. First Mate Chibley certainly didn’t like the place. We embarrassed her by attaching a long string tied from a post on deck to her collar, keeping her onboard like some convict. Why? Well, herein lies a salty tale… Like any good sailor, Chibley loves to explore and make new friends. But as her Captain, I felt that the enticing aroma of fish (you or I would call it a stench) coming from the fishing boats bobbing in the harbour might prove too much for her to resist. Rather than risk losing her as a stowaway on another vessel, I curtailed her freedom. Chibley has disappeared in port before. Five years ago, while at harbour in Reunion, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, she disappeared for four days – that’s a long time for any crewmember to be AWOL. You can easily spot Reunion about 50 miles out to sea, two towering peaks on either side of the island disappearing into the clouds, the highest peak rising nearly 11,500 feet above CottageDog - Spring 2011 - 21 -
sea level. Taking in all sail, we slowed down so we could enjoy the amazing scene before us. If you’re ever planning on jumping ship like Chibley, you couldn’t do much better than Reunion. It’s a large Island with over 645,000 people and every outdoor sport you can imagine – canyoning, paragliding, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and my favorite, people watching while sitting on a nice, white, sandy beach with a nice bottle of red. I had the crew clean the ship top to bottom so we looked prettier than ever. Seaman Bruce was the ‘Brasso King’, making all the brass sparkly, and all the living spaces got a good tidy up to ensure we were presentable. Once in port, I ordered all hands on deck as I squeezed us into a tiny gap that acts as a throughway into the inner harbour where we will dock. With Danie at the controls going slowly… slowly… and Lynsey in the skiff with some line handlers ready to drop lines on the dock and push the bow around – and Chibley watching over them to make sure they get it right – I maneuvered carefully past the narrow entrance into the inner harbor, then spun us around and back into the little space readied for us. I then broke the crew into shore watches. Those off-watch headed to Internet cafés, laundromats, ATMs, hotels, restaurants and any roadside stand selling cool drinks. It must have been then that Chibley disappeared…
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After her third day missing, I sent out a search party, beginning with the endless cavernous warehouses. Most were locked, and much of the search took place by flashlight, peering in windows, shimmying under fences and otherwise lurking around suspiciously. Then, on the afternoon of day four, Chibley sauntered down the wharf toward the ship as if nothing was awry. I scooped her up with the same urgency a mother would a lost child, unsure whether to hug her or scold her. Where the heck had she been without my permission? Did she get catnapped? Was she partying and meeting boys? Short of strapping a tiny camera to her, these are questions we’ll never be able to answer. I’ve now got Picton Castle on a course for home, and we’re due to arrive at Chibley’s home base in Lunenburg, NS, on June 18. She’ll be glad to take a nap amongst the spare canvas sails in our warehouse or the bright sun and wood shavings at the Dory Shop, or enjoying the sights and smells of the waterfront. But not for long… two weeks later she’ll be setting sail again, this time for a summer jaunt around Newfoundland.
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CottageDog - Spring 2011 - 23 -
Jessica Cummings, Velma and Jen Kaiser with Actions Speak Louder
Burnese mountain dog Emily watches Carol Selkshinitz
Dock Dogs, Ken Pollard
Kruger with pals from Springbank Pet Resort
PUPARAZZI! Words & Photos By Pam Doyle
Calgary’s Pet Expo a howling success It was hugely apparent that dog really is man’s best friend as over 12,000 people poured into the Big Four building at Stampede Park to attend the 11th Annual Pet Expo held in Calgary on March 26th and 27th. With 76 exhibitors and several seminars and shows on the main stage, dog lovers had all the bases covered. The Due South Dancer and Drill team showed off their choreographed precision work and later did some K-9 square dancing, all to the delight of the crowd. The Calgary Longshots displayed their dogs’ ability to do agility and fly ball. “It’s all about fun,” Deb Golding, a member of Due South said. “Everybody gets to play. We’ve even had people with knee replacements joining in the fun.” Golding’s purebred German shepherd Walker was having a great time, too, as he tried out Spot On K9 treadmills. Cooldog.ca’s Sherri Olsen, Ben, and Rayna Bergerman, of Inspired Learning Centres Alberta Bulldog Rescue’s Winston kisses Dawn Korkie in a kissing booth
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The event was a tail-wagging success, with several exhibitors handing out free goodies and event goers had a chance to win thousands of dollars in door prizes. Lore Bruder with corgie Bonnie
Lindsay Thomas’s schnauzer Digger Bonnie and legs
Calgary Longshots schnauzer Zina jumps an agility hoop
Luann Killoran with her corgi, Brazil
Token, a German shepherd with Due South
Electra, an Alberta Guide Dog puppy in training, with foster mom, Marg Andrusky
Tara Connors and Cubby, from the Xolo Rescue League
Ride Dogs Ride Inc.’s Glen Garland and super cool pup Davidson
CottageDog - Spring 2011 - 25 -
Biker dog apparel from Ride Dogs Ride, Inc.
Walker tests Spot On K9 Treadmills
Deb Golding holds Drummer Boy
Calgary Longshots’ Taylor Bissell with her dog Whisky.
Joyce Kao, with Pound Rescue of Okotoks, holds pup Diesel.
Southern Alberta Working and Herding Dog Assoc., (SAWHD), president Judy Snowden runs Drummer through a body agility course
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American cocker spaniel Dazzle, owned by Ellen Kovar, is a Canadian champion
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Doggy Royalty By Sue Guthrie
A Dream Visit to New York’s Westminster Dog Show
Photography by John Ashbey & Sue Guthrie
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e’ve always loved watching the Westminster Dog Show on television. It seems to be shown in December in Canada, about 10 months after the show itself, but it’s perfect Christmas entertainment even if it is out of date by the time it reaches us. The Westminster is not just any dog show, it’s the ultimate dog show, with not just good dogs, but the best dogs. And so we decided to put it on our bucket list, our list of things we wanted to see before we kicked the bucket. This was the year we did it. Our first surprise was that it was wasn’t hard to do. We bought our tickets online but found out later we could have bought them at Madison Square Gardens on the show days themselves. The venue is central, on the New York subway line, easy to find, and easy to access – once up the escalator you’re surrounded by dogs. The next surprise was that you can touch the dogs! Not all of them, of course, but those that are being walked here and there in the busy benching area… some are up on benches taking in the scene, some undergoing the most amazing grooming processes (oh, those poor Poodles, those great heaps of Old English Sheepdog!). Others are visible resting in their crates. And, because they’re all such very good dogs, none are barking. It’s noisy, but the noises are human noises, excited chatter, the hum of hundreds and hundreds of hair dryers. - 28 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
The judging rings are also surprisingly accessible. We had been told that seats for the judging would be hard to get, that all the good ones were owned by season-ticket holders who came every year. Consequently, we expected to have to sit far away watching dogs as little specks in the distance. No. The good seats are reserved, but you can sit in them until the legitimate ticket-holder shows up – fortunately for us, these people seemed to come mostly in the evenings.
