Utah pet friendly

Is your local shelter participating in Just One Day, Monday, June 11, 2012, a day of No Kill across the nation? More info…

http://www.nathanwinograd.com/?p=8290

Speaking of No Kill shelters…

Visiting Best Friends…

You know you want to visit Best Friends. It’s a gorgeous scenic place and wonderful for animal lovers. The Red Rocks are what I remember most fondly as well as the general ambience. Happy dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, horses, burros and all kinds of critters live here. And now, a few of the former V dogs do, too. Happy at home in this 33,000 acre sanctuary, the largest no-kill in the USA. Best times to visit are Fall and Spring… In between seasons, before winter and summer. It gets very hot in summer and cold in winter.  Be sure to take a tour of the property to get the lay of the land and eat at least one yummy healthy organic meal… filled with camaderie.

Kanab is a very small town about an hour away from St. George in southern Utah. St. George, Cedar City, Cedar Breaks, Bryce Canyon, Lake Powell and the Grand Canyon North Rim are nearby.

http://www.kanabguide.com/

Kanab is located in the Golden Circle of southern Utah, which offers a breathtaking assortment of outdoor adventures for people who like to hike, bike, or just tour the open roads taking in the scenery.  It’s called the Golden Circle because it is close to Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the north rim of the Grand Canyon.  The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument with its miles and miles of unadulterated, varied landscape is like no place else on earth.  It has such dramatic scenery; there are places that you’ll swear you’re on the moon.  But don’t fret; the refreshing plunge of Lake Powell, which reminds many people of an undisclosed island in the Mediterranean, is just a few miles away.  The above describes the surrounding area of Kanab, let’s talk about Kanab itself.  Besides being home to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, it’s got vast expanses of untouched BLM land just waiting to be explored.  It is also home to Kanab Creek, where you can also let your dog cool off before exploring one of the hundreds of trails in and around the grounds of Best Friends.  If you’re looking to reconnect with the natural world, this is the place to be.

Best Friends Animal Society

5001 Angel Canyon Road  Kanab, UT 84741
(435) 644-2001

While you are touring or volunteering at the sanctuary, it is important that your pet remain contained in a safe and comfortable place. BF does not offer any kind of “day care” for visiting pets. So if you want to bring a pet, please make your own arrangements. (Your car is not an option during the warm season.) The one exception is for people who are visiting the sanctuary for the purpose of adopting a pet. In this case, they strongly encourage you to bring other pets with you to the adoption area (only), in order to introduce your pets before finalizing an adoption. Many of the motels in Kanab will allow pets, as long as they are supervised. Additionally, there is a pet store in town, Critter Corner, that sells premium food and supplies.

http://www.bestfriends.org/atthesanctuary/angelcanyon/visitorfaq.cfm

http://www.bestfriends.org/atthesanctuary/angelcanyon/visitorfaq.cfm#lodgingkanab

According to my friend on Facebook Catherine who visited last year:

“It was wonderful and I highly recommend it – one of my favorite vacations ever. If you go, find a place to stay that allows dogs and Best Friends will let you take a dog on a sleepover one night. You can take them everywhere with you, out to dinner, for socializing.”  (not sure if that is only for folks who want to adopt a dog, so call and make sure).

http://www.xbarhlodge.com/

Mr. Cherry Garcia stayed with his adopted family at the XbarH Lodge, while they got to know one another before his adoption, near to Best Friends…  no weight, size nor breed restrictions…no extra fee… all of the rooms are pet friendly… and according to Cherry, “It’s a beautiful place, great hiking, and JC, Michele, and Jack are some of the nicest people on earth!!! They will even watch your animal while you voluteer at BF!!! All for no extra charge!!!”

http://www.xbarhlodge.com/petguests2.html

XbarH Lodge

708 Red Rock Dr.

Orderville UT  84758

435-648-2750

Other pet friendly lodging options:

• The Avoca House The Avoca House, owned and operated by Grandma Bonnie, is a premier Bed & Breakfast located in Kanab, Utah. Why stay in a hotel or motel when visiting Southern Utah’s Little Hollywood? The Avoca House, built in 1912, quaintly nestled perfectly between Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park and the Grand Canyon North Rim.  The  Avoca House Inn provides its visitors a breathtaking ‘base camp’ setting, perfect for avid hiker and casual sightseer. (435) 644-3172

• Purple Sage B&B The Purple Sage Inn was built in 1884 for Mormon pioneer William Derby Johnson, Jr., and his four wives. The house was built in two stages. The first part was a two-story part on the front followed by a one-story addition. (877) 644.5377

RV Parks

• Hitchin’ Post RV Park (435) 644-2142

• Kanab RV Corral (435) 644-5330

• Crazy Horse Camp Park (435) 644-2782

• Wahweap RV Park & Camping, (928) 645-2433

• Mt Carmel Trailer Park (435) 648-2323

Camping

• Ponderosa Campground (435) 644-2672
7 miles from Best Friends, primitive camping, $5/night.

• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park 1-800-322-3770
12 miles from Best Friends, amenities, reservations recommended.

• Wahweap RV Park & Camping, (928) 645-2433

• Jacob Lake Campground, (928) 643-7395

 Cedar Breaks & Bryce Canyon
Sisters in geology, colors and appearance… the “Breaks” and Bryce Canyon are within an easy drive of Zion National Park. Both the Cedar Breaks and Bryce Canyon regions offer fantastic overlooks and hiking and horseback riding in season. The two parks are famous for the pastel-colored ridges and pinnacles that extend like ruined castles out from steep cliffs. Clouds often drift in and about the rock towers giving one a sense of forgetfulness in the multi-hued amphitheaters. Summers are cool, while in winter the parks often have snow.

