I recently found a video about DogTown’s Dog Care Manager, Michelle Besmehn, and her work with Vivian, a dog rescued during Hurricane Katrina.  The people directly touched by Katrina will never forget the tragedies they’ve suffered.  The rest of us (dry, cozy and relatively unaffected) need occasional reminders that there are lives that will never be the same in the aftermath of that destruction.  And while I would never place a canine life ahead of a human life in order of importance, every reader knows how I feel about the dogs that enrich our lives.

Finding this touching video helped me discover other updated rescue and success stories about Hurricane Katrina dogs.

Thanks to Furever Friends, the Humane Society of the U.S., and the Louisiana SPCA, the Coffee family was reunited with Tippy, their dog they had to leave behind during their relocation ordeal after the hurricane.

Three years after his owners fled the destruction of Katrina, Bourbon is the tail-wagging success story of the Washington D.C. Animal Rescue League.  Ron and Jessica Simon are his new owners and he looks quite happy!

I love stories of families reunited with pets in any circumstance.  Learning about rescue efforts after natural disasters is particularly heart-warming to me.  For some individuals or families, their pet is all they have, and that pet truly means the world to them.  So my personal thanks goes out to all the rescue efforts of those many wonderful organizations.
---Jennifer Fischer



Thanks again, Jennifer!

Don't go anywhere. It's time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made the headlines this past week.

Just like human news, the stories aren't always good. Sad news out of Beaver Dam.

Lesson for lost dogs: Find a travel agency.

How about the guy who dove in to save a dog from a shark attack!

Jennifer wrote about Katrina rescue dogs today. In Texas, cadaver dogs to the rescue.

And in case you missed it in last Sunday's USA WEEKEND, military dogs are often heroes, too.

That's it for this week. Remember, Halloween is just around the corner. Still looking for a doggie costume? In Florida, Wiggles Dog Wigs is offering this get-up  that I'm sure you'll recognize, you betcha!

Want to make sure Halloween is a HOWLING success for all the members of your family?  Then remember Fido would like a little Trick-Or-Treating too!  Your four-legged friend probably won’t be wagging his tail at the thought of dressing up in a costume but face it, you can’t resist.    When you find what you think is the pawfect costume to suit your Poodle’s personality, remember these tips. 

 

 



If you’re going to go through all the trouble of dressing up your Dachshund, why not go all the way and throw a party for the neighborhood dogs?  It’s not as complicated as you might think if you follow the advice from our friends at Animal Planet.

Even though we don’t have a dog yet, I am on the email list for PawPrints Across Your Heart in Greendale Village.  This link will take you to their newsletter where you can read about their upcoming annual Halloween Costume Contest on October 19^th.  In the past they have had a game of “bobbing for hot dogs” in beef-flavored water for the dogs to enjoy.  I think that is a wonderful idea that you could incorporate into your own Halloween party.

All responsible dog owners know that chocolate is one of the biggest no-no’s for canines.  That doesn’t mean you can’t offer special, seasonal treats to your dog and your guest dogs at the party.  You know they would love to tear in to a party platter from Doctors Foster and Smith. 

Of course, Halloween isn’t complete without a scare.  Tell Fido you’ve decided to adopt a pair of kittens next week.
---Jennifer Fischer


Thanks, Jennifer. Always a nice job!

Must be my turn. Yes, indeed, Barking Lot fans, it is time. It is time. It is time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines...................that made..........headlines the past week. And we've got a whole big bowl full of stories, so let's get right to them.

As I've written in the past, not every dog item is warm, fuzzy and fluffy. In Sheboygan, a woman lied about a dog, and that got her into trouble.

Staying in Sheboygan, that's where a seminar was held this week on how to recognize the problem of dogfighting and prosecute offenders.

In Muwkonago, there's a push to allow therapy dogs in parks for special events.

In Brookfield, there was more talk about restricting the number of household pets.

A new book is out this week that tells the true story of Izzy. Izzy is a very good dog.

Would your dog ever cheat on you?

And how about this photo gallery. Excuse me............but.............I...........couldn't help..........noticing......... that...........your dog..............is ............really.............big.

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Another Barking Lot is in the books, and since Jennifer has already started the holiday theme, we close with his special public service annoucement:

This Halloween, be kind to your pet.

TO NEW READERS: The Barking Lot is a regular weekly feature of This Just In...co-written by my wife and yours truly. Jennifer provides the opening blog and then I bring you DOGS IN THE NEWS.


THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.

TODAY:  “A” all day and this evening.

SUNDAY:  Ditto. A picture perfect dog-walking weekend is in store.


