|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Apr 18 2009, 06:00 AM
The Barking Lot is a regular weekly feature of this just in…Written by my lovely wife, Jennifer and me. It opens with the weekend dog walking forecast followed by the main blog from dog lover, Jennifer. Then it’s DOGS IN THE NEWS and our close. Enjoy!
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Partly cloudy during the day with occasional showers in the evening. High near 70. "B"
SUNDAY: Rain early, with the possibility of more showers in the afternoon. High of 45. "D"
*JENNIFER IS ON MATERNITY LEAVE AND WILL RETURN TO THE Barking Lot AT A LATER DATE*
Big doing’s going on this past week at the White House. Have you heard? After a long wait, there is finally a new First Dog. He’s Bo, a 6-month old Portuguese water pup. Bo-mania has erupted.
By the end of this month, it’s quite possible the NY Times bestseller list will feature a children’s book about Bo written by Naren Aryal with illustrations by Danny Moore, “Bo, America’s Commander in Leash” (I kinda like that). Aryal founded Mascot Books, a publisher that features books about university and school mascots.
Ty, Inc. has gotten into the act, with a Beanie Baby Bo doll in stores as of Thursday. Selling for $4.99, each Beanie Baby Bo has a secret code that leads to more fun at the manufacturer’s website.
Can Bo’s own website, a la his 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue predecessor, Barney be far behind?
The whole planet has been swept up into the odyssey of Bo, surrounded by cameras and microphones.
Photo: NY Times
News broke over the Easter weekend that Bo was a gift to the Obama girls from U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy.
Decision finally made. Obama girls are ecstatic. Bo is a media darling. The world develops a massive crush on Portuguese water dogs.
End of story?
No.
Even though this chapter of American history involves a liberal president, a liberal president’s family, a liberal president’s family dog, and a liberal news media that worships the aforementioned liberal president, even the liberal news media can’t help themselves. You must remember how they operate. Understand what’s in their blood. Their role is to be adversarial. Ergo, they must seek out the negative.
So history is in order. The president said, and it became news for months, that he would get his lovely daughters a dog. Not just any dog. Mr. Obama said the White House dog would be adopted and would not come from a breeder.
And the president didn’t just make this claim at the end of the campaign and election. Truth is he’s been talking about this for a long, long time.
Bo is not a shelter dog, and that has some people picking a Bo-ne with the Commander-in-chief.
When the president was merely a Senator, he met Dr. Jana Kohl, who wrote a book about Baby, a three-legged rescue dog and puppy mill survivor. In “A Rare Breed of Love,” Obama is seen in a photo holding Baby. He promised Kohl he would adopt a shelter dog. The news of purebred Bo isn’t sitting well with Kohl.
Kohl says, “I feel like he’s made a mockery out of the book and the things I wrote about him. I read what I said about him and it makes me cringe. This will fuel the breeding industry which will fuel the puppy mill industry, which will increase homeless dogs at shelters, and increase the numbers of dogs euthanized every year. To add insult to injury, during these tough economic times it is incredibly insensitive and elitist of them to do this. People are tearfully turning in their pets to shelters because they can’t afford them anymore. We see it on news all the time. How can they be so out of touch?”
When Kohl was reminded that the president, knowing he has angered folks will now make a donation to the Washington D.C. Humane Society, Kohl reacted, “That’s baloney. It’s farcical. They’re donating money to urge people not to do what they did.”
Also upset is Abbie Moore of Adopt-a-Pet.com:
“This is truly a missed opportunity to set a pet-adoption trend among Americans. If Obama had adopted a pet from a shelter, it could have been the turning point for the pet-overpopulation problem in this country. With pet relinquishment up 20 to 30 percent due to the poor economy, pets in shelters can use all the help they can get.”
Ryan O’Meara of Dog magazine scoffs, what do you expect from a politician, saying, “When he was resoundingly elected to office we were promised change. But, it seems, true to type the new American president is a politician at heart so should we really have expected anything different?”
Indeed, Vice President Joe Biden took some heat when he opted to use a breeder to get his dog. I’ll get another dog and it will be from a shelter, Biden told us. We’re still waiting, Mr. Vice President.
But as John Dickerson of Slate reminds us, there is another camp, the faction that isn’t acting as if its owner just turned on the vacuum cleaner. Dickerson writes there are others who feel this way:
“Obama said he would try to get a shelter dog but that he also had to take into consideration his daughter Malia's allergies. Getting her a dog she couldn't play with would have been dumb. Give him a treat and move on. OK, everybody: That was a nice break from debates about a depressed economy, the continuing threat of terrorism, and the possibility of war crimes committed by U.S. officials. But sometimes a dog is just a dog.”
Look, this isn’t the controversy of the week. Not even close. But it is a no-brainer. Did Obama break a promise? Of course he did. He said over and over and over and over and over and over again to the whole world he was going to adopt, that the next dog running rampant in the White House would be a shelter. This isn’t tough stuff, folks.
BO IS NOT ADOPTED! PERIOD!
At the same time, is this news?
Man bites dog. Now that’s news.
President Barack Obama breaking a promise. That falls into the category of dog bites man.
BUZZ!
President Obama, lying and betraying many Americans is not news. Relax, everybody. This won’t be the first or last time.
It's time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
Here's the story of a woman who taped a dog to the fridge, and a subsequent editorial.
Another week, another pit bull atrocity...............and another.
Read what's happening to many purebred dogs.
This black labrador was stabbed many times trying to save its owners.
This husky ran off into the Utah desert after surviving an accident that killed its owner and two weeks later...
How about these wonderful folks........volunteers walking dogs adorned in neon green vests proclaiming "shelter dog needs home."
A couple saved a poodle, by applying CPR.
Which of the nation's 30 largest cities does not require dog licenses?
That's some dog-friendly automobile.
Here's one The Barking Lot missed a little over a month ago, but it's quite a story involving tent dwellers keeping themselves warm.
And was that a dog I saw at a Tea Party?
That's it for this week's bo-dacious installment of The Barking Lot. Before we hit our closing video, meet the White House dog's best friend.
Thank you for stopping by!
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Apr 11 2009, 06:00 AM
The Barking Lot is a regular weekly feature of this just in
…Written by my lovely wife, Jennifer and me. It opens with the weekend dog walking forecast followed by the main blog from dog lover, Jennifer. Then it’s DOGS IN THE NEWS and our close. Enjoy!
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Sunny. High of 45. Slightly below average for this time of year, but it will be dry. "C"
SUNDAY: Mostly sunny. High of 50. "C"
*JENNIFER IS ON MATERNITY LEAVE AND WILL RETURN TO THE Barking Lot AT A LATER DATE*
A carabinieri police officer feeds an abandoned dog next to the collapsed church of San Michele, in the village of Villa Sant'Angelo, near L'Aquila, Thursday, April 9, 2009. With rescue efforts well under way for the human victims of Italy's devastating earthquake, help started to arrive Thursday for the estimated 2,000 cats and dogs left homeless by the temblor. (AP Photo/Sandro Perozzi)
Virgil McKay's dog "Mickey" stands on the sandbag dike that protects their home from rising floodwaters from the Red River, Monday, March 30, 2009, in Hendrum, Minn. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)
The past few weeks, the world has seen its fair share of natural disasters and horrific weather: a devastating earthquake in Italy, major flooding in North Dakota and Minnesota, tornadoes down south, wildfires in Texas and Oklahoma.