Ruby’s Inn, Bryce Canyon

http://www.nationalparkreservations.com/bryce_rubys_inn.php

no extra charge for pets, most rooms allow pets

Bryce Cyn Resort

http://www.nationalparkreservations.com/bryce_resort.php

$10 Fee per night per pet

Victorian Inn

190 North 300 West
Kanab, UT 84741
1-800-997-5148

Victorian Inn is an ideal place while touring southern Utah if you are tired of hotel chains. As Kanabs only Boutique style hotel, the Victorian Inn features all of the amenities of a large hotel chain, delivered in a more intimate setting. This beautiful hotel is emerging from a full renovation which began in early 2010 and recently ended 2011. The hotel now boasts well appointed luxurious rooms, free of charge high speed internet, a flat screen TV in every room and full hot breakfast every morning. You can also take advantage of free parking, business center, and fitness room.

Best Western

http://book.bestwestern.com/bestwestern/US/UT/Kanab-hotels/BEST-WESTERN-Red-Hills/Hotel-Overview.do?propertyCode=45005

Pet Policy: Pets allowed based on the availability of pet friendly rooms. Up to 2 dogs per room with a 80 pound weight limit. Additional pet types (cats, birds, etc) may be accepted at the hotel’s discretion. Pet rate is $10.00 per day with a $100 per week maximum.

125 W Center Street, Kanab, Utah, 84741-3417, US

Phone: 435/644-2675

Holiday Inn

1-800-997-5149

$20 pet fee per night, limited amt of pet rooms

http://www.hiexpress.com/hotels/us/en/kanab/knbut/hoteldetail

Treasure Trail motel

http://www.treasuretrailkanab.com/

Best Friends Visitors Welcome

Treasure Trail Motel is
Canine & Feline Friendly

Offers discounts for Best Friends Visitors and Volunteers. Pet rooms are limited so please inquire online or at the front desk. Also ask about the pet yard and pet-friendly golf course.

Rodeway Inn Kanab

70 S. 200 West
Kanab, UT 84741
1-800-230-4134

The hotel is located in downtown Kanab, close to shopping and the area’s restaurants. Kanab is the jumping off point for southern Utah’s national parks, state parks and regional attractions. The hotel features comfortable rooms with free high-speed internet and cable TVs. Micro-Fridges are available and a continental breakfast is served daily. Pet accommodation: 6.00/night, per pet. Limit of 100lbs. and under. The pet must be crated or removed if the guest wants maid service.

Comfort Inn Kanab

815 East Highway 89
Kanab, UT 84741
Property is centrally located to Best Friends Animal Society, Bryce Canyon National Park, Brian Head Ski Resort, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Grand Canyon North Rim, Grand Staircase Escalate Visitor Center, Lake Powell and Zion National Park. Area activities include guided ATV tours and rentals, Horseback Riding and hiking trails. Pet accommodation: 10.00/night per pet. Pet Limit: max 2 pets per room, up to 75 pounds. Pets allowed in designated rooms only.

Shilo Inns Kanab

296 W 100 North
Kanab, UT 84741

The Shilo Inn Suites in Kanab is located within an easy drive to six national parks and monuments, which harbor some of the most beautiful canyons and landscape. Each guest room is equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, ironing unit, hair dryer, and in-room movies and entertainment. . Free amenities include continental breakfast, high speed internet access, fresh coffee, free newspaper, free unlimited local and domestic long distance calls and airport shuttle. Facilities include a guest laundry and an outdoor heated pool *seasonal* and spa. Shilo Inns is 100 percent smoke free.

Dog friendly hiking

Dogs are welcome on the Negro Bill Canyon Trail in the Colorado River National Recreation Area that leads to the sixth longest stone arch in the United States.

Utah State Parks
1594 W North Temple
Salt Lake City, Utah 84116
(801) 538-7220
parkcomment@utah.gov

Zion National Park
“The brightest star next to the seat of God” aptly designates this park, one of the grandfathers of the national park system. Zion Canyon, up to 2,400 feet deep in places, cuts its way through the multi-color sheered cliffs and monolithic sandstone formations that define the region. Zion’s beauty is accessible the entire year with easy interstate access from Salt Lake City, Las Vegas (about 3-4 hours away), and the surrounding areas. A hiker’s and photographer’s paradise, Zion National Park is the cornerstone of the Zion – Bryce Canyon – Grand Canyon triangle.

At Zion, leashed pets are permitted on the Pa’rus Trail. Pets should not be left unattended in campgrounds. Essentially, this means that if you take your pet into the parks they can be with you in the campgrounds and inside your vehicle, and you can walk them in parking areas, but that’s about it.

Although pets are not permitted on practically any of the trails or in the backcountry in Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks, those traveling with their dogs can hike with them over miles of trails administered by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, adjacent to both national parks. Pets are also welcome, even on trails, in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (administered by the BLM) and in Utah’s state parks.

http://www.frommers.com/destinations/brycecanyonnationalpark/1561028783.html#ixzz1x4eLE6QF

Pets should never be left in closed vehicles, where temperatures can soar to over 120°F (49°C) in minutes, resulting in brain damage or death, and there is no punishment too severe for the human who subjects a dog or cat to that torture. Outside Bryce Canyon National Park, Doggy Day Camp (tel. 435/690-9616) operates a boarding kennel; and pet boarding is available near Zion, in the community of Rockville, at Doggy Dude Ranch (tel. 435/772-3105; www.doggyduderanch.com).

Read more: http://www.frommers.com/destinations/brycecanyonnationalpark/1561028783.html#ixzz1x4dfzzGU

Should you wish to contact Zion National Park, here are a couple of phone numbers:

Zion National Park Rangers – (435) 772-3256
Zion Natural History Association – (435) 772-3264

Best Western Zion Park Inn

1215 Zion Park Blvd. • Springdale, UT 84767
Phone. (435) 772-3200 Toll Free. (800) 934-7275

http://www.zionparkinn.com/

Lake Powell area

A couple of hours away from Kanab / Best Friends, 139 miles northeast of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon lies the city of Page, Arizona – home to the Glen Canyon Dam. Lake Powell is the second largest man-made reservoir in the country.