Everyone plays the dreaming game “If I ever won the lottery…”  For me the list includes charitable donations, paying off our home, a European cruise, and purchasing a second home in Arizona to escape the terrible Wisconsin winters.  After those are accomplished I have only half-jokingly said that I would seek out the best Hollywood plastic surgeon and come home with a new body.  Then common sense takes over and I nix the nip-and-tuck plan.

In recent research for The Barking Lot I noticed topics on animal welfare websites discussing cosmetic surgery for dogs.  I must admit it isn’t something I’ve given too much thought to in the past.  As I have mentioned before I am NOT a card-carrying member of PETA.  I am proud to be a carnivore and feel we are at the top of the food chain for a reason.

I have always said that I would never choose to crop my dog’s ears or dock its tail.  I feel that nature made the dog a certain way and I would not want to alter that.  I do understand that show dogs have this done quite often to conform to breed standards.  And for as many dog shows as I watch I really don’t sit there and think, “They never should have docked that Soft Coated Wheaton’s tail!”

Since my dog Sugar was half Basenji hound, she displayed every Basenji physical characteristic including curly “pig tail” and perky ears.  She also did not bark.  She could, but only on occasion would she let out a soft chortle.  Skippy, on the other hand, was a rambunctious Springer Spaniel who would, literally, bark at leaves blowing down the street in the fall.  Were there times we all wished she would suffer a bout of extended laryngitis?  Of course.  Would we ever consider having her surgically “debarked?”  Never.

Most people are familiar with tail docking and ear cropping, and some are familiar with debarking.  But how VAIN are you if you need cosmetic surgery for your DOG???

May I suggest any money you would spend on this surgery, you put towards some psychotherapy for yourself?
---Jennifer Fischer


Thanks again, Jennifer. My turn. Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.

We've had some pretty serious weather the past few weeks. Federal law requires that state and local governments help animals during an emergency or natural disaster.

No muskrat love in Kaukauna.

It works for Superman and Batman. Can a cape turn your dog into a superhero?

In today's Journal Sentinel Cue section, kids and pets.

A star is born......in a shelter.

And  here's a great story about the heroics of Buddy, including video.

Finally, let’s dip into the e-mailbag and see what’s on the minds of Barking Lot readers, shall we?


Dear Kevin:

You seem to collaborate well with Jennifer every week on your dog blog. I find that amazing. My wife and I could never do anything like that. We’d be at each other's throats into the first paragraph. What’s your secret?

Frying pan head


Dear Frying pan head:

There’s really no secret. It was either let Jennifer write a dog blog or have her mother over every weekend.


Dear Kevin:

We have to be totally honest. We can’t stand The Barking Lot. Frankly, it gives us the creeps. How about a blog about cats?

Felix and Sylvester


Dear Felix and Sylvester:

Sorry you feel that way. To answer your question, no way. Dogs are much cooler than cats.


Kevin:

Let me get right to the point. What is your problem?

Your wife seems so nice. And you won’t get her a dog! What is wrong with you? Do you hate dogs or something?

Have a heart


Dear Have a heart:

It’s not that I hate dogs. It’s that my wife loves them more than she loves me.


Mr. Fischer:

I have another bone to pick with you. You may recall I wrote some time ago when you had a video of Rowlf from the Muppets on your blog, singing “Egg Suckin’ Dog” in a barn with Johnny Cash.  I found that to be very unfair because Rowlf has such awesome talent.

You responded with another Rowlf video, this time butchering a Gilbert and Sullivan opera.

How dare you portray Rowlf in this manner. He is a caring, kind, deeply sensitive and sentimental animal. You’re just plain mean.

Rowlf fan


Dear Rowlf fan:

After conducting some research, I indeed owe you an apology. Rowlf is, in fact, quite sentimental. I am very sorry.

I have said many times that I would gladly take an exact duplicate of my Basenji-mix Sugar.  She was such an outstanding dog that if I could wave a magic wand and have her from puppy to old age all over again, I would do it in a heartbeat. 

I truly hope that someday I will have a dog that has the same wonderful qualities as Sugar did.  I want a dog that is gentle, loving, and fun to be around.  I want a dog whose behavioral qualities include not jumping, minimal barking and who wouldn’t harm the fleas on its back.

I loved Sugar with all my heart.  But I would not consider CLONING her to have her in my life again.  Oh, I could give all sorts of bioethical arguments, religious arguments and coin the much-overused phrase, “it’s a slippery slope.”  I was a Philosophy minor, I know all about the slippery slope rebuttal.  The most succinct way to express my feelings about this is, “It creeps me out.” 

Wave a magic wand?  Yes.  Sell my home to have it happen?  Um, no. 