Our southeastern Wisconsin area is not immune to dangerous weather. A few years ago, a tornado hit near Layton Avenue and KK Avenue. Remember last June?
Understanding that people in many parts of the country can and do read this blog, I pose these questions, no matter where you live:
If a disaster of any kind were to suddenly strike, would you know what to do? Would you be capable of saving yourself, your loved ones?
And if you have pets, what about them?
Seriously.
Would you know in an instant what action to take?
Do you have a plan?
If not, why not?
If so, does it include your pets?
You’ve got to have a plan in place to save you, your family and your pets. Get one ASAP. Without one, you risk your own death and/or the death of family members and pets.
If you have a plan, that’s fine, but now is a great time to reconsider if it needs to be changed or improved.
The American Red Cross offers great suggestions for humans to follow BEFORE a disaster strikes. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, SPCA International has some important advice, a survival kit if you will, for the pets in your household.
The SPCA International says two critical components must be kept in mind:
1. How you will safely evacuate all your animals should you have to leave your home.
2. Where you will keep your animals temporarily if you are unable to return to your home for several hours, days or maybe even a couple weeks.
Think you can save your pet?
Think you don’t have to read any further?
Think you’ll be able to handle anything that comes along?
For the sake of your entire family, and that includes the dogs and cats and whatever, please continue reading.
Make sure you have the appropriate size crate or cage for transporting animals.
In your disaster supply kit (do you have one right now?), include leashes or lead ropes.
What about, and we’ve got ‘em in Franklin, horses? How about sheep, goats and pigs? You know what they’re going to need? Try a trailer. Yes, a trailer, big enough to haul those big suckers.
Where am I gonna get a trailer, you ask? You know what? I honestly don’t know because I don’t own a horse or pig or goat. But you’d better find out and soon. Check with local animal organizations. They may also be able to tell you if there are places to go for shelter for animals if and when disaster hits.
Does your pet have a collar or halter? Is there an identification tag? Does the tag have the current up to date information?
The SPCA advises that you may want to consider micro chipping as a permanent form of identification, in addition to an identification tag.
Suppose you have to evacuate. The SPCA advises you bring enough food and water to last your pets 72 hours. 72 hours? You say you can’t possibly haul all that stuff? Figure out what’s most important and what you might be able to buy later.
Do you have a pet on medication? Do not leave their prescriptions behind.
About that kit that several paragraphs back you were yelling at the computer that you already have all set up, make sure it has a self-help book in case you are unable to get immediate veterinary care for a sick or injured animal.
And let’s not forget the bunch that we know is out there and is reading this and scoffing that it could never happen here so why worry. The SPCA says now is the time to prepare because we’re ripe for flooding, tornadoes, hurricanes and wild land fires.
Please. Don’t think it couldn’t happen to you.
It’s time now for……
say it along with me…..
DOGS IN THE NEWS……..canines that made headlines the past week, and ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, do we have some incredible stuff for you dog lovers this week.
Let's start right out with the most amazing dog news of the week. Sophie Tucker survived on an island for several months. Read about how she did it, and then watch this video.
A highly decorated war hero helped apprehend the killers of his dog.
I love these videos of soldiers' pets saved.
Is it possible that dogs could benefit research by sniffing out cancer?
As we always write on The Barking Lot, the news can be bad, very bad. How senseless is this? A urinating dog may have led to the killings of three Pittsburgh police officers.
Here's an update on a story we reported on The Barking Lot months ago. A Green Bay man who viciously killed a dog has been captured in Michigan and is being sent here to face I hope will be tough charges.
A puppy mill bill is in the works in Madison.
Indianapolis wants pit bull owners to sterilize their dogs.
The maker of a Michael Vick dog chew toy (yes, there is such a thing) is being sued.
If humans have yoga, then dogs have......
Even dogs of famous world leaders mess up now and then.
What if your dog makes a mess between you and your neighbor?
You can't make this stuff up. Divorce court and frozen dog sperm. I'm not kidding.
And get ready to say AWWWWWWW! What dogs are the best dogs? Why they're.......look.
That's it for this week. Thanks for stopping by. Enjoy your weekend, and Happy Easter!
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Apr 4 2009, 06:00 AM
The Barking Lot is a regular weekly feature of this just in…Written by my lovely wife, Jennifer and me. It opens with the weekend dog walking forecast followed by the main blog from dog lover, Jennifer. Then it’s DOGS IN THE NEWS and our close. Enjoy!
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Mostly sunny. High of 45. That's about average for this time of year. "C"
SUNDAY: Windy with a mix of rain and snow. High of 35. No good. "F"
*JENNIFER IS ON MATERNITY LEAVE AND WILL RETURN TO THE Barking Lot AT A LATER DATE*
Earlier this year, I blogged that Franklin alderman Steve Taylor has proposed an ordinance to require that all dogs off their owner’s premises be on a leash. The proposal comes as the idea of a Franklin dog park is being floated around. Taylor’s plan would put the kibosh on any dog park discussions.
I’m on record that the alderman’s proposal is silly and unnecessary and somewhere in the gopher’s basement when it comes to our city’s priorities.
I raise Alderman Taylor’s proposal again, not to make fun (seriously) but because I was reminded of the idea once more while perusing newspapers from around the country.
Here in southeastern Wisconsin, where winters are 16 months long, we have no spring, and summer is gone in the blink of an eye, the prospect of a dog park where canines can romp freely with reckless, joyful abandon has tremendous appeal. A dog park creates and instills great warmth and a strong sense of community. I, for one, fail to see anything to fear or the need to call out the National Guard.
A dog at a dog park. Free to run. Unleashed. My goodness, gracious.
DEAR, GET ME THE NUMBER FOR CITY HALL!!!
Because the good Lord didn’t put us far enough south and didn’t place us near some of the world’s largest bodies of water, we are relegated to dream about dog parks.
To us beer guzzling, brat stuffing fools, the notion of a dog beach is rather foreign or at least California-like (and that could be the very same thing). But that’s exactly where the idea of a dog beach is as common as eating four scoops of custard on a summer night is to us.
With all due respect to West Allis, Cudahy, South Milwaukee, Sheboygan, Potosi, and Platteville, the most beautiful city in the entire continental United States could very well be San Diego.
San Diego was carved out of an artistic masterpiece. The sun shines 400 days out of the year, the average high everyday is 73 degrees, and the average low every night is 72.8. Humidity is non-existent.
When you’re not looking, birds land on your fingertips and chirp Broadway show tunes. Restaurants don’t make entrees, they produce nirvana. There are no ugly buildings. They’re against the law. Gorgeous blondes are tall, tan, and good looking……and that’s just the guys.
In San Diego, California, good ol’ US of A, they leave talk of dog parks for places like, well, you know. Dog parks are so pedestrian. A dog beach? That’s the ticket.
A column this week by Logan Jenkins in the San Diego Union-Tribune caught my attention, not just because of the dustup I caused on my blog recently about Steve Taylor’s fido folly, but by the column’s rather fascinating, and I believe, truthful account of how humans view dogs.
It’s Jenkins’ contention that, “Dogs divide humankind into warring halves. Never the twain shall meet.”
I can never let Jenkins meet my wife, Jennifer. The two, based on their adulation for dogs, would probably run off together to Pago Pago.
Jenkins has a theory that ties in with this whole discussion I raised about the proposed Franklin ordinance. To simplify: you either adore dogs and place them on the food chain above humans, or the very sight of them sends you into a hypochondriac panic.
(God, is this good stuff, or what? I might never give this blog back to Jennifer!)