Up close and personal On the floor of the arena, between the judging rings, are open areas in which you can walk and stand. I worked my way into good positions several times, standing close to the Dobermans (glossy beyond belief, and generally still and alert), the Huskies (coats brushed out into impossibly white clouds tinged with gold or grey, loving their moment in the limelight), the Irish Setters (high stepping across the ring, feathery fur fanning beautifully), and the Duck Tollers (much more serviceable, sturdy, bouncy, intent). From a little further away I enjoyed the Border Collies as they scuttled into the ring in an urgent group, full of purpose and unpredictable motion. Then the German Shepherds who crouch, trembling with intensity, looking outward into the crowd from deeply worried dark faces. My personal Best in Show? Ta da! The Borzois! Oh, talk about glamour and dignity, not to mention grace. The Borzois rippled across the ring in long, slow strides like a snowstorm across a Russian plain. The Borzois did not look out at the crowd, nor did they appear to enjoy the ring or the applause. In fact, they looked as if they found the whole experience demeaning. Later, I sought out my favourite Borzoi (a vision in grey and white) in the benching area. Naturally, no Borzois are on display to be handled and petted by the general public. I found him in his huge crate covered with a blanket which I took the liberty of lifting slightly. He was lying still, obviously exhausted from the stress, and had taken great care to remove every piece of dog food from his bowl and spread it over the floor of his crate so that his owner would know of his displeasure. Human categories at the Dog Show are these: 1) Owners who, like owners of famous race horses, show up for photographs after the judging; 2) Breeders (who are often owners, too), busy and friendly in the benching area as they also sell puppies; and 3) Handlers, for whom I have an entirely new respect. Handlers, for all I know, may also
discomfort, but enough to keep it pacing elegantly. (Try that with a Bull Mastiff. I confess there were moments of amusement with the lumbering dogs, as well as the smaller dogs with their tiny legs.) Each handler had support people at ringside with spray bottles of water (at least I assume it was water), larger grooming aids, the essential treats, and bags full of supplies that might be needed.
“Talk about glamour and dignity, not to mention grace. The Borzoi ripples across the ring in long, slow strides like a snowstorm across a be owners or breeders, but some who worked with many different dogs in different competitions were obviously professionals. Clearly they must develop some relationship with and knowledge of each dog they handle.
Handlers earn their keep Observed from ringside, there is a hugely serious amount of effort going forth from the handlers as they watch the judge’s every glance, using treats to bribe their dog into that perfect position for the moment the judge looks their way. Running the dog is an art, too; I realized at one point that the beautiful, high-stepping, heads-up, pacing across the ring is the product of the handler running at just the right speed holding the tension on the leash at just the right level – not enough to cause the dog
Russian plain.” And apart from the owners, breeders and handlers, there are the groomers (they could also be any of the other categories but, like the handlers, are often simply hard-working specialists). The groomers work patiently for hours on patient dogs. Their equipment is beyond description and in some cases even includes colouring agents of various kinds. I remember one groomer who, while working on a very tiny dog, had a permanently running hair dryer strapped to his waist, manoevering it as required with subtle hip tilts while he back-combed. We went to the final judging for which we had to sit in our real seats, very remote indeed from the ring where Best in Show happens with a lot of fanfare and hoop-la. We watched the event on the giant television screen provided and cheered when the Scottish Deerhound won. A large, dignified dog with wiry fur… although far from a cute or cuddly choice, she certainly seemed worthy. b
Sue Guthrie Sue Guthrie retired to Huntsville with her husband Rod, taking their shared bucket list with them. Apart from the Westminster Dog Show (check), a trip to India (check), and hiking along Hadrian’s Wall (check), the list includes some things still not done. They miss their departed border collie but have many visiting canine friends in whom they take a keen interest. - 30 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
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Peanut’s journey‌ By Pam Constable
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he was a small honey-colored pup, thin and dirty
prized by nomadic farmers, and wealthy families some-
and rooting in the garbage for food. She was far too
times import German shepherds or other exotic breeds
young to be alone and wandering in a village in the middle
as status symbols. But local stray dogs that have no com-
of a war zone. She had a terrible case of worms and shied
mercial value or purpose are shunned and ignored at best.
away from people. Her mother was probably long dead,
They live in the shadows of towns and villages, waiting for
and if a kind soul had not spotted her, scooped her up and
garbage to be dumped. Often they die slowly of hunger,
sent her to us, she probably would have perished, too.
disease and untreated injuries.
Her name was Peanut, although until that moment
Peanut was one of the lucky few. The sympathetic for-
she had no name and was one of hundreds of thousands
eigner who spotted her had a phone number to call and
of homeless, hungry small animals who haunt the city
a place to take her, a small shelter and rescue program
streets and villages of Afghanistan. It is a harsh coun-
in Kabul, supported by the Afghan Stray Animal League
try, marked by desperate poverty and years of conflict,
since 2004. There the Afghan staff vaccinated her against
where the dominant ethos is one of survival. It is a coun-
rabies and distemper and parvo virus, and gave her medi-
try where children are brought up to fear and revile dogs
cine to get rid of the worms. She had rice with meat sauce
as dangerous and diseased, where clerics preach that it
to eat every day, a wooden sleeping house with a blanket,
is religiously unclean to touch dogs or bring them inside
and a dozen other pups to play with in a large outdoor
a house, and where families hardened by war and want
pen. Nobody threw stones at her, and she felt safe for the
have little resources or compassion to spare for pets.
first time in her life.