With over 1,800 miles of coastline, and 186 miles long, Lake Powell is a sightseer’s paradise. Whether by boat, on foot, or by vehicle the park offers access to remote, primordial areas of the Southwest most people cannot even imagine exist. Vistas are stunning, with Lake Powell’s blue-green color starkly contrasting the red-orange hues of the surrounding Canyonlands.

http://www.qualityinn.com/hotel-page-arizona-AZ214

General Pet Policy: All Pets must be kept on a leash at all times when in public. Pets must never be left unattended. Guest must clean up after their own pets.

Houseboat Pet Policy: $10.00 per pet, per day fee charged and must be paid at time of boat pick-up. There is no limit as to how many pets. Pets are not allowed on the 75′ Odyssey, 75′ Excursion, 62 journey.

Powerboat Pet Policy: Pets are allowed on the 19′ Powerboats with no fee. Pets are allowed on the 36′ Weekender. Pets are not allowed on the 20′ Ski Boats or 23′ Centurians.

Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in Standard Rooms only at Lake Powell Resort. A $20.00 non-refundable deposit per pet per night is required.

Pet Policy: The Defiance House Lodge is pet friendly with all room types allowing pets. There is a $10.00 pet fee per pet per night. Owners need to be aware that they are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Pets are not to be left unattended. There are 4 rooms that are designated as ‘Pet Free’ for guests who have allergies.

http://www.lakepowell.com/policies.aspx

Grand Canyon North Rim
Only about a 2-hour drive away, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon offers more world-class views for all to enjoy. Be sure to take your camera. Due to its high elevation, the Grand Canyon North Rim is only accessible after the winter snows have melted around May, and it closes again after the snow flies in the late fall.

 

Blog Hop time…  thanks to Life with Dogs,Two Little Cavaliers and Confessions of the Plume…  grab the blog hop code…

Happy Vicktory dog day

On April 25th, 2007, police served a warrant in Surry, Va. The day before, Michael Vick’s cousin, Davon Boddie, was arrested on drug charges and listed the house as his address. The police and animal-control officers found 66 dogs and what appeared to be a dog-training complex of dark-painted buildings in the woods just behind the house owned by M. Vick. Police obtained another warrant and seized the dogs.

This photo is of the dogs rescue from the property. Thankfully, there were people who began the fight for the V Dogs lives. And thus began the journey for a collective group of dogs who would change the perception people had of pit bulls and fighting dogs and the laws that would one day open doors for countless dogs worldwide.

It all started on this day in 2007.

Happy 5th year anniversary to all of the Vicktory dogs, their pet guardians, foster parents and trainers, all of the folks who have loved them and been with them every step of their amazing journeys… BadRap, Best Friends, Our Pack, Monterey SPCA and others, the dogs could not have made it without ALL OF YOU.

http://vdoglittleengineblog.blogspot.ca/2012/04/fifth-anniversary-week.html

If you have not read the book about these dogs, it is time to honor the dogs by getting a copy of The Lost Dogs by Jim Gorant and reading it or giving it as a gift to your local shelter, a friend or loved one. This book will warm your heart and uplift your spirit. Yes, there are a few rough paragraphs to get through. But in the end, the story is one of tremendous courage, triumph and spirit. Against all odds, despite PETA and the Humane Society and others insistence that the dogs be euthanized, most of the dogs have not only survived but are thriving in homes with other dogs, cats, children and continue to inspire others. Eight of the dogs have become therapy dogs, visiting sick people and reading with children, have won awards and given the key to the city. A few of the dogs have passed onto the Rainbow Bridge. Some of the pet guardians do speaking engagements and events. And a few have rescued other pit bulls who needed love and homes, too.

For Audie, Cherry, Danimal, Ernie, Frodo, Georgia, Ginger, Grace, Halle, Hector, Iggy, Jasmine, Jhumpa, Jonny J, Leo, Little Red, Mel, Oscar, Red, Squeaker, Stella, Teddles, Uba, Ziggy  and all of the other brave dogs…

Oscar just passed his CGC. He is an official Canine Good Citizen and is now eligible for adoption (has a pending home).

http://vickdogsblog.blogspot.ca/2012/04/35-years.html

Ginger having her cake and eating her Happy cake, too…

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=3907957623896

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.221902831154547.66494.131735993504565&type=3

 

What have you learned from these survivors of cruelty? How has this landmark case influenced your views on evaluating victims of cruelty? What have these dogs taught you about the importance of “seeing the dog, not the story?

http://ifdogscouldtalk.tumblr.com/post/19764825743/see-the-dog-not-the-story-this-is-excellent)

Blog Hop time…  thanks to Life with Dogs,Two Little Cavaliers and Confessions of the Plume…  grab the blog hop code…

tell Gov. Brown NO to Hayden repeal

Legislators to determine the fate of California’s pets on April 11. Please call today!

Pets in California animal shelters are dangerously close to being cast back into the dark ages. Right now, the Hayden Bill (SB 1785), a groundbreaking law passed in 1998 to protect shelter animals and give them more chances to find homes, is in danger of being partially repealed by Governor Jerry Brown.

The Assembly Budget Subcommittee has already rejected Governor Brown’s proposed repeal of the Hayden Bill.  Now, the fate of thousands of animals across the state is in the hands of the Senate Budget Subcommittee, who will hold their own hearing on Wednesday, April 11. You can help by contacting the committee members today (calls are most effective), and asking them not to repeal any parts of the Hayden Bill.