In his column that I will link to shortly, Jenkins writes magnificently about the Felix Unger attitude about dogs. It is priceless stuff.
Words of caution to these folks: Dog park? Real easy.
Just……….
stay…..
away.
That way…..
you will not …….
go into………
cardiac arrest.
Go home.
Feed your goldfish.
Take your Diovan.
If that doesn’t work, call City Hall.
Guaranteed.....
there will be at least one elected official or bureaucrat ready and willing to say….
THERE OUGHTA BE A LAW.
Read dog lover Logan Jenkins’ column.
The previous Barking Lot blog has been brought to you by Kevin Fischer while his lovely wife, Jennifer enjoys some time off to take care of beautiful Kyla Fischer, born on March 25, 2009. Jennifer will return at a later date.
Now it's time for......
DOGS IN THE NEWS.....Canines that made headlines the past week.
You've seen and read all the stories about the devastating floods in nearby North Dakota, the rescuers handling people in desperate need of help. What about the dogs?
Read the amazing story of Tracy Lindsey.
This was quite the bombshell. PETA, according to a consumer group, killed 95% of its adoptable pets in its care last year.
HSUS =PETA
A World War II dog hero's medal is going up for auction.
Thou shalt not kill because your neighbor doesn't like your dog barking.
Over the past few months on The Barking Lot, we've blogged about the impact of the economy on pets. Don't kid yourself. They feel it, too.
When do pets act their cuddliest? Take a guess. It's no surprise.
Here's an issue that has popped up over and over again, this time in the Aloha State: Should dogs (the answer is yes) be allowed to go into schools (yes, yes, yes) to sniff out drugs?
Time magazine asks the following question...
OK, can you really blame this naughty dog for taking the wheel into its own hands?
Thank you, Colorado State University!!
Well isn't this a bite in the ass??!!
Finally we express our sadness at the passing of Victoria Wellens, the executive director of the Wisconsin Humane Society.
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Mar 21 2009, 06:00 AM
The Barking Lot is a regular weekly feature of this just in
…Written by my lovely wife, Jennifer and me. It opens with the weekend dog walking forecast followed by the main blog from dog lover, Jennifer. Then it’s DOGS IN THE NEWS and our close. Enjoy!
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Mostly cloudy early, then sunny skies around 9 a.m. with an above average high of 54. "B"
SUNDAY: More sunshine, dry conditions, above normal high temperature of 54. "B"
*JENNIFER IS ON MATERNITY LEAVE AND WILL RETURN TO THE Barking Lot AT A LATER DATE*
If I was filling in on WISN anytime soon, this surely would be a topic that would generate lively and emotional discussion. The story comes out of Durham, North Carolina. Take a look at this dog.
That’s Timber. He’s 13, a boxer-shepherd mix.
Timber got past a gate in front of his home earlier this month and bit a woman in the leg. For that, Timber was sent to the local shelter to be quarantined for 10 days while his owner, Jeff Kessler paid a required $500 fine.
Sounds reasonable so far, right? Here’s where the story takes a horrible turn.
On the 10th day, Kessler went to retrieve Timber, but the cage Timber was supposed to be in was housing a different animal. Where was Timber?
Timber was dead.
Failing to check records about Timber, a shelter technician accidentally euthanized the dog.
The shelter refuses to identify the worker who made this awful error, but says the technician has been suspended indefinitely from the task of euthanizing. The indefinite suspension implies the technician could once again be given that task and yes, that could happen because the technician has been suspended from working at the shelter for a grand total of………..one week.
Again, if this was WISN, I’d open up those phone lines right now. Is that a fair penalty for killing a dog? A one-week suspension with the possibility of regaining the job of euthanizing at some point in the future?
Sorry, but the shelter needed to relieve this individual of his/her job immediately and permanently, don’t you think?
One of the readers commenting on the Charlotte Observer website that has the story wrote:
“…heck we don't even put down killers so why put down a dog that bites once.”
Boy, if that isn’t true.
Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
You know those immensely popular dog shows you see on TV? They could be making some dogs sick. ABC has the story and video.
Speaking of inhumanity, is the famed Iditarod in Alaska cruel to dogs? The Iditarod winner.
People. People. Why would you do this?
Recently Martha Stewart lost her dog. Now it has happened to Oprah.
Remember Ratchet, the dog from Iraq that was reunited in America with his solider-owner? Here's a Ratchet update.
Meanwhile, strays are a menace in Iraq.
About those puppies from Petland...
Everybody's giving the Obama's advice on dogs. The latest?
Older dogs return love they're given.
Want to see the world's oldest dog?
Want to see a really naughty dog?
Do those dog wipes really work?
The MPD gets another shelter dog, Dozer.
Meet Olive....
Olive, a year-old collie mix, and her owner, Jane Hollander, keep a brisk pace in Lake Park on Wednesday. Hollander, a musician, has produced a “Doggie Dreams” CD that features her playing the cello and piano with the goal of soothing both canines and people, she said. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel photo: Jack Orton
That's it for this week. I'm already missing Jennifer! HELPPPPPPP!!!
We close The Barking Lot with a CBS story about a very unusual friendship.
Enjoy!
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Mar 14 2009, 08:15 AM
The Barking Lot is a regular weekly feature of this just in…Written by my lovely wife, Jennifer and me. It opens with the weekend dog walking forecast followed by the main blog from dog lover, Jennifer. Then it’s DOGS IN THE NEWS and our close. Enjoy!
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Lots of sunshine. Warmer. High of 48. "C"
SUNDAY: Sunny with some passing clouds. High near 50. "C"
Here’s a special announcement from the barking lot co-blogger, jennifer fischer:
For quite some time, I had been after Kevin to write a weekly dog blog. I knew that certainly I am not the only person obsessed with all things canine, so I thought it would be an interesting feature for his readers.
He refused.
Not because he didn’t think it was a good idea. He, in fact, thought it was a great idea… but only if I would write it. He often tells me, and others looking to write or speak about something, that if you are passionate about a topic it will show in your work. I hope that my weekly Barking Lot blog has done that. I have wanted to touch hearts, educate, entertain, enlighten, and share my passion for dogs. I have also said that for now, the closest thing I will get to OWNING a dog is to write about them.
I know that my life is going to change dramatically in the coming weeks, and I am looking forward to every new adventure our baby is going to bring. I plan on taking an extended period off of work, so that I can focus on our baby and everything he or she will need.
I am also going to take a temporary “leave of absence” from writing the Barking Lot. I am the type of person who wants to give 110% to everything I do, and that includes writing my weekly installment about man’s best friend. Since my attention and focus will be elsewhere I feel it is in my best interests to take some time off from writing, even if it IS just one small, weekly feature.
However, The Barking Lot is NOT going away! My narratives will be temporarily suspended but Kevin’s great features of Dogs In The News and the Dog Walking Forecast will still be available to you every Saturday morning.
So thank you to all the readers of The Barking Lot. I appreciate you reading every week, and thank you for all your support. I look forward to returning to writing my portion when I settle in to my new routine. In the mean time, please continue to read and enjoy.
----Jennifer Fischer
Me? In total control of a dog blog? For an indefinite period of time? Let me get this straight. I get to write about topics like how much I hate that WWE wrestling is pre-empted by that silly Westminster show? Or how spoiled dogs are? Or how they stink when they get wet? Actually, I will try to maintain the type of blog that a large number of readers Jennifer and I are gratified to say has come to enjoy. I will miss my weekly collaborations with Jennifer, preparing for Saturday morning. But if I know my wife, she’s got the blogging bug. I know how much she has enjoyed this experience and she’ll be anxious to return at the right time. Here’s this week’s main blog from yours truly.