This is not to say that I don’t understand, to some extent, why Bernann McKinney sold her home for money to have her beloved Pit Bull Booger cloned into five puppies.

Pet owners throughout history have gone to financial extremes to help their four-legged friends.  Last week I blogged about Ted Schneck, founder of The Dog Cancer Ride.  This is just one example of pet owners making sacrifices for their pet’s health. 

We’re not talking about cloning for medical research and I’m not even going to get in to that arena.  We are talking about “everyday” people paying money to a private firm to clone their pets.  The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals takes this position on cloning pets.  The San Francisco SPCA furthers this opinion with their statement.  

Cloning your pet comes with a steep price tag.  It also carries several other consequences…  not the least of which is (almost certain) compromised health for the clones.  I’m sorry, but I feel there are many other opportunities to bring new joy into your life after the loss of a pet.  If you had a fondness for that particular breed you could adopt from a breed rescue.  If you are not able to adopt another pet right away, you could donate money to your local shelter in memory of your pet.  If you can not offer financial support to a shelter, consider volunteering.  You would be helping the organization and you would have the benefit of animal interaction to help ease your pain.

Perhaps someday cloning pets will be as common as dog parks.  But I certainly hope not.
---Jennifer Fischer


Thank you once again, Jennifer.

When Jennifer's done, it's time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.

We have some dog heroes this week. There's Sadie......

And Lexi .....

And Pebbles.

I hope UWM students weren't involved in this one. Some rather large bulldogs are missing.

This too shall pass....but not easily.

Save a Dog, Win a Hog!


That's it, fido fans. We close with this week's announcement of the winner of the CBS series, "The Great American Dog."

 
Even though I was very young at the time, I will never forget when Sugar was first diagnosed with cancer.  I don’t remember the details except there was a tumor on her hip that quickly grew in size and needed to be removed.  Surgery would not be cheap but it was our only option to keep her alive for any length of time.  Our family chose to have the operation performed.

It was successful and for several years she remained cancer-free.  It did come back a second time, however.  This time we chose comfort measures because she was simply too old to put her through another operation.  That time, the surgery alone could have taken her life. 

She put up a great fight and stayed with us for quite some time.  Eventually one illness on top of another took its toll and we had to make the excruciating choice to have her euthanized.  She was the first of three pets (Tommy my cat and Skippy would be the second and third respectively) that I would hold in my arms those last moments of their lives.

That’s the downside of pet ownership.  It’s a BIG downside.  But it is also the “circle of life” that you commit to when you adopt a four-legged family member.

Ted Schneck is the founder of The Dog Cancer Ride.  He has dedicated his summer to raise money for dog owners faced with helping their pets with cancer.  You can read more about his story here.   

His website offers more information on his ride:  Click on the video link for his heartfelt story of why he decided to ride from the Oregon coast to the Atlantic coast.  In his video he talks about the people who say, “You’re riding for dogs???!!!” as if it is the most ludicrous thing in the world.  OK so maybe canine cancer doesn’t rate right up there with world hunger, AIDS and the babies that Angelina Jolie has yet to adopt.  But for some owners, their dog is literally the last thing they have in their life, as documented in this letter to Ted:

“I am disabled and on Social Security.  My dog is ALL I have in my life.  I suffer from manic depression and to lose this dog who I have had for 13 years would literally kill me… I cry every night with my precious boy sleeping next to me, hoping that god will make him better.  He has been through everything with me, homelessness, a divorce, just everything.  He is literally my reason for breathing.  I sold my transportation to pay for the last surgery he had.  I have nothing left except him.  Please, help me...”

I think his mission is commendable and I wish him the best of luck in his quest to help owners of dogs with cancer.
---Jennifer Fischer


Thanks, Jennifer and I concur.

It's time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week. As I've mentioned in the past on The Barkling Lot, the news isn't always positive. Machine, a bullgog, died during a delayed Delta Airlines flight, prompting an investigation.

Another dog's death in California has spurred a call to speed up the tracing of cellphones.

Here's an update on story previously reported on The Barking Lot. The mayor of Berwyn Heights is not happy with the findings of an inquiry into a raid at his home by sheriff's deputies in which the family's two dogs were shot and killed. Shame on those deputies.

How about we change the mood? Meet Antoine.

Antoine is one of the many great stories we hear about dogs assisting veterans.

Whatever happened to the 48 pit bulls trianed to kill that were taken from Michael Vick's illegal dogfighting scheme? The National Geographic Channel explored that question in a two-hour special Friday night but the program will be repeated. Details, including a preview video can be found here.

And the city of Houston is seriously considering a law to spay and neuter pets.