Senator Joe Simitian, Chair: (916) 651-4011
Senator Jean Fuller: (916) 651-4018
Senator Alan Lowenthal: (916) 651-4027

http://blogs.bestfriends.org/index.php/2012/02/06/gov-jerry-browns-budget-seeks-to-tighten-noose-around-neck-of-shelter-animals/

local paper froths at pit bulls

my major pet peeves with pit bulls are:

1. they are bed hogs. has anyone ever written instructions on how to untangle yourself and get out of bed while a pit bull is snuggling on your belly or how to turn over while your dog is cuddling close into you?

2. they slobber all over you… I did not need that french kiss this morning nor the kisses all over my hands, legs and feet. Cici thinks if she kisses me enough I will get up but see the previous pet peeve for why that is not easy for me.

3. they want to kiss and say hello (wag wag wag) to everyone in the neighborhood.

dangerous dogs attacking…waa waa waa… BOL

It just gets tiresome, the same old blah blah blah in the news…

Pit bulls are once again blamed for people’s ignorance, fear and hysteria… the article is pretty balanced but most people won’t read anything but the scary headline…

http://www.montereyherald.com/news/ci_20064947/pit-bull-attacks-common-animal-control-officers-say

Pit bull attacks common, animal control officers say

Three incidents in one day in Salinas…

oh my god… better run for the hills…

my response:

pit bull bans are being repealed across the USA and world…

http://celiasue.com/2012/02/23/pit-bull-bans-going-bye-bye/

No more pit bull discrimination in Ohio…

Ohio Governor John Kasich (R) signed on the dotted line, making Ohio House Bill 14an official law. HB 14 is a piece of legislation that will create a new and more refined system for defining a dog as potentially dangerous, removing the American Pit Bull Terrier and other “Bully breeds” from the list of automatically “vicious” dogs.

http://dogtime.com/pit-bull-discrimination-ends-in-ohio.html

Michigan and Ontario Canada are in the works, too…

http://www.clickondetroit.com/community/Pit-bulls-removed-from-Mount-Clemens-dangerous-animal-ordinance/-/2207168/8864914/-/ym11q8/-/index.html

Millions of innocent dogs are abused, banned and killed every year because of the way they look, and the heinous discrimination against them.   And the headline in your article feeds into the hysteria, stereotypes and fear. The cruelty visited upon these dogs is caused by irresponsible owners, dog fighters, and unfair stereotypes.

I live in Seaside, am a freelance writer/editor and personally rescued a Dalmatian/pit bull mix a few years ago. For the most part, my neighbors and people love her. But a few strangers fear her for NO reason. She is NOT aggressive and has been attacked by other dogs on several occasions.  Her typical response is to lie down on her back and show her belly (a sign of submission).Yet at times people have the nerve to come up to me and tell me that she is scary. Really?

One time in Border’s, one lady was afraid of my dog (for no reason, we were just walking around the store) and other people started reacting. The fear just spread throughout the store. Suddenly, this man brought his gorgeous 5-year-old blonde haired, blue eyed daughter over and let her pet Cici. Cici licked the girl’s face and wagged her tail. The whole scene changed instantly. I had tears in my eyes I was so grateful and thankful for this angel. Cici loves kids and is so gentle with them. Everyone could see that immediately and the potentially scary situation ended.

Many people have never met a pit bull and could not pick one out of a lineup such as this…

http://www.pickthepit.com/

Pit bulls were bred to be FRIENDLY to people and known as Nanny Dogs for 150 years… and pit bull is not a breed but a bunch of breeds…

No other dogs exemplify the BEST of the breeds known as pit bulls as the former Michael Vick dogs… Eight of these dogs, who were portrayed as the meanest, most vicious dogs of all time, have become therapy dogs. Many have been adopted into loving homes and are living with other dogs, cats, and children. Three of them in Monterey county (one died).

http://www.spcamc.org/rescued-dogs.htm

Some of the tale was told in the Lost Dogs book by Jim Gorant. And thousands of people follow the dogs and their owners daily trials and tribulations on Facebook.

Several of the dogs have made appearances on national TV (Rachael Ray, for one) but mostly the news is filled with hate and fear perpetrated against innocent dogs.

When do news reports tell about how the dogs have been treated by cruel, irresponsible and abusive humans? There is a known high correlation by law enforcement that people that abuse animals also abuse people including children. Yet animal abusers often receive slaps on the wrist instead of jail time and significant fines.

Whenever I read about any of the former Vick dogs what they went through, and I personally met the three dogs here in Monterey, it makes me ill.

For the first few months Cherry slept with his eyes open, a lot of the Vicktory dogs were shut down and trembled with fear/terror, could not eat properly, were terrified of strangers and new situations, Mel cannot bark to this day and many of the dogs were extremely skittish and wanted to find some place to hide. Handsome Dan used to pace and walk in circles because he was so terrified of the world. Even trying to get him to go on a walk would send him running. Oscar was absolutely terrified of people when he first came to Best Friends Sanctuary in 2008 (Note: 22 of the 51 dogs seized from Bad Newz Kennels went to Best Friends, 12 others went to BadRap, three to Monterey SPCA, 3 to Our Pack in SLO and the rest of the dogs were dispersed around the country). When he first showed up at Best Friends from the estate of Michael Vick, Cherry was shut down emotionally, especially when it came to being around people. For Cherry, meeting new people is still not always easy.

http://network.bestfriends.org/groups/pitbullspecialfeature/news/archive/2011/01/31/pittie-city-meet-some-of-the-rescued-dogs-at-best-friends.aspx

Handsome Dan

pit bull owners…

America’s bark off

http://vimeo.com/36256114

Please make a difference and tell THE WHOLE STORY.