A good friend and colleague of mine recently had to make the painful decision of putting her dog down. She referred to her pet as her best friend, thus elevating the animal in a sense to human status.
Depending on your individual faith, you might have a strong belief in an after life. What about pets? And when a cherished animal perishes, how should the extremely delicate question about whether dogs go to heaven be handled when posed by a young child?
Dr. Paul Thigpen of Southern Catholic College tackles this touchy subject in the Catholic Answer.
When that oh so sad time unfortunately arrives for pet owners, and it ultimately does, they should keep these touching words in mind:
IF IT SHOULD BE
If it should be that I grow weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep
Then you must do what must be done,
For this last battle cannot be won.
You will be sad, I understand
Don't let your grief then stay your hand,
For this day more than all the rest,
Your love for me must stand the test.
We've had so many happy years,
What is to come can hold no fears.
You'd not want me to suffer so;
The time has come-please let me go.
Take me where my need they'll tend,
And please stay with me till the end,
Hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time that you will see
The kindness that you did for me,
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I've been saved.
Please do not grieve-it must be you,
Who had this painful thing to do.
We've been so close, we two, these years;
Don't let your heart hold back its tears.
---Anonymous--
It’s now time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week. We wish we didn’t have to, but we do, start with the sad stories.
Martha Stewart lost her adopted dog in an explosion at a Pennsylvania kennel.
Madison police are forced to taser a pit bull.
Here’s the latest on Michael Tessmer, accused of kicking a dog to death in front of his family.
The Iditarod continues in Alaska. This story has links to comprehensive coverage of this grueling event.
The Wall Street Journal poses a fascinating question about those sled dogs.
Pet first aid can save a life.
We know that a dog is man’s best friend but what was man’s first friend?
In Wausau, there’s a call to change the city’s two-dog limit.
ABC News wants to hear from you. What’s your suggestion to name the Obama family dog?
The Christian Science Monitor reports that soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq are violating regulations when adopting dogs.
And I share this e-mail I received from SPCA International:
Dear Friends,
U.S. troops and their beloved animals need your help today! https://baghdadpups.com/donation/contribute.php?source=DONATE&origin=0310email Our fundraising efforts have been severely hurt by the troubled economy while requests for help have continued to rise as President Obama reduces troop levels in Iraq.
Many soldiers? dogs are waiting for help and we must send rescue experts to Iraq this month to save them. If we aren’t able to raise the funds necessary, the U.S. soldiers’ dogs pictured to the right will perish. Please help us fulfill a U.S. soldier’s wish by making a contribution of $10, $25, $50 or more, right now. https://baghdadpups.com/donation/contribute.php?source=DONATE&origin=0310email
With your help, we will fly five rescue experts into Iraq this month to save Moses, Claymore, Pachino, Javelin and many more. Please help today. https://baghdadpups.com/donation/contribute.php?source=DONATE&origin=0310email
For the animals,
James D. Winston http://www.spca.com/images/site/email_jdsig.gif
JD Winston
Executive Director
SPCA International
That's it for this week. Thanks for stopping by. We always like to end with a nice video. Enjoy this local TV news story:
Save-a-Vet helps spare the life of a dog that protected some of Washington’s most important people.
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Mar 7 2009, 06:33 AM
The Barking Lot is a regular weekly feature of this just in…Written by my lovely wife, Jennifer and me. It opens with the weekend dog walking forecast followed by the main blog from dog lover, Jennifer. Then it’s DOGS IN THE NEWS and our close. Enjoy!
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Cloudy skies, icy cold rain. "F"
SUNDAY: Rain in the morning, mixed with snow in the afternoon. "F"
These last weeks of pregnancy are bringing all kinds of changes to the Fischer household… What was once a spare bedroom and “catch all” room has quickly morphed into an adorable, Mickey Mouse-themed nursery. The laundry room has been taken over by bottles of Dreft detergent and socks so small they need to be washed in a lingerie bag so that they don’t get lost. I’m looking at the living room fireplace I love in a whole new light, wondering when I need to buy the protective foam edge for when our little bundle starts to crawl.
The fact that I have wanted a dog since the day we said “I do” is the worst kept secret in the blogosphere. But I must admit that in these last weeks of preparation and anticipation for all the crazy wonderful changes that are about to happen, I AM grateful that I don’t have to add “worry about dog-baby relations” to my list of things to do.
I know that there are plenty of couples who become dog owners as a “trial run” for parenthood. That may work for some, but then comes the time when the REAL baby joins the family, and pet parents-turned baby parents have a lot of adjustments to make.
Some people worry about if they should even keep their dog after the baby is born. How can you adopt a dog, take care of it, love it, etc. and then think you should get rid of it because your family is going to expand? To me, that is not being a responsible pet owner or a responsible parent. What happens when the second child is going to come in to your life? Do you get rid of your firstborn? I am in no way comparing the importance of a child to a dog but I am pointing out that once you make a commitment to own a dog you really need to carry that through. (Obviously if you feel your dog would be a true DANGER to your newborn, your infant’s safety is first and foremost. Then again why would you own a dangerous dog to begin with?)
There are many resources to consult about blending dogs and babies successfully in to one family. Dogmanners.com offers straightforward information. Additional tips on introducing your four-legged family member to baby are available from dogsandstorks.com. Closer to home, Aurora Healthcare offers a free class on blending your family.
I am truly looking forward to the day when we get our first family dog, as much for our toddler as for myself. It will be a wonderful experience when we are ready for the next layer of commitment for our family. The seefido.com site has a questions-and-answers section at the bottom of their dogs and babies page:
Q: I'm going to be having a baby soon and I was thinking about getting a puppy so we can all go out on walks together etc. Do you think it's a good idea?
A: No. The new baby will require all of your attention and it will be virtually impossible for you to take care of and train your puppy the correct way. It's also not suggested because puppies are very rowdy and they like playing roughly and it could hurt the baby. The best suggestion is for you to wait until you child grows a little, and then get him or her puppy.
Personally I think the answer was extremely polite and perhaps not emphatic enough. I can’t quite speak from experience yet but I’m sure any parent of a newborn would have answered the question with THIS response:
A: Are you out of your freaking mind???
---Jennifer Fischer
Thanks, Jennifer. Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
As we often say, the news isn't always good. In Madison, the deaths of two dogs have authorities thinking coyotes.
If there's a dog controversy, you can bet it normally involves pit pulls.
Texas is considering a bunch of pet ordinances that the rest of the country might look at as well.
The BBC wants no part of an international dog show.
OK. I promised amazing video for this week's Barking Lot. Here it is.
Zak, hop on in. Way to go, Zak!
A woman gets caught for days in a recycling bin. Naturally, it's the dog's fault.
All the dog in this story wanted to do was get some sun.
A little girl manages to get to Alpine.
Boy, you've got to hand it to Wisconsin. Yes sir! We know how to get rid of, you know, doggie doo-doo. With the sha-poopie, of course!
Meet Muskego's top dog.
And that's it for DOGS IN THE NEWS. We haven't dug into the Barking Lot e-mail bag for awhile, so let's open it up, shall we?
Oh oh. Looks like someone's not too happy.
Ay, caramba! Have you gone loco??!!
Who do you think you are? Some kind of TV weather guy?
I get up one Saturday morning and you call the dog walking forecast an “F.” I go outside. It is muy sunny out.