That's it for The Barking Lot. We close by noting we're now in the fall movie season. Two upcoming movies won't be classics, but they are based on dogs. Take a look.

Labor Day weekend is the traditional “Kiss Summer Goodbye” party.  This weekend is usually celebrated with cookouts or perhaps last-minute end-of-summer get-aways.

I’ve mentioned before that one of the objections Kevin raises to us getting a dog is he feels the dog should not have to be left alone for long periods of time.  We do enjoy traveling, especially an extended get-away somewhere warm in the winter months.  Certainly in those situations we would need to make special arrangements for our furry friend.  Luckily we have friends and family who would be happy to help us out.

If you are a dog owner who is not in the fortunate situation to be able to leave your dog at home or have a friend take them in during your vacation, you are not without options.

Certainly there is the traditional kennel boarding found throughout the state, and could possibly be provided by your regular veterinarian.  The American Kennel Club offers tips for boarding your dog. 

Traditional kennel boarding is only one option for your fuzzy family member… Central Bark Doggy Daycare offers a reassuring option of sleepovers for their regular clients.  Donnybrook Inn in Cedar Grove offers pooch-pampering accommodations.  

If you prefer to have your dog remain in your home while you are away, you have a resource for that, too.  Critter Sitters of Milwaukee can help keep your dog comfortable in his/her own surroundings, with minimal interruptions in their usual daily routine.

Last but not least, consider vacationing WITH your dog.  A girl’s camp in Northern Wisconsin offers one weekend a year called Dog Days of Wisconsin when you can camp and play right along with your dog.  (Just remember to alter those S’mores for Fido with CAROB since they can’t have chocolate!)
----Jennifer Fischer


Thanks, Jennifer!

When Jennifer's done and relinquishes the blog back to her better half, that means it's time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.

Do not mess with Pawlee!

And with a name like Elvis, this dog knows how to party.

Thanks for checking in to The Barkling Lot, and remember, if you're taking Fido camping....

Last night I met a two-month-old puppy named Mario.  He was a liver and white Springer Spaniel.  While my Skippy was a BLACK and white Springer, petting Mario nonetheless brought back some wonderful memories of Skippy’s puppyhood.  Needless to say that encounter melted my heart and made me wish we had four paws to greet us when we got home.

Then I was surprised to read that my “type” isn’t the most likely to even want to own a dog, much less be as obsessed about them as I am.  “How can this be?” I thought.  I am the PERFECT candidate for owning a dog.  I’ve grown up with dogs, I realize the time and dedication it takes to own them.  I understand the heartbreak of having a sick pet euthanized.

Me?  Not a dog person?  I don’t take dog ownership lightly!  I’ve read the American Kennel Club’s suggestions on finding the right dog based on temperament, size, etc.  I’ve read the similar tips from the Westminster Kennel Club on finding a dog to match your lifestyle. 

Hmmm…  I guess it was just my fate to be born between January 21^st and February 19^th.  It seems we Aquarians are the least likely to own dogs:

Aquarius
OK, so you aren't the most likely of all the Sun Signs to own a dog, but those of you who crave a dog to call your own will want to consider the gracious Rhodesian Ridgeback. This is a breed of intelligence, which you can appreciate, and is also very independent and willing to follow the road less traveled with you. Just keep in mind that they have very intense sight and sound triggers, so they will wander off if something stirs their curiosity.

Kevin fared better in his astrological assessment of dog parenthood:

Aries
The American Staffordshire Terrier (Amstaff for short) is a confident dog that makes a very loyal and devoted companion for the Ram. They have a rep for being slightly aggressive - something you can relate to! - but your dedication to training them correctly will make all the difference in their demeanor. Amstaffs are very trusting and amiable but can be stubborn at times; however, if you assert yourself like a true Aries can, they'll be your compliant companions.

Read the entire article on picking your dog by zodiac sign here. 

Why can I see Kevin trying to use the fact that I fall under a certain Sun Sign to his advantage?  I can hear him now:  “Well, Jennifer I WAS going to get you a Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier this Christmas.  But now that I know Aquarians aren’t the most likely fit for dog ownership, I think we’ll just get a goldfish.”
----Jennifer Fischer


Or a hamster.

Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.

Ok, who do you side with: the cop or the dog owners?

Cities are considering breed-specific dog rules.

Congratulations, humans. You're actually teaching your dogs morals.

You also determine how bright that dog of yours is.

Come aboard the canine cruise!

That's it for this week. On behalf of Jennifer, thanks for checking out The Barking Lot.

Remember, those summer games in Beijing may soon be over, but more Olympics are coming in December.



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TODAY’S SPECIAL GUEST BLOGGER: Me.
I’m filling in for Jennifer who is on a dog blog hiatus, but plans to return next week.