Thank you.

hurray BAMBA…bring your pit bull to a walk in Salinas, this Sunday from 10:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. It starts at Star Market on Main Street and will end at the National Steinbeck Center.

http://www.kionrightnow.com/story/17051829/pit-bull-owners-organize-rally-to-defend-breed

Pit bull defenders say the breed is no more dangerous than any other big dog and they want to dispel myths construed by police and the media with their Sunday march.

http://www.ksbw.com/news/central-california/salinas/Pit-bulls-to-march-through-Salinas-on-Sunday/-/5738906/9208958/-/tpmxuc/-/index.html

visit facebook.com/SundaySociaBull

https://www.facebook.com/events/120921821369057/

 

some of this info is correct,some not, the Michael Vick dogs, eight are therapy dogs and many are living in homes… more than 50% ….

http://boldforbullies.tumblr.com/

choose a shelter dog

Are Mutts Smarter Than Purebred Dogs?
How to Choose Your New Best Friend from an Animal Shelter

Among the biggest victims of the economic recession are the once beloved family pets surrendered to shelters as their owners deal with extended joblessness. The U.S. Humane Society estimates 6 to 8 million dogs and cats enter shelters each year – and 3 to 4 million are euthanized.

“We don’t have firm numbers but we know anecdotally that the communities that have been hardest hit by the economic downturn are seeing that reflected in their shelter intake numbers,” says Inga Fricke, director of sheltering issues for the U.S. Humane Society.

“And, unfortunately, while the majority of the public is in favor of adopting pets from shelters, very few – usually about 20 percent – actually do. That has recently gone up slightly to the mid-20s.”

Fricke and retired police officer Irvin Cannon, a confirmed dog lover whose new book, For the Love of Dog Tales (www.FortheLoveofDogTales.com), gives voice to man’s best friend, hope people getting back on their feet will consider adopting a shelter dog.

Cannon was a poor kid growing up in Detroit when his family took in a stray dog. It surprised young Irvin that his father would be willing to share the family’s meager groceries with a dog, but he soon discovered the return on their investment was enormous.

“You won’t find a better companion, whether you bring home a mystery mixed-breed or a purebred Labrador,” he says. “Everyone thinks mutts are smarter and generally healthier, but really, it all depends on their mix of breeds and which breed strain is dominant.”

Border collies and Rottweilers are two of the smartest breeds, Cannon says. But they tend to have other traits, too, which are just as important to consider when choosing what dog best suits your lifestyle. Remember – dogs are as individual as people. A dog’s breed, or breed mix, is no guarantee that it will have certain traits.

That said, border collies tend to need lots of room to run and lots of attention – they’re high-maintenance, Cannon says. If you can’t spend a lot of active time with them, they’ll be unhappy and you’ll have problems.

Rottweilers are fast learners and lovable family animals, but they also tend to have bold personalities associated with pack leaders. If you are not an experienced dog owner, or if you have young or shy children, you might want to consider a different breed.

Dominant dogs that are allowed to bully their family members, dogs that are kept on a chain, dogs that are not neutered, and dogs that are allowed to run loose can become problem dogs that may bite.

Here are some other tidbits regarding breeds:

• Among other dog breeds known for intelligence: Shetland sheepdogs, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, poodles, Australian cattle dogs, Papillons and Doberman pinschers.

• Bulldogs, beagles and Basset hounds all start with ‘B’ but get much lower grades for smarts.

• Some breeds have tendencies toward problems such as deafness, blindness or hip dysplasia, remember, these are genetic issues that are inherited. So if you’re mixed-breed includes some German shepherd, it may also have hip dysplasia (a problem with the joint’s bone structure).

• If you’re in the market for a purebred dog, you have a 25 percent chance of finding one – although maybe not the breed you want – at a shelter. If your heart is set on a specific breed, check your area for a rescue group specializing in that breed.

 Be aware of designer dogs and so-called perfect dog breeds and their health issues… 

 http://www.zoenature.org/2012/02/the-perfect-dog/

Right now, the entire Pekingese breed is in crisis. It is so plagued by health issues and inbreeding that many people say the breed may not even survive. The biggest issue is Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome – the upper airway problem that plagues short-nosed, flat-faced dog breeds…

…And speaking about King Charles spaniels, who are also bred with skulls that are too small for their brains, veterinary neurologist Clare Rusbridge said:

“The cavalier’s brain is like a size ten foot that has been shoved into a size six shoe; it doesn’t fit. It is described in humans as one of the most painful conditions you can have, a piston-type headache. Even a light touch – a collar, for example – can induce discomfort.

“If you took a stick and beat a dog to create that pain, you’d be prosecuted. But there’s nothing to stop you breeding a dog with it.”

Is this truly our idea of the perfect dog – the best in show? Is this how we want to judge and recognize the best characteristics for our best friends?

Isn’t it time for people who love pets and care about animals to rise up and bring this sham to an end?

The only thing that’s pure in the “purebred” industry is the lifetime of pure suffering that’s being inflicted on dogs by this morally bankrupt industry.

Adopt a shelter pet… just like your favorite celebrities…

“According to People Pets, (Jennifer)  Aniston confirmed to GQ magazine that she and boyfriend, Justin Theroux, recently adopted a Pit bull/boxer mix named Sophie. Several sources reveal that the adoption took place from the Utah-based animal rescue, Best Friends.”
http://truthaboutpitbulls.blogspot.com/2012/02/jennifer-aniston-adopts-pit-bull-mix.html

http://theshelterpetproject.org/

 

 

If you enjoyed this post, we’d be very grateful if you’d help get the woof out by emailing it to a friend, or sharing it on Twitter or Facebook. Thank you! Cici the Polka Dot Princess and CS 

good news for pit bulls

Some good news on the pit bull front…

Georgia, possibly Hector and Handsome Dan’s mama, just got adopted into her forever home !!!!  am so happy for her and her new family.

http://blogs.bestfriends.org/index.php/2012/02/10/vicktory-dog-georgia-adopted/

There is word on the street that several cities with long-standing bans against pit bulls are going to be repealing the bans… Miami, Florida for one. That would be awesome.