Dog fighting is a popular gambling sport in this male-
The next challenge was finding Peanut a home. There
dominated culture. Big fighting mastiffs are well fed and
were few Afghan families who could afford to keep a pet or
carefully kept, dogs who guard sheep and camel herds are
who understood the responsibilities that entailed. Most of
- 32 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
Photography by Pam Constable
From Kabul to Canada in a heartbeat
those interested in adopting dogs wanted them to be large and aggressive property guards rather than family companions, and they chained or caged them alone outside. Few were interested in small female pups that needed affection and protection, or understood the benefits of spaying them. So we sent around a photo of Peanut on our website and a group of American friends, called the Puppy Rescue Mission, did the same, in an effort to find her a loving home abroad and raise the funds to send her there. There is a dog for every person, and a person for every dog. Peanut’s person turned out to be Laurie, an animal lover from Queensville, who saw the photograph of the little brown hound with the big sad eyes and instantly fell in love. Like many people who have adopted needy Afghan pups, she was a little worried at first about whether Peanut would arrive safely and adapt to life in a modern country. Would she like the food? Would she bring any diseases or strange behavior with her? Would she get along with Laurie’s other pets or see them as dangerous rivals?
Tribal Elder from Jalalabad
Pups hanging out by the wood stove
CottageDog - Spring 2011 - 33 -
There was also a momentary feeling of guilt, knowing that there were so many other dogs in local shelters who also needed love and affection and a place to call home. But the difference was that in Afghanistan, a little pup like Peanut had little chance of survival, scavenging for garbage and trying to fend off larger animals. There was no place for a dog like her, and there was a good chance she might be caught and abused by street boys looking for a live object to torment, or killed by health officials who put out meat laced with poison to control rabies and keep down the stray dog population. Another troubling issue for a potential adopter was the cost – several thousand dollars to ship a dog from Afghanistan to Toronto or an American city. This was enough to feed and vaccinate and shelter hundreds of other dogs – and also money that could be spent instead to help needy Afghan families or children. On the other hand, that sum was a fraction of what many wealthy pet owners in the West lavished on their pedigreed animals, and the rescue of a small dog by private donors who gave a few hundred dollars each took nothing away from the millions of dollars that had poured into Afghanistan from international
- 34 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
Tribal Elders seated in their turbans at a political picnic in badakshan province
Waiting patiently to be sent home with the soldier who adopted him
charities and governments around the world to help its
smoothly. Peanut curled up and slept the whole way to
human population.
Queensville.
There was also something uniquely meaningful about
After a week of introducing Peanut to her home and as-
helping a puppy from a distant war zone. Afghanistan
sortment of other pets, Laurie sent this email to those of
was a battle ground where many Canadian, British and
us who had helped arrange Peanut’s rescue and journey
American soldiers, as well as diplomats and international
home: “What a little sparkle this one is! There is a pres-
aid workers, had rescued homeless or suffering dogs and
ence and a confidence about her that one does not usu-
cats. Sometimes they literally grabbed them away from
ally see in puppies,” she wrote. “We are still blending, but
boys who were tormenting them for fun by tying them up,
there is more calmness. I’m still in the process of work-
kicking them like balls, or cutting off their ears and tails.
ing out routines and supporting the wisdom of our ani-
The foreign soldiers, raised in more affluent cultures where many families kept pets, found an outlet for their affection and protective instincts and someone to love in a harsh, hostile and often dangerous environment. Sometimes they were able to send them home, with help from the Puppy Rescue Mission or other charities. Often, however, they were forbidden to keep them because of military rules, and for various reasons they were not able to adopt them. In these cases we did our best to find them other homes, sometimes keeping them at the shelter for many months in the meantime. For Laurie, it was a case of love at first sight. She saw Peanut’s photograph on the website, read a brief description of her struggles to survive in the streets and decided Peanut belonged in her home near Toronto. She had a thousand questions, but no doubts. She was eager to get her new pup home, but even after the money was raised for her trip and Peanut was put on a flight to New York, her journey was complicated by the winter weather and
mal family, but the transition is exceeding expectations.” At the vet’s office for a checkup, she added, “everyone thought the little Peanut the dearest of dogs. She melted everyone’s heart.” Peanut is one of hundreds of dogs and cats who have been rescued from Afghanistan over the past seven years, often by Western soldiers, diplomats and aid workers with the help of The Afghan Stray Animal League, and sent to permanent happy homes in the United States, Canada, and other countries. One of them was a white shepherd who was hit by a truck outside the Canadian embassy in Kabul and left with paralyzed legs. Someone called us and we sent a driver to pick her up. We named her Maple and kept her at the shelter for months. Gradually, with a lot of encouragement, she learned to walk again and became a strong and healthy dog. Last year Maple was adopted by a family in Long Island, New York, where she loves going on long romps in the local dog park.
airline restrictions on cold weather travel for pets. In the
Another was a dog named Leo, a shaggy male shep-
end, Laurie had to drive to Buffalo to pick her up. All the
herd mix, who caught the attention of some friends at the
dog’s papers were in order, and they crossed the border
embassy. He was hovering in the shadows near the guard CottageDog - Spring 2011 - 35 -
booths, and he seemed to be trying to protect a female dog who was about to give birth in the street. A woman from the embassy called the shelter to come and rescue them. That night the pregnant dog disappeared and may have been injured, but Leo reached the shelter safely and was soon flown to Toronto, where he is now a guest of the CottageDog program. The Afghan Stray Animal League is grateful to Laurie, Albert, Lisa, and all its other friends and supporters in Canada as well as the United States who have helped with donations, supplies, arranging flights and airport pickups, and finding homes for these needy dogs from the Afghan war zone. To find out more about our work or make a donation, please go to www.afghanstrayanimals.org or email kabulcritters@gmail.com.
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Pam Constable Text and photos by Pamela Constable, an animal lover and journalist from the US who has been helping find shelter, veterinary care and permanent homes for needy dogs in Afghanistan for the past seven years. For more information about this project, go to www.afghanstrayanimals.org.