Since I’m in charge this week, let’s get a couple things straight. No, we still don’t have a dog. Just about everywhere I go, people I see engage in conversation that usually goes like this:

“Hi. How are you?  Didja get a dog yet? Have you gained weight?”

No dog yet. Baby first. Then dog. Then I move into the garage.

Let’s talk doggie politics. In a previous Barking Lot, we passed along the story that California is considering a proposal regarding dogs and driving.

Politicians have gone doggone crazy, suggesting we ban cell phones while driving. They’re a distraction you know. We also need to ban texting while driving, they tell us.

But why stop there? Why not Egg McMuffins, newspapers, radio’s, CD players, video displays, coffee cups, lipstick, toothbrushes, other passengers (they’ll talk or even nag and that’s distracting, no?).

In that often crazy world called California, legislators want to ban holding a dog on your lap while driving. The idea is not only silly, it’s unnecessary.

Like Wisconsin that has a law against inattentive driving that addresses all of the concerns about distractions, California has a law that prohibits people from driving with their view obstructed or if there is interference with their control of the vehicle. There is no prohibition against pets moving around freely in vehicles. So your dog or cat can bounce around wild in the back seat, but California lawmakers don’t want you to hold your pet on your lap.

A Republican California Assemblyman has come up with his foolishness. Bill Maze’s bill would prohibit people from driving while holding a live animal in their arms or lap. Get caught (because the California Highway Patrol has nothing better to do than to keep their eyes out for dogs on drivers’ laps) and you pay a fine of $35-$100.

Think this silly bill can’t become law? Guess again. Remember, this is California we’re talking about. The bill has already been approved in the Assembly and is now before the Senate. Time is running out, however. The legislative session in California ends August 31. If the Senate does approve the measure by the end of the month, it would still need to be approved by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The California Highway Patrol has been keeping track of the top ten distractions involved in accidents. Guess where “animal” ranks? Ninth.

According to a California legislative document on the proposed bill, AB 2233, “From 2002 through 2007, there were just 755 collisions, three of which involved a fatality, where an associated factor was listed as "animal." The same document says, “Animals sitting on one's lap may be calmer and thus less distracting than those engaged in other behaviors that would continue to be permitted under this bill.”

Like a bone in the backyard, this bill needs to be buried.


Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.

As I've said in the past, the news isn't always good. Such is the case in this disturbing story from Maryland where an overzealous group of police officers stormed the home of a local mayor and needlessly shot and killed two dogs. The FBI is investigating. Read more about what happened.

Is the puppy clone-owner a former sex kidnapper?

How about some good news.....watch puppies rescued from a floor.

Why does your dog yawn? He/she may not be tired. But you might be.

The number of ways to pamper your dog keeps getting bigger and bigger.

Just yesterday, I got one of those e-mails that circulates everywhere, the kind that has you wondering if it's true or false. This was about a dog with three legs. Turns out the story's legit.

This weekend at the Wisconsin State Fair, it's the National Diving Dog Tour.

And finally, what are you getting your dog for ELVIS Week? ELVIS Week begins today. May I suggest the 68 Special scroll dog collar, a Hound Dog Alley street sign, the Burning Love squeezer dog, and for you ladies, the Hound Dog necklace. 

I kinda like this item.

That's it for this week. Thanks for stopping by. We close with, appropriately, the King, who knew all too well how good dogs really have it.

Everyone knows I’m one of the biggest dog lovers in Franklin… in Wisconsin… in the Midwest… in the United States… OK, you get the picture.  Everyone also knows that currently I do not own a dog.  That, of course, is more due to my better half’s choice than mine.  Until circumstances are perfectly conducive to us becoming pet parents, I will have to make do with enjoying the dogs of family, friends and neighbors.  (Especially Mickey, a Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier that lives a few doors down from us.  I love her to pieces.)

I regularly buy treats at Greendale’s Pawprints Across Your Heart for my dog-in-law Leia.  I make dog biscuits at Christmas to give to the special dogs in my life.  I will go up to a total stranger and ask them if I can pet their dog.  I never remember the owner’s name but never forget the pooch’s.  Our calendar (this year it’s all dog cartoons from the New Yorker) proudly displays the dates of the dog shows.  I’m eagerly awaiting Irish Fest this year (as always) for many reasons but the biggest is their Dogs of Ireland area… filled with beautiful Irish dogs…  Irish Setters, Irish Wolfhounds, Soft Coated Wheaton Terriers, Skye and Cairn Terriers, etc.  I can not rest until I’ve met and petted at least one of every breed.  And speaking of ethnic festivals, yes I did make Kevin watch the Dachshund races (in the blazing hot sun) at German Fest last week.