Will there actually be a Patrick’s Law enacted finally?

NJ SPCA

LEGAL ALERT : Senator T. Kean, Jr has sponsored Senate Bill S1303 called Patrick’s Law …… This bill, designated as “Patrick’s Law,” increases to crimes of the fourth degree, the offenses of depriving an animal of necessary sustenance, or abusing an animal, and it increases the grade of these offenses to crimes of the third degree if the animal dies as a result of these acts. The civil penalty for these offenses would also be increased under the bill to a fine of $1,000 to $3,000 for a first offense, and $3,000 to $5,000 for a second or subsequent offense. The bill would additionally increase the criminal and civil penalties for the following offenses: 1) inflicting unnecessary cruelty upon a living animal or creature, by any direct or indirect means, including but not limited to through the use of another living animal or creature; 2) unnecessarily failing to provide a living animal or creature of which the person has charge either as an owner or otherwise with proper food, drink, shelter or protection from the weather; or 3) leaving it unattended in a vehicle under inhumane conditions adverse to the health or welfare of the living animal or creature. The criminal penalty would be increased to a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $2,000, or imprisonment for a term of not more than six months, or both, at the discretion of the court. If an animal is needlessly killed or dies as a result of one of these violations, or the person has a prior conviction for a violation of this provision, the person would be guilty of a crime of the fourth degree. The civil penalty recoverable under R.S.4:22-26 would be increased to a fine of $500 to $2,000. Furthermore, the bill requires that court-ordered restitution include the monetary cost of replacing the animal if it died or had to be euthanized because of the extent of its injuries, in addition to reimbursement of any costs for food, drink, shelter, or veterinary care or treatment, or other costs. The bill clarifies that the reimbursement would be for costs incurred by the owner of the animal, if the owner is not the person committing the act of cruelty. This bill is being introduced in response to the treatment of Patrick, a pit bull in Newark, who after being starved to an extremely emaciated condition, was placed in a garbage bag, and dropped down a garbage chute in an apartment complex in that city. The dog is now being cared for and recuperating after a maintenance person in the building collecting garbage noticed movement in one of the garbage bags and found the dog still alive inside.

another pit bull puppy was thrown in the trash, and the puppy was paralyzed… but miraculously was saved… beautiful story

http://www.godvine.com/Paralyzed-Puppy-Thrown-in-a-Trash-Can-Gets-Rescued-1127.html

Blog Hop time…  thanks to Life with Dogs,Two Little Cavaliers and Confessions of the Plume…  grab the blog code… 

Vicktory dogs rock

Fans of the Vicktory dogs will want to read this wonderful interview with Hector the Pit Bull and his family…

http://vdoglittleengineblog.blogspot.com/2012/01/20-questions-with-hector-pit-bull.html

from Little Red‘s mama…
1-14-12 Can you say relaxed!!! This is Little listening to her new CD — “Through a Dog’s Ear”. She got this wonderful gift from her good friends CeliaSue and CiCi. We love it! All 5 dogs respond to this music in the most amazing way. After breakfast (which is at 5 am in my household), the dogs are up and down and in and out and have a hard time settling. Now I put on the Through a Dog’s Ear CD and the dogs all take extended naps while I have time to sink into a novel before the day really gets going. The music is classical piano pieces and the cadences are designed to calm dogs. It’s been clinically tested with shelter dogs and I can say unequivocally that it works!!! We’ve been listening to the music every morning in preparation for Little’s 1st acupuncture session. I played the CD for her to keep her calm. It was really a special time. I’ll write about it later this weekend. Right now we’ve got some more listening and napping to do.

Handsome Dan is adjusting to his new home with his baby sister Josephine. They like to take it easy on Sunday mornings.

Cherry Garcia also had acupuncture recently…

Ellen, Ray, Squeaker and Oscar are still looking for their forever homes. They are at Best Friends Animal Society.

http://vdoglittleengineblog.blogspot.com/2012/01/former-vick-dogs-looking-for-place-to.html

Ginger Girl enjoyed her new toy from me and Cici and a recent visit to San Francisco

Jhumpa Jones and her kitty friend Lionel who is having surgery… please send prayers and loving thoughts.

Please spread the word about these wonderful ambassadogs who prove that pit bulls are loving companions who deserve to live and make great pets even after they’ve been involved in dog fighting.

Today is the Blog the Change blog hop… grab the code here and hop away…

animals are people, too

Gotta love this list especially #6…

http://www.jdnews.com/articles/disappear-99233-irritations-see.html

6. Sports figures acting badly. Michael Vick shouldn’t be playing football and if that offends you, I’m sorry. We forgive transgressions that would ruin the rest of us because they are famous or talented. Creeps like Vick should just go away, not be awarded with a huge football contract.

Here is my list of things that should be illegal because they make sane people barf, skin crawl and drive animal advocates to rescue time and time again …

1. Michael Vick shouldn’t be playing football. He should not be paid $100 million. This money should be given to pit bull rescues and the dogs he traumatized, some who are still living with the terrifying memories and nightmares of his psychopathy. Read The Lost Dogs by Jim Gorant for more inspiring info about the dogs, the truth about Michael Vick and how they prosecuted him and what he was actually charged with (gambling not bankrolling dog fighting)…  http://badrap-blog.blogspot.com/2010/08/jim-gorant-lost-dogs-our-review.html

2. The morally bankrupt Belfast City Council in Ireland. Return Lennox to his family. Period. End of story.  http://www.northcountrygazette.org/2011/12/31/lennox_next/

3. All absurd and archaic breed bans, breed discrimination and breed specific legislation. No dog should be judged on the basis of how s/he looks or because some people are afraid of dogs and do not want to hold irresponsible owners accountable for their abuse, neglect and cruelty to animals.