Aren’t you just more than juuuuuuuuuuuuuuust a tad embarassed? Sun, sun, sun and you give the forecast an “F.”
Esplain yourself.
Juano Malano
Dear Juano Malano,
We take a lot into consideration when we post the dog walking forecast, including the fact a lot of areas are like Franklin without sidewalks meaning Fido has to walk on sometimes icy, slushy, snow covered roads. The sun might be out but it could also be windy and cold. Not the ideal conditions for taking your best friend outdoors.
If it’s any consolation, Juano, as I write this response, I’m dressed really, really funny.
Dear Kev,
Man, me and the rest of the band, being the characters that we are think you are one cool dude. Read you every single week. Love it, man. But we’ve got a serious question.
Would it hurt, Kevvie boy if once, just one time you or Jennifer post something about cats? That would be really hip.
It is your blog after all and as I always like to say, “Free speech, baby!” But how about it, Kev? Whatever you decide, your blog is still simply to die for!
Josie and the Pussycats
Dear Josie,
This is strictly a dog blog, but just for you, because you’ve been so loyal and I certainly wouldn’t want you to go off and do something regrettable, I give you this. Call it CATS IN THE NEWS.
Enjoy.
KEVIN FISCHER,
WE ARE SHOCKED, SHOCKED WE TELL YOU! HOW CAN A MAN AS ASTUTE AND WORLDY AS YOU WITH SUCH AN INCREDIBLY SEXY DIMPLE HAVE NO SHAME, NO HEART, NO COMPASSION!
CAN'T YOU SEE WHAT YOU ARE DOING TO THAT POOR WIFE OF YOURS? ARE YOU THAT COLD AND CALLOUS? ARE YOU THAT MEAN AND CRUEL?
MAY GOD HAVE MERCY ON YOUR PITIFUL SOUL!
SIGNED,
ALL OF JENNIFER'S FRIENDS WHO OWN DOGS AND SO WHAT IF WE CARE MORE ABOUT THEM THAN WE DO OUR OWN HUSBANDS!
Dear Jennifer's friends,
I must admit you are right. I also refuse to let Jennifer have a 52" plasma flat screen TV. Maybe you could talk to her about ways to convince me to change my mind??
Dear Kevin,
Even though you haven't blogged about it all that much, I understand a baby is on the way. How will that impact your Barking Lot blog?
Signed,
MyCommunityNOW Editor Mark Maley
Gee, Mark. I love you too, man.
No, we haven't blogged about it all that much. Truth is, we believe that most people don't really care if Jennifer has had cravings, etc.
As for your question, Mark, for now, we'll take it under advisement and have a definite answer in next week's Barking Lot.
Readers, I fully understand the wonderful happiness a pet can bring. That joy makes the day an owner must say farewell to a pet companion almost unbearable. Within the past year, my freinds, Franklin alderman Steve Olson and Shari Hanneman of Citizens for a Safe Wisconsin have had to let go of pet dogs. This week, my co-worker in Senator Mary Lazich's office, Tricia Sieg said goodbye to her beloved Reilly. I don't think it's overstating it that a pet after a certain amount of time becomes one of the family. So enjoy them for as much as you can because unfortunately, their time with us is much too short.
Thank you for joining us again and we close, as we try to do every week with a video that you will enjoy. This one features Chips, the flying sheepdog.
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Feb 21 2009, 06:00 AM
The Barking Lot is a regular weekly feature of this just in…Written by my lovely wife, Jennifer and me. It opens with the weekend dog walking forecast followed by the main blog from dog lover, Jennifer. Then it’s DOGS IN THE NEWS and our close. Enjoy!
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Winter storm warning in effect. Snow, 3-5 inches. "F" .
SUNDAY: Decreasing clouds, windy and cold and all that snow and ice on the ground. Horrible for dog walking. "F"
I was only two years old when I got my first dog, Sugar. Needless to say I had no opinion in the breed, much less in how to raise this new puppy. All my parents knew was that they wanted me to grow up with a four-legged companion. Sugar was indeed, that perfect companion, and so began my love for dogs.
There are pictures of me, diapered and “Nuk” in mouth, sharing my sandbox and play area with Sugar. The family photo album includes many other pictures of us through the years… Sugar with some ridiculous costume that I made her wear, Sugar and I asleep together on the couch or in my bed, Sugar sitting up and begging for a treat I was holding over her head.
All we knew in my family about raising a dog was that it needed to be housebroken, have regular veterinary check ups, and be loved unconditionally. Seemed pretty easy to us. There was not a PSYCHOLOGY behind raising a dog; it was just something that you did. And it included an occasional slap on the rump if the dog was particularly naughty. In our house, the food and water dishes were always full; none of this twice-daily feeding for our pets. Somehow, miraculously, Sugar and all our subsequent pets lived long, happy, food-and-love-filled lives.
But now, we are told we need to demonstrate Alpha behavior over our dogs. No longer is it good enough to praise your dog when it learns a new trick. You must be in control at all times or risk owning a mal-adjusted, anti-social mutt that growls at you. We NEVER and I mean NEVER had a behavior problem with Sugar. She was a sweet, gentle soul that just wanted to be petted, loved, and fed. But if she had turned out to be a misfit, it would have been OUR fault as irresponsible owners who didn’t take on the role of alpha dog.
I know, and have known, many dog owners in my life. Some of these owners merely regard their pet as just that… a pet. A dog, a companion, but not what they would consider part of the FAMILY with whom they would share their plate of food. Some of these owners are on the opposite end of that spectrum… who regard their dog as their CHILD and literally dress them up on a regular basis and talk to them in baby talk.
I prefer something in between these two extremes. I have always felt that a dog IS a member of the family. As such, they should receive plenty of love and attention, as well as have all their nutritional and medical needs met. If I want my dog to curl up on the couch next to me then that is what I am going to do. If I want to give my dog a treat simply because I got an extra tail wag or hand lick, then by all means my dog is going to get a treat! And I’m sorry but my dog’s water dish is ALWAYS going to be full, he is not going to have to WAIT until I feel it is appropriate to quench his thirst.
I suppose that there are extremely valid reasons for adopting this dog-raising philosophy. I agree that a dog should be a wonderful and loving addition to a family, and that you should never tolerate dangerous behavior in a dog. Certainly that is not why you adopted Fido in the first place.
Somehow I think the dog-raising business has gotten out of hand. I see nothing wrong with raising your dog the “old fashioned way.” It’s like child-rearing these days… now parents need books and classes and videos and 24-hour help lines and support groups to assist them when their child goes astray. We can’t just discipline our child with strong words and grounding; we have to be their FRIEND. Blah, blah, blah. The same is now happening with our pets. We must be psychologists and out-THINK our dog or our entire family will be in turmoil.
If Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, Denise Richards, Daisy Fuentes, Nicolas Cage, Scarlett Johansson, and Hilary Duff need the help of Cesar Millan to rehabilitate their pooch perhaps they should stick to acting. Then again with the list I just mentioned I’m not so sure they’re cut out for that, either.
---Jennifer Fischer
Thanks, Jennifer. Nice job as always.
That means it's now time for........DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made...
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
HEADLINES the past week!
Last week, Jennifer wrote that some smokers finally have found a reason to quit: the health of their pets. The New York Times wrote about the issue this week.
As we often report, the news isn't always good. This week's sad news comes from Hollywood.
Back to good news. Actually, this is great news....honors for dogs from Congress.
Rock'O is a hero. You know why? Rock'O can sniff peanuts.