Sham, a sweet shelter dog who was adopted two years ago by a wonderful family in Georgia
Chewy
Introducing
the NEW
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Maple
Dana
Sabot
Peanut & Friends
Photography by Scruffy Dog Photography
Operation Starfish International efforts… and a whole lot of heart… find Leo a new home
By Jodi McMurray
I
am acutely aware I have missed my calling. Well, that’s as far as the manifestation of my calling as profession. My connection with animals is a part of who I am, raging inside my DNA since birth. In fact, my first memories are of the animals I have known and loved. I can tell you of the cats I fed in Dubrovnik, the puppy in Montenegro I let sleep in my hotel for the night, the cat that charmed me at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem, the horse who stole my heart in Jordan or about the tiny kitten who showed up on my doorstep in a blizzard 10 years ago and who never left. The landscape of my life is painted with memories of animals, companions, and teachers. Each one paving the way, every one of their acquaintances opening my heart a little bit more to the possibility of a dog named Leo. No one should be surprised by how the story has ended, least of all me. But I am! Where did it begin? In July 2010, I returned to Kabul, Afghanistan, for the third time to work with the Canadian International Development - 38 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
Photography by Kelly Holinshead
Agency (CIDA) at the Canadian Embassy. It was a short assignment, a blur really – 9.5 hour time difference, jet lag, intense work days, altitude all contributed to the haze. The only thing I can clearly recall is Rabies. Yes, that’s the name someone at the Embassy lovingly named him and it stuck. Rabies. The dog that resembled a miniature lion ruled the street the Embassy is located on. He was cared for and fed by the guards and staff and spent his days lying by the Embassy entrance waiting for affection, or sleeping soundly at the feet of the guards, or in his favorite spot, right in the middle of the road. And when I say sleep, I mean dead to the world. Colleagues would sometimes ask, “Is he alive?” On more than one occasion the guards had to drag him off the street since he would just tempt the fates as trucks came rolling through and swerved around him. Occasionally, he’d wake to defend his little piece of the street from other dogs or a wandering cat. I tried to maintain emotional distance; I was, after all, only in Kabul for two weeks and had my own dog and two cats to return to. And so I left.
Back to Kabul In December I returned to Kabul for a year. As I prepared to leave Canada, there were a few jokes made about how many pets I’d return with. I chuckled but knew there was no way I was coming home with more. Finding homes for the three I already had while I was away and then leaving them in the care of others was by far the hardest thing I have ever done. Swollen eyed from tears, as I left there was no way on earth I was going to bring the possibility of more heartache into my life!
“The landscape of my life is painted with memories of animals, companions, and teachers, every one of their acquaintances opening my heart a little bit more to the possibility of a dog named Leo.” I arrived in Kabul on December 23rd and there he was… Rabies. My heart filled with joy as he ran over to me, tail wagging and ready for a belly rub. And he wasn’t alone this time. There was a black and white female across the street watching him. She was opposite to him in every way, submissive and wary, and wouldn’t dare venture too close. Clearly this girl had been harmed. I named her Luna. I also re-named Rabies. Leo seemed so much better suited… the little Lion, the King of Hearts. Over the next few weeks I saw Leo and Luna many times a day, and Luna would eventually come within a foot of me but would never allow herself to be touched. With Leo, she would run and play and curl up next to him. He protected her and she was the only dog he’d allow on the street. One day I noticed Luna was pregnant, and sure enough the next day she delivered puppies. She took the puppies off our street and made a den for them somewhere we couldn’t follow. She returned everyday to eat and play with Leo and then would return to her hiding place. At dinner one day I noted I hadn’t seen Luna and the military men who normally kept me apprised of the dogs lowered their heads. No one wanted to tell me. A car had hit Luna as she was crossing the street back to the Embassy that afternoon and was
killed. They searched high and low for her puppies but were unsuccessful. Heartbreak found me. For the next few days, Leo would lay on the street, curled up in a ball. He wouldn’t greet me or play. He was clearly mourning the loss of his friend. Seeing him suffer through two days of rain, curled in a ball on the muddy ground, was the final tug on my heart. I made a commitment that day to take responsibility for him, though I had no idea how! He wasn’t allowed on the compound, and the local shelter was full. I did manage to move him to a part of the Embassy grounds that were walled and guarded. It wasn’t ideal but it seemed safer than the street. Except he escaped all the time, and I’d spend many days wrapping my scarf around his neck as a leash and walking him back to the compound. I understood why he wanted out; it was a rocky wasteland without foot traffic, lots of attention and nothing to guard. This simply wasn’t going to work. But what were the alternatives? CottageDog - Spring 2011 - 39 -
The boy and the starfish The internal and external voices were loud and clear: “You can’t save them all, Jodi.” “He’s a street dog, he’s happy on the street.” “It’s just a dog.” All of these comments fueled my conversations with myself – what was I thinking, I already had three pets! “You are so going to be the crazy old woman with too many pets,” I told myself. “How can I afford to send him home? And what if he doesn’t get along with Lily, Piper and Jasper, then what?” I can’t tell you when those voices were quieted. I don’t think they ever were. I think my heart just got louder. Memories of the story of the boy and the starfish, his efforts to throw them back in the ocean and make a difference to just one, haunted me. “Sure made a difference to that one…” became the mantra of my heart. One evening, my heart decided. I didn’t need to know all the answers, I just needed to take one step, do what I knew in my heart was needed.
- 40 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
So I sent an email to Pam Constable, the founder of Tigger House in Kabul, asking how could I make this possible. Within an hour, four volunteers in four countries had Leo’s journey to Canada sorted out and I had every detail and all the inspiration I needed. The next few days were filled with logistics, vaccinations, crate training, and lots and lots of angst on my part. Amidst it all, angels appeared. Voices and actions of support amongst colleagues, friends, and volunteers appeared. Leo made his journey from Kabul to Islamabad to Toronto and finally arrived in Muskoka on February 26. I miss seeing my little lion rule the street, but I know he is now out of harms way and is enjoying the comforts of a home, and beautiful acres of land. Operation Starfish is now complete…
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Jodi McMurray Jodi McMurray works for the Canadian Embassy in Afghanistan. Her beloved Leo now resides in Muskoka, patiently and happily awaiting her return to Canada.
Did you know that the Ontario SPCA, Muskoka Branch rescued and provided care to 696 cats and 179 dogs last year? This is a 16.6% increase over the last two years.
With intake numbers like these, the Ontario SPCA Muskoka Branch is bursting at the seams! The existing animal shelter is no longer large enough to accommodate the needs of the communities we support. With assistance from the Canada-Ontario Infrastructure Stimulus Fund under Canada’s Economic Action Plan, and from our supporters, construction of a new facility on Hwy 118 West, Bracebridge will be completed in 2011. Your gift to the capital campaign will help to improve the quality of care rescued animals receive, giving them a better chance at a new life.
Help Raise the Woof by making your donation today!
MUSKOKA ANIMAL CENTRE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
To learn more about naming opportunities, off-leash dog park and other shelter amenities or to make your donation please call (705) 645-6225 or visit our website at www.muskoka.ontariospca.ca.