4. Homeless pets, homeless people. Kill shelters, what an oxymoron.  Should shelters be allowed to kill animals? An Associated Press poll says that more than seven out of 10 Americans say “No,” unless the animal is suffering. All healthy, normal dogs and cats deserve homes. Adoption centers must replace the so-called humane societies and SPCA’s around the country. Spaying and neutering of animals is mandatory until there are no more homeless pets. Neuter that boy, Spay that girl…   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWiLfGmBDO0&feature=player_embedded

5. Greedy, ethically challenged animal organizations and their sad ads on TV. Wayne Pacelle, the ASPCA and PETA and other so-called animal rights advocates that called for Michael Vick to have a dog (Humane Society of the United States), who advocate putting healthy animals to sleep (PETA) and all those who call real animal advocates terrorists for wanting NO KILL shelters and to STOP killing and torturing innocent animals.

US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been keeping files on animal rights activists who conduct undercover investigations of factory farms, and the agency is now recommending that these activists be prosecuted as “terrorists.”    …   In 2006, Congress passed the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act (AETA)   http://occupycorporatism.com/?p=2258

http://www.nathanwinograd.com/?p=8052

(The City of Austin finished 2011 with a 91% rate of lifesaving for dogs and cats, the largest community in the nation to do so. Williamson County, TX finished the year with a 91% rate as well. They join a host of other communities who have crossed the 90% threshold including Allegany County, MD, Arlington, VA, Berkeley, CA, Duluth, MN, Marquette, MI, Reno, NV, Shelby County, KY, and many, many more…)

6. Puppy mills, hoarders and pet stores who sell sick animals and keep animals in horrendous conditions in exchange for money.

7. Animal abusers including dog serial killers, animal rapists and irresponsible pet owners who chain their dogs and/or leave them outside loose 24/7, abandon their animals, neglect their pets, leave their pets to starve, return their pets to the pound because they are moving, suddenly allergic or the puppy barked, refuse to spay/neuter and/or harshly punish their pets. http://www.dogsagainstromney.com/2012/01/did-mitt-romney-drive-through-car-wash.html

8. Television shows, video games and movies that exploit animals and people, police, detective, talk and reality shows that highlight violence, encourage dog fighting, the lowest common denominator, sexually abuse children (Toddlers and Tiaras) and teenagers and otherwise encourage sociopathic behavior.

9. Dog fighting, cock fighting, horse racing and other forms of “sport” that harms animals.

10. Corporations that Experiment on and are toxic to animals, humans and the earth including pet food companies (especially those that use rendered/dead animals and toxic ingredients and chemicals and call this Healthy, Natural or other misleading terms). Monsanto, the Koch brothers empire and the oil, gas, nuclear and coal industries and the entire deathcare industries including the pharmaceutical industry and allopathic medicine.

 
11. Corporations and fetuses considered people. Animals are lawfully considered sentient beings not property and are endowed with the same rights as human beings.  http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/196469/20110811/mitt-romney-corporations-people-mitt-romney-corporations-citizens-united-legal-personhood.htm

https://celiasue.wordpress.com/2012/01/07/are-dogs-religiousspiritual-beings/

12. All wars for profit (all wars) including the War of Terror and war mongers who destroy countries, animals and people for money. Pray that the Iran war is Over before it officially begins… they are beating the war drums. Getting louder by the day, folks.

http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=4454

Lucky 13. Speaking of rights, ALL civil liberties set forth in the Constitution and Bill of Rights are returned to ALL American citizens. All legislation and bills denying the American people these rights are abolished and the politicians who voted for the Patriot Act, the NDAA and SOPA are recalled and sent to prison along with the Wall Street banksters, the TSA, lobbyists, elite racists and millionaires and billionaires who refuse to pay taxes, and corporate hucksters who ruined the economy and sent American jobs overseas.

http://www.nationofchange.org/he-signed-it-dotted-line-1325859709

New Bill Known As Enemy Expatriation Act Would Allow Government To Strip Citizenship Without Convict

http://www.addictinginfo.org/2012/01/06/new-bill-known-as-enemy-expatriation-act-would-allow-government-to-strip-citizenship-without-conviction/

Congress is considering H. R. 3166 also known as the Enemy Expatriation Act. This bill would give the US government the power to strip Americans of their citizenship without being convicted of being ‘hostile’ against the United States.

Hint:  When Money is Taken OUT of Politics, many of these problems will be resolved.

happy holidays for the v-dogs

sweet happy jhumpa jones

http://blog.timesunion.com/dogs/holidays-at-home-with-michaelvick-dog-jhumpa-jones/1828/

and  a few of her furry friends

Ginger Girl

Here you see me sitting in front of the Christmas tree of Dogtown; instead of ornaments the staff hangs pictures of some of us animals that have been adopted. Oscar and I would like to be on that tree next year…Squeaker

Cherry Garcia

Handsome Dan

http://blog.timesunion.com/dogs/vick-dog-holidays-little-reds-first-christmas-in-a-home/1835/

Leo, gone but not forgotten

Time for our weekly Pet Blog Hop thanks to Life with Dogs,Two Little Cavaliers and Confessions of the Plume…  Grab the code and hop away…

Santa loves Senior dogs

A recent AP-Petside.com poll found that just over half of American pet owners will buy gifts for their pets this holiday season, and they’ll spend an average of $46 on their animals, with toys and treats topping the list. Overall spending in the pet industry (including food, supplies, veterinary care, grooming, boarding and pet sitting) was just over $48 billion in 2010, with over $50 billion in spending projected for 2011, according to the American Pet Products Association.

Don’t know how many folks have senior dogs but we think that seniors of both species should be honored … they are special and often get overlooked. Thankfully some folks have not forgotten seniors.