Patricia and Tom Collins are also heroes.
Pet trends that must die...
Here's some advice from the experts: Don't leave dog training to amateurs.
This one defies description, so here it is.
And finally, why we love dogs. "Why we love cats and dogs" is a PBS "Nature" special this weekend. You can see it on MIlwaukee Public Television Channel 36.3 (Channel 550 on Time Warner) on 2/21 (That's today) at 7:00 am, 1:00 pm , 7:00pm, and 11:00pm.
That's it for this week. Jennifer and I say, thank you, dog lovers!
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Feb 14 2009, 10:45 AM
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Feb 14 2009, 06:00 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Morning snow showers, then partly cloudy skies. Low 30's. "F" .
SUNDAY: Mostly cloudy, cold. Might not hit the freezing mark. "D"
My parents smoked since they were teenagers. Back then, everyone thought it was cool. There wasn’t a lot of information about how addicting nicotine is, how tough it is to quit, and how dangerous it is for your health. Despite the fact that I was raised by two smokers (or in my opinion BECAUSE of it) I have never wanted to smoke, never tried. Although I support smokers’ rights, I personally find it a money-wasting, stupid, and disgusting habit.
For many years I begged my parents to quit. I tried everything from the “If you really love me” line to cold hard facts about how much their health would improve if they would quit. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING worked. So eventually I just gave up. But I never thought about asking them to quit for our dogs and cats. If it had occurred to me, I honestly think that would have been an incentive to them. I can’t begin to tell you how spoiled the pets were in our house.
It amazes me how teenagers today actually start smoking, no matter how many PSA’s they have seen, no matter how many health classes they have taken, or despite losing a friend or relative to smoking-related health problems. To me, there is no excuse to start such a ridiculous habit. But for the people who have smoked for many years (I have plenty of friends and relatives to fall in this category) the question is what kind of incentive can you provide to help them kick the habit? Well, do they have pets?
A new study documents researchers looking at the smoking behaviors of people who live with a dog or cat. Results of this study show that pet owners may be more motivated to quit if they knew their habit was harmful to their dog or cat. Veterinarian Marty Becker sites examples of how secondhand smoke can be toxic for house pets.
I’m not an expert on this topic but it seems to follow a logical pattern… If secondhand smoke is hazardous to humans, why wouldn’t our pets fall under the same perils sharing a house with smokers?
Personally, I feel that ANY reason or incentive to get a smoker to quit is a good one. I know different people respond to different reasoning tactics. Some do it for the love of another person. Some do it because of a personal health scare, such as a heart attack. I’m sure that with the rising cost of a pack or carton of cigarettes, some are financially motivated. So if Fido wags his tail at you, and you think he’s saying “Please Mom, put out that stinky thing so I don’t get sick” why shouldn’t you listen?
---Jennifer Fischer
Thanks, Jennifer. When my wife finishes her contribution, that means it's my turn. Time once again for DOGS IN THE NEWS. Say it along with me, folks....canines that made headlines the previous week.
Of course, the big doggie news of the week was all about Stump who proved to be inspirational. Dog show-related work isn't over yet.
Some good news out of the Michael Vick controversy.
It sounded like an attempt at a world's record. It wasn't, and it's not funny. Take a look.
This dog exhibit needs help.
So Chloe, what are you doing this weekend?
Brian Justice will paint your dog.
Door County has goats on a roof. Minot, North Dakota has, well, you guessed it...
That's it for this week. No more dog shows. No new dog movies to promote. So we leave you with this very sensitive public service announcement:
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Feb 7 2009, 06:30 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST : We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Some early morning fog and drizzle. "F" in the morning. But then becoming partly cloudy and warm with a high near 50. "B" the remainder of the day.
SUNDAY: Partly cloudy, an above average high of 40. "B"
Let’s go dog shopping! Or, at least pretend to. Have you ever played the “What would I do if I won the lottery?” I do something similar; I play “What kind of puppy will I get some day?” I follow that up with a round of “What will I name my puppy?” It’s fun and about the closest thing I will get to four paws in the house for awhile.
So… you’re at the dog shelter (Remember, this is my game, and my rules are you get your dog from a shelter, not a breeder). Cage after cage, you peruse the aisles of furry faces, eyes looking longing at you just begging “Please take me home with you.”
You don’t have a specific type of dog in mind; you just want to provide a good home to a dog that needs one. Some of your choices are:
OK, narrow it down to two, choosing one black dog and one golden dog from the above photos.
Now pick just one of your remaining two.
Which one did you choose?
Wait.
Let me guess.
You picked........
A GOLDEN DOG.
If you did, you followed a very common pattern with dog adoptions, and have just given in to what some people call “Black Dog Syndrome.” Many shelter workers believe that there is a true problem with black dog bias.
You may or may not believe this theory but this website is devoted to showcasing black dogs and encouraging people to adopt responsibly. Other stories support the black dog bias idea, such as the experience Pamela Gregg had with Molly.
I know that there isn’t much scientific data supporting this theory, but it does make me stop and think, and I will be more aware of not overlooking a black dog that is up for adoption when the time comes to add another member to our family.
---Jennifer Fischer
Thanks, Jennifer! What an interesting topic! You know, I was thinking about running out and getting a dog, but now I'm torn. Light color or black? I guess I'll just have to think about this a bit longer.
It's time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
In last week's edition of The Barking Lot, Jennifer wrote about pit bulls. The breed is cauisng so many problems that many locales are taking action, including outright bans. One expert thinks this type of dog can be rehabilitated.
There's also a twist in the story about Faith we told you about last week.
Meet Palmer Neuhaus who has a very difficult job. For many dogs, Neuhaus is the last step before being put down.
When an arson dog dies, he's not easily replaced.
Here's a story about a rare detective who specializes in finding lost dogs.
Animals assisting autistic children is quite complicated, So how does an autistic child communicate with a dog?
Here in Franklin, we had plenty of dog news. Megan returns home, and Alderman Steve Taylor pushes a dog leash mandate.
Mayday is back on the job. And the bedbugs won't bite as long as Hershey is around.
Man bites dog? Nahhh. This story's a lot better.
And don't laugh at dogs playing poker. That's some pretty serious artwork.
Sorry, dog lovers, but we've come to the end of this week's Barking Lot. Thanks so much for dropping by. Don't forget the Westminster Dog Show Monday and Tuesday. While you're watching, keep an eye out for the brand new breed in the competition...
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Jan 31 2009, 09:20 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST : We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Some morning sun. Snow showers and flurries. Possibly some freezing drizzle. Temps slightly above normal. "D"
SUNDAY: Partly cloudy, warmer. "D"
I think it is clear to anyone who reads this blog that I LOVE dogs. Big ones, tiny ones, mutts and purebreds. I have a healthy respect for dogs as well. I never pet a dog until I ask the owner if it is OK. Then I go to the dog’s level, put my hand out for it to sniff me and then proceed to pet, usually the back so that it doesn’t think I’m lunging for its face. While I generally am not afraid of dogs I do realize that a strange dog is just that: strange until we get to know each other.
I’ve only met one Pit Bull in my life. He belonged to the in-laws of a friend. The first time I met this dog, I must admit I was uneasy around him. He did nothing to make me think he was going to push me to the ground and rip my face off. But just KNOWING his breed raised MY hackles. This dog’s disposition was actually “wimpy” to me. He stayed by his owners or other people he knew, begging for head rubs. He just had to be in the room where everyone was, wanting to be the center of attention. He was so clingy I actually found him to be annoying. But on top of the general annoyance of a dog who wouldn’t leave people alone, there was the fact that he was a Pit Bull. It just made me nervous. I thought to myself, “If I don’t pet this dog or show him the attention he wants is he going to go for my jugular?”