So you see, there are ways to get a “dog fix” without having a dog.  But I would never go so far as to rent a dog.  “What???” you say.  “RENT a dog???”  Yes, there are some crazy fools out there who want companionship without commitment of any sort.  And they pay high prices for it.  Hmmm… let’s think about this.  High-priced companionship without commitment.  In human situations that could land you in jail!

Get this:  FlexPetz is a doggie rental service.  Yes, RENTAL.   Not a foster pet-parent program like the Wisconsin Humane Society offers.  For $99 a month and then $45 per day you can actually rent a dog.  You can read more about FlexPetz here. 

I’m not saying the pets owned by this company are abused.  I’m sure some of them have been rescued from less-than-desirable situations.  I would also like to think that anyone willing to spend $99 a month and $45 a day to have canine companionship for even a little while would, truly, love dogs.  I just think it’s wrong.  I echo the concern in the Newsweek article about the psychological effects on the dog being bounced from one renter to the other, and certainly the “shelf life” of a dog.  Who is going to rent a 14-year-old Lab with hip dysplasia and a bladder-control issue?  What happens to those dogs?  I wonder.

For me, I will stick with enjoying the dogs in my life just the way they are until I can have one (or more!) of my own.
---Jennifer Fischer


Could rent-a-spouse be next?

Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.

Sushi went to a pet groomer.....and died.

Here's a sad situation, and a warning: Keep an eye on your pets.

We hate when bad people do bad things to dogs. We love when the bad people get caught. Of course, the accused is denying any wrongdoing.

Last week, we told you about a beaten puppy named Phoenix. Here's a video update on his progress.

Your dog acting up? Try doga........yoga for dogs.

Saudi Arabia knows.......dogs are chick magnets.

That's it for this week.

Remember everyone, these are.......





The dog days of summer.

The Boston Globe has dozens of pictures of dogs having fun in the warm weather.

Enjoy! (requires registration)

Last week in Kevin’s section of the Barking Lot, Dogs in the News, he linked to the story of Rocco, a beagle that was reunited with his family after FIVE YEARS.  This reunion was thanks, in part, to his microchip.

I was fortunate enough in my years of dog ownership that we never lost Sugar or Skippy even for a day.  Once in a while Sugar would manage to break free of her tether but for her that only meant walking around the front yard instead of staying in the back yard.  I can’t imagine what our lives would have been like had we lost either of them.

Almost every time I am at a grocery store or retail store I see a photo of a cat or dog with the desperate plea of “LOST.  Please call 555-8101.  Family misses Roxy very much.  Reward.”  It breaks my heart.

While having a microchip implanted in your dog can’t prevent him or her from running away, it can certainly improve the chances of getting him back.  The adoption fees at the Wisconsin Human Society include microchipping.  

You may have seen commercials for the Home Again brand of microchip, one option for your pet.

 

 

 

 

Home Again offers information and tips for pet owners considering their device. The Humane Society of the United States answers common questions about the process. The American Kennel Club also speaks about animal recovery and the use of microchips. 

As stated before I plan on adoption our future dog(s) from the Wisconsin Humane Society. Fortunately they include microchipping in the adoption process. If I would adopt a dog from any other source that did not offer it, it would be the first thing I would do as a new pet parent. It could certainly save a lot of heartache for us and our pet.
--Jennifer Fischer


DOGS????? As in, PLURAL???

Sure dear. Whatever you say, dear.

Let's change the subject, shall we.

Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS....  canines that made headlines the last week.

Some Brookfield residents aren't happy with proposed limits on dogs per household.

Has the economy affected spending habits on pets? Not when it comes to their health.

How do canines become sworn officers? Slate examines.

And an abused puppy is making great progress.

That's it for this week. Jennifer is dragging me to, I mean she's going with me to Germanfest to see the dachshund races.


And just remember animal lovers......


If your dogs beg from time to time...


Can you blame them?

PUPPY MILL CLOSED!
By Jennifer Fischer

As I have said several times on The Barking Lot, the main goal of my blog is to entertain, enlighten and warm your heart about all things Dog.  The topic of puppy mills is so horrifying to me that I generally stay away from it, because I like to keep things positive in my stories. 

Today the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel shares the story that the Wisconsin Humane Society has purchased what WAS the largest puppy mill in Wisconsin for what they said was “pennies on the dollar.”  I would say that every penny was well spent!  Today’s TMJ4 reported on it as well.