So you want to buy a cottage? CottageDog’s Top Five Things to Consider Before Taking the Plunge By Vince Grittani
S
Photography by Greg McInnis For info on this MLS listed property see Chestnut Park - Huntsville, Lake of Bays
o, you’ve got a good thing going because you and Fido have managed to spend every summer at your best friend’s cottage. Then, suddenly one winter, your friend tells you he’s getting a divorce and he’s going to have to liquidate. You’re in shock, not because of the divorce (which you knew was inevitable anyway), but because your friend is going to have to sell his cottage to settle. All you can think of now is where you and Fido are going to spend your summers? While this scenario may sound a bit drastic many a cottager has had to face such things due to the legal hatchet of divorce court. However, this article is about obtaining the cottage dream, not losing it. It’s about moving from the role of guest (with dog) to owner (with cottage dog) after biting the bullet and finally buying your first cottage. - 42 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
Hopefully you’ll consider a few of the following tips, avoid the unnecessary stress that often accompanies purchasing real estate and find yourself standing at the end of your very own dock, throwing sticks for Fido in no time at all!
#1. Be adventurous… look beyond the shoreline One of the biggest mistakes potential cottage buyers make is to only explore that which is familiar, choosing a location because it’s the lake their buddy or a family member has a cottage on. Then, a year later, they end up regretting the decision because their cottage has become the lake’s favourite drop-in centre. When looking at cottage properties, take your time and consider looking at lakes in areas you never visited.
LAKE OF BAYS $2,795,000 Spectacular new build, 225' frontage, 2+ acres, 2-slip boathouse, 4,100 sq. ft, 5 bdrms, 4 baths & main flr master suite. Chef’s dream kitchen, Muskoka rm + amazing ‘outdoor kitchen’. Lwr lvl walk-out.
begin your hunt by making an activity list of the things you feel would make the ideal cottage life. Visualize a typical weekend from the moment you arrive until you leave. From the type of boating you prefer to the way you entertain; from your love or hate of chores to your desire to get away from it all. This will help narrow down the location and type of cottage you see yourself owning. Maybe it’s on an island or perhaps in a dense cottage neighborhood. LAKE OF BAYS $1,599,900 215' frontage, BIG ROCK Amazing lake at Oncedouble-slip you’veboatthought this SPARROW throughLAKE you$1,449,000 can start looking house w/1,000+ sq. ft sun deck & 4,100 sq. ft cottage w/ views, S.W. exposure & 170' frontage w/access to Trentactual physical and nofabulous two lakes spectacular wide open lake views! Dbl car garage, hot tub, locations, Severn system. Greatremember, rm w/stone fireplace, kitchen, are extensive decking, 2 stone fireplaces & spacious lwr lvl. 4 bdrms, 4 baths & 3,100+ sq. ft. 90 mins to the GTA. the same. Some are busy while others are so isolated you can hear the beavers splashing on the other side of the lake… and sometime the neighbour’s dog.
#4. Fix-it or leave it Another important consideration is your ability and desire to be a “do-it-yourselfer”. Cottages have many LAKE OF BAYS $1,195,000 Gorgeous vacation home, WOODLAND HEIGHTS, HUNTSVILLE $1,299,900 BeauLAKE VERNON BEAUTY $1,295,000 Gorgeous Timber scheduled and chores that may belake foreign 235' frontage, south exposure & spectacular views. to Frame,by 215' frontage, southern exposure, 2.77 acres of unexpected tiful 5,500location sq. ft retreatyou with 5choose bdrms, 5 baths, The willMuskoka be affected how much privacy & spectacular views. 6 bdrms, 4 baths, 3,722 sq. ft, 4+ bdrms, 3 baths, 3,800 sq. ft, smooth rock shoreline room, great room and spectacular views over Pen Lake. you as an urban homeowner. Septic tanks, uninvited&ani3 car garage. golf and miles of boating! rm, great decks, dock & hot tub. Detached garage almost 2 acres of privacy. Come discover this gem! free time Close you tohave to40spend away from Muskoka the city. Perhaps w/living quarters. mals, ice flows, excessive snow fall, fallen trees or blocked you’re a teacher or another professional with a large block culverts in the driveway are just a few of the factors that of holiday vacation. Maybe you only take mini “breakacreate chores for the weekend job jar. Often, depending tions”, three or four days at a time. Consider whether on where you’re located, getting someone in quickly to fix you’re able to get away every weekend or just once a the things isn’t possible. If home repairs aren’t for you, month. The answer to these questions will influence what purchasing a new cottage or even constructing from the is known as the “butt” factor. How long are you able to ground up may be a better way to go. LAKE OF in BAYS Spectacular southern and views in LAKE OF BAYS $929,000 travel a $949,000 car with the family a drooling dog, espe-Lovely 4 bdrm, 2 bath BC cedar LAKE OF BAYS $849,000 453' frontage, S.W. exposure,
#2. Distance matters
a desirable area. 345 ft of sandy shoreline & 11 acres to
Panabode cottage offers a private & peaceful setting with
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#5. thecleared guest work cially if you’re looking to get away every weekend? Generbuild your own personal family compound. 2 separately amazing lake views. New master suite add’n, sun deckConsidering over site development permit, for driveway & building ally speaking, the further you travel fromfurnishings. an urban, centre
You also need to think about the “social” responsibilithe more bang you’ll get for your cottage-buying buck. ties that come with cottage ownership. Are you looking to get away and be alone, or are you a constant entertainer #3. Know what you want planning on inviting guests up every weekend? This will Anxious purchasers often buy a lakeside property for influence the number and type of sleeping quarters needthe purpose of pulling the kids around on a wake board ed, not to mention cooking and dining arrangements. only to discover, after they close, that they’ve bought on isfrom it truer that everyone ends up in the kitchen RETIRE IN STYLE $875,000 Gorgeous exec home set on a LAKE OF BAYS $649,000 Turnkey Nowhere cottage just mins PENINSULA LAKE VIEWS $409,500 Beautifully maintained private 1.63 acre lot in Woodland Heights, Huntsville. 5 Dorset offers 105' frontage, 4 bdrms, wood burning fireplace end unit offers 2 bdrms, 2 baths, 1,518 sq. ft, 2 fireplaces a powerboat restricted lake! Avoid disappointment and when at the cottage. bdrms, 4 baths, 3,450 sq. ft of beautifully maintained living space, includes everything! Golf, ski hill & boating nearby!
& new kitchen, windows, wood flrs, drywall & siding. Sun room + detached garage. Just move in & enjoy!
& sun rm w/gorgeous views. This Deerhurst condo incl. appl’s & furnishings. World class golf, tennis, spa & boating!