Santa has come by early for Cici this year… and anointed her his Senior K9’s helper…

the adorable polka dot princess aka Santa’s polka dot elf has a new pal…  the Hear Doggy “Flatties” (since they don’t have the stuffing)  are available in Rabbit, Skunk and Deer. And these ultrasonic toys come with a squeaker only the dog can hear. We have been having a blast!  The toy seems indestructible… we have even played tug of war with it and it looks fine. Cici has chewed on the toy and look ma, no marks on it. Amazing.  Don’t they look adorable together.

and we are donating a bounty of cool items including two flatties, bamboo and charcoal, harness, massager, toothbrush for oldsters, and more…

to Peace of Mind Dog Rescue, who rescue senior dogs and assist senior pet owners

AND

to some very special V-dogs at Best Friends Animal Society…

the V(icktory) Dogs were rescued from a dog fighting ring in April of 2007. 22 of those dogs went to Best Friends Animal Society. Of the 22, there are 14 who are still there. Of the 14, there are two (Lucas and Meryl) who will remain for life. There are a few up for adoption (see below).

If you wish to send gifts to any of these dogs (and a friend at the sanctuary), here’s the info:

Dogtown

Best Friends Animal Society

5001 Angel Canyon Road

Kanab, Utah 84741-5000

Main phone: (435) 644-2001

Please write the name of whomever you are sending in for. I want to make sure they all have a little something.

The V Dogs currently at Best Friends (links to their Guardian Angel pages):

Curly:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13619&tc=WDGENB

Denzel:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13631&tc=WDGENB

Lance:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/list.cfm?action=viewall&tc=WDGENB

Layla:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13625&tc=WDGENB

Lucas:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13624&tc=WDGENB

Meryl:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13628&tc=WDGENB

Mya:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13778&tc=WDGENB

Squeaker:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13640&tc=WDGENB

Tug:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13630&tc=WDGENB

Willie Boy:
https://www.bestfriends.org/donate/detail.cfm?action=sponsor&itemID=13626&tc=WDGENB

V Dogs for adoption (please read their bios, as with all potential adoptions, there are some considerations. As much as we would all love to give a V Dog (ANY dog) a home, we may not suit their needs.) To become a Guardian Angel, click the “Sponsor” tab (the same page as the others will open).

Ellen:
http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013629

Georgia:
http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013627

Oscar:
http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013621

Ray:
http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?dbid=1013639

Magnetic therapy for your dog (or cat). The Silver Tails Magnetic Therapy puts magnets right on your dog. The sleeve is available in small, medium and large sizes and starts at about $5. The collar sleeve and other items in the Silver Tails line (part of the Quaker Pet Group) are sold at Petco stores and online at various retailers.

Magnets work to increase blood flow to an area which means more oxygen and more nutrients to help speed healing. It’s non-invasive and has no harmful side effects.

We know a few pooches who just had surgery who can use one of these harnesses…

The Silver Tails Bottoms Up Harness is perfect for dogs suffering from weak rear end ailments. It supports the dog’s back end while walking, climbing up steps, or entering a vehicle.

The adjustable harness strap fits around the dog’s back legs and clips to the dog’s collar. You can then use the strap handle to lift the dog’s butt giving the dog a boost to stand up. Use the longer leash strap for added support while walking with you.

Whether your senior dog suffers from hip dysplasia, arthritis, or is recovering from surgery, the Bottoms Up Harness will enhance their quality of life.

The harness is adjustable and fits dogs from 20 to 150 pounds.

Bamboo Charcoal Mats

These all-purpose mats and pet bed covers are designed to increase an older dog or cat’s comfort. The mats absorb moisture and odors and help keep pets warm.

Best of all they are machine washable and keep car and furniture dry. The bamboo insert is hand washable and gets recharged by the sun.  Looks lovely, too.

Cici cannot wait for me to use the massager and tooth brush on her…ok, I must admit, I have not brushed her teeth on any regular basis or any basis at all. I think it is important and all that but well, although I do stick my fingers and hands inside Cici’s mouth on a regular basis, the idea of brushing her teeth, has not seemed exactly appetizing. But I will now that I have a proper doggie toothbrush.

The Silver Tails™ Vet-Tech Dental Care System includes everything you need to easily clean your pet’s teeth and gums. The one-handed, ergonomically designed handle allows for greater control and a more pleasant dental cleaning experience for you and your pet. The system includes two kinds of disposable micro-fiber heads. The textured cleaning heads absorb tarter build-up, food particles and debris, removing it from your pet’s mouth. The polishing heads smooth and seal the enamel surface for a longer lasting clean.  Brushing sparkling white teeth and healthy gums. Cici is pretty mellow about me doing most things so I think it will be pretty easy to do.

Speaking of teeth, freeze this toy and voila… a yummy toy that soothes sensitive gums. To ease common senior mouth discomfort, simply soak the toys in water, freeze, and then play. Silver Tails toys are great for teething puppies too!

The Silver Tails Infrared Massager features two heated massage heads – a large head for greater coverage and a small head for smaller breeds and concentrated joint relief. A three-function switch allows for separate heat and massage control. Use daily to help soothe sore muscles, arthritis, hip dysplasia and other age-related discomforts. Rechargeable Battery & Charger Included.

The Silver Tails Hand Held Massager allows you to stay in contact with your pet, creating a great bonding experience. Two massage heads promote healthy circulation while relieving stress and muscle soreness. The flexible design lets you control pressure and the telescoping cradle fits almost any hand.  Just say Ahhhhhh…

when going for a ride with your pup, the Seat Sling is essential. It is a hammock for keeping the car fur free. There are storage pockets and slits to put your dog’s seat belt harness through. And easy washable with soap and water.

Silver Tails is part of Quaker Pet Group, LLC.

Time for our weekly Pet Blog Hop thanks to Life with Dogs,Two Little Cavaliers and Confessions of the Plume…  Grab the code and hop away…