What these sweet, innocent puppies and dogs went through is really more than I can comprehend.  I know I am not the only person who would like to see the owners of these puppy mills suffer the same horrific conditions that the dogs did.  I would love to see THEM in tiny wire cages with nothing soft to lie on.  Of course they would share this “telephone booth-sized” cage with about twelve other adults.  For dinner, I would gladly feed them the Nutra Loaf  that Kevin blogged about last week.  If they started to feel ill, too bad.  No medicine for them.  And to round out the experience they would not have any outside contact from the human world… they would simply be left to their own devices with each other in that miserable existence.  We all know that won’t happen but we can dream.  Instead we can focus on supporting puppy mill legislation that is being worked on.

The Wisconsin Humane Society offers this press release about the wonderful purchase of the Puppy Haven Kennel.

Of course there are numerous expenses associated with this purchase.  Please consider a donation to help cover the enormous costs of this acquisition.  I have had many fundraising jobs for non-profit organizations.  I can tell you that any donation, no matter how insignificant YOU may think it is, is greatly appreciated.  I know that the Wisconsin Human Society feels that way too.  You can mail a check to them or follow the link to make a secure on-line donation. 

I am confident that these puppies and dogs will soon find loving adoptive homes.  I look forward to hearing updates about this project and hope to bring you another story soon.  I would like to offer a sincere, heart-felt THANK YOU to the Wisconsin Humane Society for creating a loving and hopeful future for these precious pups.
---Jennifer Fischer

The Humane Society's wonderful gesture is so important because sadly, so many dogs are abandoned, neglected, even tortured. All week long I've been following a disturbing story out of Texas where a boyfreind scorned took out his anger on a poor, defenseless puppy. Here's the story and video with a disclaimer that the details are very upsetting. CNN has more.

UPDATE: Doctors say "Phoenix" is wagging his tail and can almost stand without falling. He appears to be mostly blind, but was able to find a bit of food on his plate and is now eating on his own.

Let's continue with DOGS IN THE NEWS, more canines that made headlines the past week.

Andre has only two legs, but is a VIP, Very Important Pooch.

Dogs are great for TV ratings.  However, the show's second week saw a drop of over two million viewers. Time to bounce back, guys!

And Incredibly, a dog lost five years ago is back home.

That's it for this week. Unlike previous weekends, this one's not an A+ when it comes to dog walking. Take the umbrella.

And consider adoption.

And To My Best Friend, Fido, I Leave...
By Jennifer Fischer

From the beginning of time, the reading of a will has been an emotional final “good-bye” from a loved one.  Throughout history, people have left fortunes to the people they cared for. 

These readings, some historically accurate and some soap opera fiction, have also been the source of additional drama, stress, and fighting.

Perhaps you have given detailed thought to your final wishes, or maybe the very idea of doling out your life’s treasures after your demise makes you shiver.  Bring up the topic to your family and they will (hopefully!) say, “Oh, let’s not talk about that.  I don’t want anything from you, I just want you around forever,” or express a similar sentiment.

But what is Fido thinking?  “Um, who’s gonna put water in my dish?  Who’s gonna take me for a walk?  Who’s gonna buy me a new squeaky toy every week?  Huh?  Huh?”  You look down at those deep, dark eyes, at that wagging tail, and you realize perhaps you should consider EVERY member of your family.

Last week in Kevin’s Dogs In The News section of The Barking Lot, he mentioned Leona Helmsly’s plan to provide for her pooches after her death.  Undoubtedly you read that, shook your head and quipped, “That’s NUTS.”  But is it?

You view your dog as a member of the family.  You feed him (or her), walk him, bathe him, take him for regular veterinary check-ups.  So why would your caring stop if Fido should outlive you? 

It may not be something you every really thought about.  But the Humane Society of the United States offers tips for providing for your four-legged friend after your death.   Even AARP discusses what pet owners should consider when planning their estate.

So whether you have a trusted family attorney draw up your last will and testament, or you are more of a “do-it-yourselfer”  perhaps you will give additional consideration to your rawhide-loving friend.  Perhaps ol’ Leona wasn’t such a nut after all.
--Jennifer Fischer


Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.

Are you ready?

We begin with a timely, political question. Will pet owners choose Obama or McCain?

Here's another question. Which breed of dog is the most aggressive?

And did you see last Sunday's USA WEEKEND section in your Sunday paper? The front page story was all about cats, but dogs were a major part of the piece.

And finally, dogs were a topic on the THE VIEW.

We agree, Whoopi.