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Specializing in Waterfront Properties BROKER CHAIRMAN’S AWARD WINNER EVERY YEAR SINCE 2005
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The important thing to remember is to try and consider all possible eventualities before signing on the dotted line. This will help you visualize the ideal property before you even begin your search. Otherwise, you may end up wasting endless weekends driving around in frustration as you search for the perfect retreat. Unlike looking in the city, desirable listings can be miles apart. A final note. If the concept of owning a cottage is totally foreign to you, one of the best ways of learning the ropes is to rent, usually in more than one location. This will help you to get a better sense of what you want while you ease yourself into the cottage lifestyle‌ hopefully without any unnecessary grief or anxiety. b
Vince Grittani Vince Grittani (aka The Weekend Guy) is a TV personality, playwright, cartoonist and illustrator, theatrical producer, writer and realtor. First a camper then a cottager, Vince is now a full-time resident of Muskoka with Iago, his fourth beloved Bearded Collie. (www.weekendguy.com)
~ Draw is May 22nd, 2011 ~
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Todd Adair Direct: (705) 787-8584 Office: (705) 645-5281
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Walking the dog Professional dog walkers need training, too By Erika Phillips
E
veryday, hundreds of dogs across Canada venture out into the unknown for their daily exercise routine. Many are handed over to hired ‘personal trainers’, otherwise known as dog walkers, for this beneficial therapy. Fortunately, most dog walkers take their job extremely seriously. Some have a knack for their charges, taking every precaution to ensure things are done right. Others may have taken the odd seminar or perhaps read a book or two on the topic, such as Turid Rugaas’ famous book, Calming Signals: What Your Dog Tells You. Sadly, however, there are many people that enter the dog walking business without any knowledge of canine behaviour. While they may take their jobs seriously, they’re lacking a few key ingredients necessary to keep Rover and Spot safe. For example, do these dog walkers know how best to treat a dog bite? Are there any specific precautions one can take to avoid conflict? How do you handle potential liabilities if accidents happen or if injuries occur. What are some of the legalities that dog walkers should be aware of, and what exactly is their responsibility?
The sad tale of Geronimo I remember a story I heard about a dog perhaps aptly name Geronimo. Geronimo was a very large dog, black and weighing in at 120lbs. He was also boisterous and had a very loud bark. Sadly, he was a very misunderstood dog, a fact which eventually led to his getting less than great reviews at local parks. Before leaving for his daily exercise routine, a choke collar was placed around his neck, a leash attached to it and an abundance of nagging and rough handling doled out. The dog walker would show and, taking his cue from the owners, copied their way of handling Geronimo and off they went on their walks. As the days - 46 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
passed, Geronimo associated the pain of being corrected or punished with his attempts at being friendly – his overtures toward other dogs were always met with a tug on the leash and a stern “No”. After a while, Geronimo figured that making friends was bad and that everyone, people and dogs alike, were basically not very nice. He associated dogs and people with pain, which he obviously didn’t like. After all, he simply wanted to say “Hi”. As Geronimo grew in size, so to did his frustrations. He was becoming increasingly wary of strangers and other dogs. One day, while walking down a busy street, a little girl broke away from her mother’s hand and ran over to see Geronimo. Sensing the tightening of the leash and the fear in the dog walker’s reaction, Geronimo, as quick as lightning, lunged and knocked the child down.
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The child’s parent phoned the police and Geronimo was placed in quarantine. Even though he didn’t bite the child, he was nevertheless deemed a dangerous dog. The parent threatened to sue the dog walker as well as the owners, and the whole sorry episode became a nightmare for everyone
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œ Dog behaviour & body language œ Legal liabilities issues œ Managing group dynamics œ Professionalism & networking œ Proper socializing for puppies & dogs œ Avoiding aggressive interactions As a member of the Back to the Pack Academy, not only will you be receiving certified education from top professionals in the field, but additional benefits such as special offers from Academy Partners and networking opportunities. Workshop I: May 28th (1-5pm) & 29th (10am-2pm) Cost: $200 Location: Downtown Toronto Instructor: Kerry Vinson (BA Psych) Information & Registration: 705-424-5971 or erika@backtothepack.ca Limited spots available, $50 deposit to secure
involved. Geronimo was ultimately considered difficult and, to avoid further problems, was euthanized by his owners.
cate of completion and will be taught by some of the lead-
An ounce of prevention
veterinarians, kennels and other professionals in the field.
Who was responsible for this tragedy? What role did the dog walker play in Geronimo’s development and eventual demise? How could this have been avoided? What can be done to ensure that something like this doesn’t happen again? If you’re a dog walker looking to expand your skill set, consider looking into an advanced training program here in Ontario through the Back to the Pack Academy. This program will be offering ongoing educational workshops towards continuing education specifically for dog walkers. Learn valuable information about canine behaviour, body language, how to avoid conflict, how to deflect potential problems, as well as how to work with and understand ‘difficult’ dogs.
- 48 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
This program will be launching soon, will offer a certifiing animal behaviourists in the country, recommended by
Ultimately, as can be seen in the sad case of Geronimo, every professional needs to be educated in his or her field. To ensure you’re the very best you can be – and to prevent such tragedies from happening again – look into gaining further professional training. It will help protect not only you, but also the dogs in your care… as well, of course, as the public in general.
b
Erika Phillips Erika Phillips, an international animal behaviour consultant currently living in the Georgian Bay area of Ontario, has been practising undisputed scientific based behaviour methods for nearly 20 years. (www.thecontroversialcanine.ca)
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, g o d d o o G By K er ry Vin so n
bad do g?
Take CottageDog’s CosmoPAWlitan-style Quiz to find out just how well behaved your pooch is
- 50 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
Photography by Scruffy Dog Photography
L
et’s face it, most of us treat our dogs like we do our kids
(sometimes even better!). But have you ever wondered just how well your dog stacks up when it comes to its behaviour? For example: Does Molly pull hard on her leash? Does Max growl at you? Does Bailey refuse to let you near his food bowl? Such behaviour could be a warning of problems down the road if they’re left unaddressed. To help you find out where your precious pooch stands in terms of behaviour – good, acceptable, bad – CottageDog asked me to devise a quiz to enable you to rate your dog’s behavior and determine any potential problem areas needing fixing. Why? Over the past decade I’ve done extensive research into canine behaviour, and am acutely aware that a dog’s behaviour is the number one reason that their owners give up on them, surrendering them to a shelter, or worse. In order to see the number of dogs this happens to be reduced dramatically, I’ve put together the following ‘scale’ to help ensure your relationship with your pet is a good one... and a long one.
The questions should be rated as follows: 1 point for “Never”; 2 points for “Sometimes”; and 3 points for “Always”: Never Sometimes Always 1
2
3
1)
Does your dog pull with maximum force on the leash when you’re walking him/her?