As with any controversy, there are two sides to the Pit Bull debate. For every person who fears this breed you can find a Pit Bull owner who can’t sing their praises loud enough. While I generally want government to stay out of my life and let me use the brains God gave me to make my own decisions on my own free will, there are times I feel a bit of extra legislation can help society remain safe and orderly. This brings me to the topic of breed-specific bans.
I supposed you can find at least one attack story for every breed registered with the American Kennel Club. But tell me… when is the last time you heard about a vicious attack on a person or another animal by say, a Schnauzer, miniature Poodle, or Shih Tzu? It’s much easier to site instances of Pit Bull attacks. On January 25th of this year a woman in Indianapolis was mauled by two of these dogs. It is a miracle she survived.
The Humane Society of the United States, in part of its statement against breed-specific bans tells us: “There are over 4.5 million dog bites each year. This is an estimate as there is no central reporting agency for dog bites, thus breed and other information is not captured. Out of the millions of bites, about 10-20 are fatal each year. While certainly tragic, it represents a very small number statistically and should not be considered as a basis for sweeping legislative action.”
That’s interesting because a brief internet search led me to the following information… From DogsBite.org:
2008 U.S. dog bite fatalities
Information gathered by DogsBite.org is verifiable through Internet archive services and our Fatality Citations section, which contains a copy of each article cited.
2008 statistics
¨ 23 U.S. fatal dog attacks occurred in 2008. Pit bull type dogs were responsible for 65% (15). Pit bulls make up approximately 2-9% of the U.S. dog population.
¨ In 2008, only one U.S. citizen over the age of 3 was killed by a breed other than a pit bull. 74-year old Lorraine May was fatally mauled by her two dogs: an Australian shepherd-mix and a golden retriever-mix.
¨ 70% of the attacks occurred to children (11 years and under) and 30% occurred to adults (21 years and older). Of the children, half (8) occurred to ages 1 and younger.
¨ 39% of fatal attacks in 2008 involved multiple dogs; 9% involved chained dogs.
¨ 78% of the attacks occurred on owner property and 22% off owner property. All off property attacks (5) that resulted in death were attributed to pit bulls.
¨ 61% of the victims were male; 39% of the victims were female. Of the male victims, over half (8) were 3 years and younger.
¨ In at least three fatal attacks, a grandmother was watching a child aged 2 and younger. Two of these attacks occurred in Las Vegas; both involved pet pit bulls.
Hawaii is currently considering prohibiting ownership of this breed. Now, I understand that our current administrations, local and national, have much higher priorities than if Pitt Bulls should be legislated. But as I stated before, I feel that if legislation can help prevent dog mauling tragedies I fully support it. Don’t whine, “There are no bad dogs, only bad owners.” There are both, and BOTH should be locked up.
---Jennifer Fischer
Thanks, Jennifer.
My turn. Time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
Dog bites are no fun, but they are avoidable. So are dog germs.
Nose cancer is rare in dogs. But Max contracted the disease, after sniffing cocaine.
Rufus battles back.
Cloned dogs may look the same, but...
Two weeks ago, Jennifer wrote about foolish ordinances designed to curb dog barking. Phoenix is trying dog-noise mediation.
Jennifer blogged in a previous Barking Lot about Jana Kohl and her amazing dog story. Kohl's book got a review this week in the Christian Science Monitor. CSM also reviewed, "Animals Make Us Human."
How about this idea to raise money for animal shelters?
Dogs in Oregon this weekend are real gourmets.
These dogs don't look agile, but they are.
New TV show will teach old dogs new tricks.
Stetson is a good reason to watch the upcoming Westminster dog show.
Which Super Bowl team has the most pets named in its honor?
That's it for this week. Don't forget, on Super Bowl Sunday, it's the 5th edition of the Puppy Bowl on Animal Planet.
Here's a preview...
Like any important bowl, there are referees, and the one for the Puppy Bowl definitely has some perks...
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Jan 24 2009, 06:00 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Dry, partly cloudy, but very cold. A high of 10. "F"
SUNDAY: Mostly cloudy, cold. A high of 13. "F"
When I hear the term “animal rights” or “animal rights groups” I usually think of PETA members marching around in fake fur covered in red paint or stuffing themselves in cages not wearing any clothes, in efforts to bring attention to the fur industry. Years ago, I worked for the local chapter of the March of Dimes. We would get calls from people who accused us of being animal killers. Apparently decades ago, there was a research scientist who worked for the March of Dimes who did some cruel experiments on kittens in the name of saving babies’ lives. Obviously these techniques are not used in March of Dimes research today. But there still are people who connect the events of long ago to the group of today.
There are times, however, that I read about animal advocacy groups and their projects and programs and think, “Now THAT makes sense.” A “No-Kill” shelter policy is one of those times. New York City is working on becoming a “No-Kill” city by 2015. (That means not euthanizing cats & dogs in shelters. Goodness knows they will never have a murder rate of zero!)
I fully support any shelter that does not euthanize an adoptable animal. Of course the key word is ADOPTABLE. There are animals surrendered with such severe behavioral issues or health issues that it is not feasible to adopt them out to another family. The other issue at hand is feral cats.
They pose many unique challenges and are generally not considered adoptable because they are generations of “wild” cats who have never socialized with humans.
The Wisconsin Human Society will not euthanize any animal that has been placed up for adoption. Again there are issues of health & socialization problems but if the animal is suitable for adoption, it will remain at the shelter until an appropriate home is found.
REASONABLE opponents of a no-kill policy could argue about having enough room for all these animals and of course there is the cost associated with keeping these animals for sometimes lengthy stays. Then there are the loonies at PETA who seem to think that KILLING some strays is actually MORE humane. HUH?
Personally, I will continue to support the no-kill shelters. I applaud their efforts in not euthanizing perfectly adoptable animals.
---Jennifer Fischer
Thank you, Jennifer for that timely piece. Every week, following the dog walking forecast and Jennifer's opening blog, Jennifer is kind enough to allow me to bring you DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
Our neighbor to the south, Illinois is taking a serious loook at puppy mill legislation.
Here's a bill that's a new one on me. The state of Washington is considering legislation to allow you to be buried with your pets.
In New Mexico, female inmates are training dogs to be obedient.
You've heard of the dog ate my homeowrk? How about the dog bit my granddaughter...
And finally, what is the most popular dog in America?
That's it for this week. Thanks again, dog lovers for checking in. We close with a preview of some doggone good TV coming soon.
Next Saturday, the cable channel Animal Planet broadcasts one of the biggest events in canine competition. From the AP website:
"Man's best friends are putting their best paws forward for the cameras and legions of fans as they vie for 'Best In Show' and the title of National Champion at 'The Planet's' greatest dog show. Coats trimmed, nails filed and gaits perfected, top dogs from around the country and the world come together to compete in one of America's most prestigious dog shows. The eighth annual AKC/Eukanuba National Championship will air on Saturday, Jan. 31, at 8 PM e/p, on Animal Planet.
More than 2,400 dogs headed to Long Beach, California in December to compete for a total of $225,000 in cash prizes. The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship is the largest prize money dog show in the world, bestowing a $50,000 cash prize to the dog crowned National Champion.