Here on The Barking Lot, we've touched upon this issue in the past. These are terrific dog walking days. Just remember to please be considerate of others. As they say in Hawaii:




PICK IT UP! PU


 

Paying Premiums for your Pooch?
By Jennifer Fischer

I have written several times about my two childhood dogs, Sugar and Skippy.  (I was also blessed with a wonderful cat, Tommy.  He was the most “non-cat” cat I’ve ever known.  All he wanted to do was eat, sleep, and be petted while sitting on your lap.  While I loved Tommy sitting on my lap, eventually my legs would fall asleep.  You see, Tommy was pushing the scales at over 30 pounds).

Each of these three incredible pets in my life had many health challenges throughout their short time with us.  Sugar underwent cancer surgery twice.  Skippy was poisoned by a neighbor and while she survived, she was never the same.  She had liver trouble and stomach issues.  Tommy (being the 30+ pound lover-of-Twinkie Cakes that he was) had diabetes the last two years of his life.

In addition to the annual check ups and regularly scheduled shots, our pets cost our family a considerable amount of money.  Surgeries and medications for animals are just as costly as they are for humans.  Of course they got the best treatment and care we could provide them, even when it meant a financial sacrifice.  I was raised with, and still have, the belief that if you adopt a pet you need to provide for its well-being.  If you brought them into your family, you need to take care of them from beginning to end.

If pet health insurance had existed when we got Sugar, Skippy and Tommy, we would have been able to save quite a bit of money on their care and surgeries.

Dr. Jack Stephens is a former veterinarian who recognized the enormous need for pet health insurance in the United States.  His company, Pets Best Insurance, has a heart-warming history of how it was founded.  When we finally get a puppy I will definitely get an insurance policy.

Perhaps you currently have a dog with health issues.  Or perhaps you are considering a certain breed that has a propensity towards a particular health problem.  Pets Best Insurance, or a similar insurance company, could be a valuable resource for you.  I know that I will consider Pets Best Insurance in the future for our dog.



Thanks, Jennifer.

My turn. It's time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.

Unfortunately, the news isn't always good. This brave dog died in the line of duty. Closer to home, Rocco has cancer.

Pet owners are forced to make adjustments with the closing of a Greendale pet cemetery.

At Milwaukee's lakefront, border collies have been called in to combat disease-spreading birds.

Here's a touching story. Hundreds line up, not for free food, free gas, free anything. They wanted to adopt rescued dogs.

And it turns out Leona Helmsley's generosity wasn't reserved for just one dog.

We close the Barking Lot this week with an e-mail from one of our readers:


Dear Jennifer (and you, too, Kevin):

Thank you for your weekly dog blog. It is quite clear, Jennifer that you are passionate about dogs and I sure hope Kevin finally breaks down and gets you one someday.

And by the way, Kevin. I have a bone to pick with you. A few weeks ago, you closed out one of the dog blogs with a video of Rowlf from the Muppet Show, accompanying Johnny Cash in a barn singing, “Egg sucking dog.” I watched all the Muppet Shows, and being a dog-lover myself, Rowlf was one of my favorite characters. Rowlf is a talented piano virtuoso, and I’m afraid your blog singling out that video with Johnny Cash may have damaged poor Rowlf’s reputation. I certainly hope not.

A super huge Rowlf fan


Thanks for your e-mail and thanks for reading.

Please enjoy the following classical performance. (Note the candelabra).

Next Friday, July 4, 2008 will again be time to celebrate the independence of our wonderful country. 

Sights, sounds and activities over this weekend will include:  

 

Swimming, barbequing, and boating...  


  

Wearing red white and blue, putting up extra flags around our properties, listening to patriotic music or watching patriotic specials on TV...   

Watching Bartolotta’s set off their finest down at the lakefront… and in many cases trying to duplicate those colorful, gun-powder-and-mineral explosions in our own driveways.

How many people will take their dogs along to join in the festivities?  After all, dogs like hamburgers and the lazy days of summer too!  But have you stopped to consider that while your human companions are “oohing” and “ahhing” at the Big Bang....

Fido is less than happy  about the rockets’ red glare and bombs bursting in air?

Whether you are partying at Lake Michigan, in one of our beautiful county parks, or in your own back yard, there are ways to help your canine companion cope with the sounds of celebration.  

Please remember the sensitivity of your dog’s ears as you are celebrating our great country this July 4^th.  That way, EVERY member of your family can enjoy this spectacular holiday.   
-----Jennifer Fischer


Thanks, Jennifer.

I used to work at WTMJ with a talented guy named John Baas. He could do serious news but he also had a flair for feature reporting. John did a piece about dogs and vacuum cleaners that was an absolute riot, how the animals go bonkers whenever the Hoover is turned on.

Another reason not to get a dog, Jennifer. I could never clean the house!

Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines.

Pets are becoming victims of the economy.

One dog's journey from New Orleans, to Texas, and back to New Orleans...

Thi