1
2
3
2)
When you tell your dog to stop pulling, does he/she ignore you?
1
2
3
3)
Does your dog generally ignore your requests or commands?
1
2
3
4)
If another dog approaches while walking, will your dog growl or lunge at it?
1
2
3
5)
Has your dog ever growled at you or other family members?
1
2
3
6)
When someone comes to the door, does your dog bark uncontrollably?
1
2
3
7)
If you let your dog off leash while at the cottage, will he/she run off and not respond to the recall command?
1
2
3
8)
If your dog is off leash at a dog park, will he/she come to you when called?
1
2
3
9)
When interacting with other dogs at a dog park, does your dog ever get too aggressive during play?
1
2
3
10)
Does your dog refuse to relinquish something in his or her mouth that he/she shouldn’t have?
1
2
3
11)
Will your dog display any food guarding behavior when eating?
1
2
3
12)
If your dog’s behaviour becomes aggressive, will he/she pay attention when told to stop?
Calculate your dog’s score as follows: 12 points – Awesome! Congratulations on a perfect score… and give the dog a bone! 13 to 21 points – Good, but could be better… Fido needs a little guidance, so contact a trainer for enrollment (or a refresher course) in obedience class.
22 to 30 points – Hmmm… the services of a reputable canine behaviourist are needed. 31 to 36 points – Uh-oh! Your dog’s behaviour issues need to be addressed NOW before it’s too late! - 52 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
Please be aware that I’ve tried to keep the quiz as straightforward as possible, and there’s always some degree of variability in interpreting a score on such a scale. When I assess a dog’s behaviour for a court case, it’s a formal process that can take several hours, with the focus on objectivity and the research based principles of learning theory. Although dog training isn’t rocket science, canine behaviour can be more complex than most people realize. For example, if your dog consistently ignores your basic commands (as in question #3), then attending an obedience class is most likely what you need. On the other hand, if the answer to question #12 is “Sometimes” or “Always”, then you should be looking for advanced help. Although we’ve tried to take a lighthearted approach to the subject of dog behaviour problems, as I mentioned earlier it can be a serious issue. As the owner of four large guarding breed dogs, I’m personally aware of the importance of always being on top of their behaviour. In my book, it’s never acceptable for your dog to display any type of aggression to you, members of your family… or anyone else, for that matter. As my dogs are genetically hard-wired to be territorial and bark at strangers, I have taught them to obey my command to cease their guard-
ing behaviour and accept any visitor I introduce them to. The fact that I live in the middle of a forested acreage surrounded by a secure fenced area allows me to have such a group of dogs. Over the years that I’ve been in the dog behaviour business, I’ve been surprised by the number of people I’ve come across who are unable to stop their dog from barking aggressively when someone comes to the door. If you live in a city or suburban environment, this can cause problems. Owners need to be aware that there’s a distinct difference between behaviour modification programs offered by a bonafide dog behaviourist, and obedience training. For example, dogs that display aggression (the number one serious dog behaviour problem) have often done quite well in an obedience class setting. With a wealth of (often conflicting) advice on the Internet about dog behaviour, a good rule of thumb is to avoid trainers or behaviourists who propose a punishment based methodology. Ample research into learning theory indicates that positive reinforcement based training and/or behaviour modification offers a higher degree of success. If you’re not sure who to contact for help, ask your veterinarian for advice. b
Kerry Vinson Kerry Vinson (B.A. Psych) writes on dog behaviour issues for veterinary publications and pet magazines in Canada, and has been designated an Expert Witness in the area of canine aggression, testifying in several high profile court cases in Ontario. He has appeared nationally on Canada AM, CBC’s Doczone, The Outdoor Life Network, and Discovery Channel, and lectures at Colleges in Southern Ontario. He lives in the Northumberland Hills east of Toronto with his four dogs (three German Shepherds and a Caucasian Ovcharka) and can be contacted through Animal Behaviour Consultants at (905)352-3353. CottageDog - Spring 2011 - 53 -
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There’s nothing like pre-vacation anticipation, particularly the Muskoka variety. The zen-like state that awaits, trading concrete for Canadian Shield and parks for wilderness. Your gear would be loaded already if it weren’t for those puppy dog eyes following your every move, eyes you watch with guilt, knowing they are bound for something less. The simplest thing would just be to load Fido in the car and make sure your four legged family member doesn’t miss any family time. Lots of accommodations label themselves pet friendly, but just because they welcome your dog doesn’t mean your dog will feel welcome. A barking pet is particularly disruptive in a hotel, the space is very limited for big dogs and potty breaks may entail cramped elevator rides. The Cottages at The Diamond ‘In The Ruff’ offer the royal treatment for your active pooch. The three bedroom Normerica post and beam cottages spaciously 705.728.3569 Barrie | 416.966.3877 Toronto inquiries@expressionscustompublications.com www.expressionscustompublications.com accommodate all. Appointed in an uncluttered modern take on Muskoka, the fully furnished vacation homes afford plenty of space for dogs to maneuver without stepping on everyone’s toes. Your pups can keep you company on the deck as you barbecue or they can frolic in the adjacent grassland where it’s easy to keep an eye out. The waterfront cottages are an idyllic playground where dogs are welcome to swim and hang 10 at the beach with the rest of the family. The shared ownership cottage development of just 15 homes creates a quiet community nestled between Nutt Lake and The Diamond ‘In The Ruff’ golf course and is surrounded by woods and groomed hiking trails. Pulling into the driveway of the golf course is like stepping into the unfolding brushstrokes of a Monet canvas. Gardens ripe with colour garnish impeccably manicured grounds; its nine fairways sculpted from a gentle terrain of sky bound pines. A Quebec inspired red roof tops a cozy clubhouse conducive to relaxed conversations and the laughter of a life less serious. The atmosphere everywhere is one of welcoming. “This is perfect,” says Kathy Lockwood, who has been a happy cottage owner along with Claire Forster for three years. “It’s quiet and there are activities available for those who want to partake. When I go on holidays I want to decompress, read and play golf. I can’t complain about the luxury I’ve got.” The challenging yet unintimidating layout of the golf course is as easy to walk as it is on the eyes. Careful consideration has been given to make your round as enjoyable as possible. An all natural garlic spray is used on the course to help control the bugs and maximize comfort. Tee times are spaced 10 minutes apart and
Photography by Paul Bennett Photography
Fourseasons
Aditorial
starters will hold groups back to ensure enough of a gap between groups for a steady but unhurried pace.
“When you’re buying a fractional it doesn’t come with all of the maintenance and upkeep of full cottage
In the winter, the golf course turns into a snow sport playground with groomed cross country ski and snowshoe trails. Nutt Lake is transformed into an ice rink for hockey, a relaxing skate or a friendly game of curling. Afterwards, warm up in the cottage in front of the fireplace or enjoy the outdoor fire pit. Your dog is welcome to set the pace on the paths, whether they’re snow covered or more suited to running, cycling or hiking. The property’s central location in Muskoka means you’re only a short drive to a variety of attractions, boutique shopping and eateries to satiate the foodies.
ownership and the capital investment is less,” says Gail
Choosing The Cottages at The Diamond ‘In The Ruff’ for your vacation lifestyle will net you five splendid weeks of Muskoka time with two fixed summer weeks, a tough to find offering in the fractional cottage market. The turnkey nature of shared ownership investment means you arrive with your clothes, toys and food to spend quality time creating memories that matter, not doing chores.
The Cottages at The Diamond ‘In The Ruff’ is pet practi-
Young, a cottage owner with her husband John. “After six months of looking into fractional cottage ownership, we chose Diamond for the single cottage design, the quality of the product itself, the central location in Muskoka and the two fixed weeks compared to one week offered by other properties…The reason we bought here is that there was nothing we were disappointed by.” And your furry friends won’t be disappointed because they’ll be along for the fun. More than just pet friendly, cal. You’ll be comfortable bringing your dog, big or small, and your pet will love to be an integral part of the variety of activities at this amazing four season resort community. Call 1-877-643-3343 today and book your tour—dogs welcome!
Vet’s Corner
Xylitol
Sweet as Chocolate and Much More Toxic
Photography by Scruffy Dog Photography
By Dr. Jason McLeod, DVM Dr. Jason McLeod is a companion animal veterinarian 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 he is servant to. His house includes 4 cats that dictate when his family rises in the morning, which furniture they are allowed to relax on and when meal times will be. His house literally vibrates with over 250 lbs of jovial canine and feline royalty. Please see algonquinanimalhospital.org or bracebridgeanimalhospital.org for more information.
X
ylitol is an artificial sweetener that is gaining in popularity for use in many products such as candy, chewing gum, oral hygiene products including toothpaste and even in low carbohydrate foods. It is also being used as a sugar substitute in home baking. Unfortunately, there is great concern with xylitol when consumed by dogs. It is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and triggers an increase in the release of insulin from the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone whose primary duty is to aid in transporting sugar from the bloodstream into various tissues and organs that either require it for - 60 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
energy production or for storage and use at a later time. This rapid increase in insulin release from the pancreas may lead to an equally rapid decrease in blood sugar, a condition known as hypoglycemia. If blood sugar levels drop too low, weakness and lethargy ensue. If a dangerously low hypoglycemia occurs, then a dog may exhibit vomiting and begin to seizure, convulse and possibly even fall into a coma or die. Xylitol is extremely toxic. In fact, it is 100 times more toxic than chocolate consumption to a dog (little is known of the effects on cats). As little as one or two pieces of
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chewing gum can cause serious toxicity in a 20 lb dog. Additionally, higher volumes ingested may have serious liver effects (hepatotoxicity) and these effects are usually not seen for over 24 hours. A small number of dogs may not go through a noticeable hypoglycemia but may still have considerable liver damage, thus it is extremely important to seek medical attention if a canine consumes xylitol.
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Clinical signs and rapid changes
Sales Representative www.caroltaplin.com
All-Stars Realty Inc., BROKERAGE® Independently Owned and Operated
Due to the rapid onset of toxicity, testing for xylitol in the blood is not commonly utilized. It helps if owners know that a possible ingestion of a xylitol-containing product occurred, although not all owners may be aware. Often the clinical signs and rapid changes seen in a pet are what tip a veterinarian to the presumptive diagnosis. There is no antidote or specific therapy for xylitol toxicity. Treatment of affected individuals is through emergency care including intravenous fluids and administration of glucose – a sugar that is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and helps normalize blood sugar levels. Advanced cases may require further treatment to combat seizures or other side effects. The drastic increase in the number of products containing xylitol has steadily risen in the last few years. This has resulted in a sharp increase in cases of toxicity and hypoglycemia seen by veterinarians and reported to toxicology centres. Raising awareness to the considerable threat of this apparently innocuous sugar substitute should help owners to prevent our precious companions from being adversely affected. Just remember, if you have any suspicions, seek veterinary medical attention immediately as time is not on our side in dealing with xylitol toxicity. b
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SERVICES INCLUDE Medicine • Surgery • Laser Surgery • Wellness/Early Detection Screening Therapy Laser & Rehabilitation • Nutrition Advice & Counseling Digital Radiology (X-RAYS) • Dentistry & Dental X-Rays NEW PATIENTS WELCOME
TWO GREAT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!
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Paw~zzled ttani
Written & illustrated by Vince Gri
ACROSS 1
Essentials’ shop
5
Aromatically offensive nuisance
7
Legal lifesaver
9
Company
11
Undersized cabin
12
“J” powered
13
Speak, Spot! Speak!
15
Good with fish or Fido’s identifier
17
Friday night challenge
19
Boat access
20
Ideal direction
21
Bearing diagram
22
Canine freeloaders
24
Epidermal irritator
25
Vessel port
26
Cinematic teaser or cottager’s hauler
28
Considered an illegal throne room now
30
How dogs dry
34
Kids car mantra
DOWN 2
Type of cottage boundary
16
Scavenger recreational area
3
Sculling device
18
Straw Hat Players
4
Doggie do-do human’s do
23
Campfire fare
5
Fine brush
27
Athletic meet…doggie style
6
Autumn lock down ritual
29
Reflective of market value
7
Go and get
32
Goldilocks’ nemesis
8
Cottage pier
33
Sleep but never drive on it
10
Treat it well or it may come back up to haunt you
31
Never serve in July like the English
13
Aquatic apparel
35
Ozone’s revenge
14
Alvin was a member
- 62 - CottageDog - Spring 2011
Stay tuned for the next issue for all the answers
100
CAGE FREE YEAR-ROUND DOG CAMP
Frog Hunting!
Chippy Chasing!
Dragonfly Racing!
Spa baths Recommended! GreatHound PetBus Shuttle: Toronto/GTA/Muskoka 705-789-9181 (Huntsville) www.happytails.on.ca
DOG PARKS FOR EVERY SIZE, AGE AND NEED!