Hosted by Bob Goen, this high-profile dog show features invitees from the country's top 25 dogs in each AKC-recognized breed. Invitations to dogs are based on breed points accumulated over a set period. In addition, every dog awarded Best in Show at a licensed or member AKC all-breed dog show during the same time period was extended an automatic invitation to enter the competition. Dog show insider Lee Arnold and American Kennel Club judge Edd Bivin also assist with the play-by-play."
Here's a sneak peek at one of the honorees:
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Jan 17 2009, 09:20 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Snow, possibly 1-2 inches. seasonal temperatures. "F"
SUNDAY: Snow showers. Colder than Saturday. "F"
“OK we know you’re in there… Come out with your paws up and your tail between your legs!!! That’s it… nice and slow… put the squeaky toy down and no one will get hurt.”
“But officer, I can explain! Max was just doing his job! He was protecting our family! He heard a strange noise in the garage and wanted to alert us.”
“Mister, you have the RIGHT to remain silent. Your dog, on the other hand, is ORDERED to remain silent. If Max disobeys this order he will be sentenced to debarking.”
Sound as far-fetched as a Frisbee on a day with 45 MPH winds? Maybe not. Those Loony Toon bureaucrats in California with nothing better to do are going to start enforcing a new Anti-Nuisance Ordinance beginning next month. Is your dog barking too much ACCORDING TO YOUR NEIGHBORS? Get ready to fork over up to $500 for each “violation.”
Never mind that there are already laws on the books in Riverside County that address this issue. Let’s take the resources to create and enforce NEW legislation that by comparison won’t necessarily change the dog’s behavior, it will only cost its owner more money. Or could it change the dog’s behavior? From a CBS News article:
“Remedies might include obedience training, containing the dog within an enclosed space, such as a garage, restricting the amount of time the animal is allowed outside -- or debarking the dog so it doesn't vocalize beyond a whisper.” OK, so my neighbor thinks my dog barks too much… let me just take it to the vet to have it’s vocal cords ripped out. There’s a great solution! You can read the entire article here.
Of course there are no statistics offered as to how much this new system will cost the taxpayers. It’s just one more example of government stepping in and over-regulating when it is not necessary.
In the City of Milwaukee, the Department of Neighborhood Services follows this process:
BARKING DOGS OR OTHER ANIMAL NOISES
All animal noise complaints should be referred to the Department of Neighborhood Services (DNS). A letter stating the animal's address, the complainant's name, address and phone number and a general description of the problem must be sent to DNS–Nuisance and Environmental Health Division, 4001 S. 6th St., Milwaukee, WI 53221. After the DNS verifies both addresses, a warning letter will be typed. The inspector will attempt to personally serve the letter on the animal owner along with literature and a copy of the applicable ordinance. If the inspector cannot make contact after a few tries, the letter will be mailed to the animal owner's home. The complainant will then be sent a follow-up letter informing he/she of what was sent to the animal owner along with a petition for commencement of prosecution. If the noise problem continues after the complainant receives the petition, the complainant must document dates and times that it is occurring and return it to DNS. He/she should also try to get at least one person from another household, who is bothered by the noise, to sign the petition. Once DNS receives the petition a citation will be issued. A CITATION WILL NOT BE ISSUED UNLESS THE COMPLAINANT IS WILLING TO APPEAR IN THE CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE. To make further complaints call DNS at 286-2268.
Check out the sentence at the bottom in CAPITAL LETTERS. It seems to be perfectly reasonable to me to expect the person complaining about my dog to show up at the hearing. I could have a neighbor who dislikes dogs on principal. The fool could just be a “cat person.” Suddenly Neighbor Of The Year is calling Animal Services once a week saying that Max is at it again, and I’m trying to figure out if I should take the fine out of his Doggy Treat fund.
It must be nice for California to have so much time & money on its hands that they can revise a way to regulate dog barking. It’s a good thing they’ve solved all the issues for homeless and unemployed persons, and that immigration is as tight as a Master Lock.
---Jennifer Fischer
Thanks, Jennifer. As far-fetched as a Frisbee on a day with 45 MPH winds? I like it.
Time once again for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
Let's start off with a really nice, warm, fuzzy story. Tanker is headed for fame and a starring role in movie, despite having just two legs.
More good news......Michou, an abandoned miniature poodle is recovering. And Java is safe and sound, too.
Dear Mr. President: Pick a mutt. The experts say, take your time, but the choice is down to two breeds. And how much will that dog cost?
Jennifer has written about our neighbor, George and his great dog, Mickey who has been spotted this winter wearing sweaters. If George tries that in Britain, he could go to jail.
We all know that dogs eat some weird things. Have you ever heard of this?
Who knew that besides a mother, father, spouse, and offspring that dogs would also be responsible for an award-winning acting effort.
That's it for this week. Jennifer and I thank all of you dog lovers and just plain This Just In patrons for stopping by. We close with news of yet another dog flick that just opened this weekend in theaters. Here's the trailer for "Hotel for Dogs."
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Jan 10 2009, 10:06 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST : We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Light snow this morning. Otherwise, cloudy skies. Snow covered roads and sidewalks. "F"
SUNDAY: Some snow showers. Otherwise, mostly cloudy. "F"
Time is on my side for February 2009. Usually on Monday evenings in the Fischer household it is guaranteed that ONE member of the family will be yelling and screaming at the TV from September to December. But I have no worries that NFL broadcasting will interfere with a program I faithfully watch when it airs Monday February 9th and continues Tuesday February 10th… Of course I am talking about the Westminster Kennel Club annual Dog Show. This is one competition that I cheer and clap and holler for… especially last year when Uno one, the very first beagle to win Best In Show. That is, ahem, truly an UNDERDOG winning!
We know the state of California can be trailblazing when it comes to drafting and/or enacting new legislation. Many times the law is loopy, strange, nutty, downright crazy. That’s the Golden State for you. So it did not surprise me to read an article about PETA in the LA Times. Get this: PETA wants the USA Network to stop airing the Westminster Kennel Club’s annual show.
I know I have written many times that I personally favor adopting a mixed breed (my favorite term is, and always will be, “mutt”) over a pedigree. That is just my feeling and I would never criticize people for purchasing and owning a pedigree. Pedigree dogs are bred for qualities and characteristics, and there is fascinating history behind the many reasons why they have evolved into the standards of today. The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was established in 1887 with a history as proud as the breeds of dogs it showcases.
The LA Times suspected its readers “would take issue with PETA's premise: that breeding dogs for the show ring locks in genetic defects that, it argues, plague ‘as many as one in four purebred dogs ... with a serious genetic problem.’” Well, apparently they were wrong. As of today, 96% of voters in a poll do NOT agree that the USA Network should cancel showing the WKC Dog Show. I am proud to say I am part of that 96%.
I honestly don’t know where PETA gets these ridiculous ideas. I can just see a bunch of them clad in organic cotton, wearing their vegan shoes… eating a bowl of sprouts and beans, drinking water they collected in rain barrels in the back of their building… sitting on recycled cardboard-based furniture… discussing what they can whine & cry about next in the world of animal abuse… Suddenly one brain child declares that nationally televised dog shows are the root of all evil and must be stopped. In the meantime, two blocks away from their headquarters in Norfolk, Virginia, an elderly woman is hoarding 125 cats in her studio apartment. But let’s get that nasty dog show off the USA Network and all will be right in the animal world!
Thanks but I will be sitting on my couch the evening of February 9th cheering for my favorite breed. This will, of course, be after I finish my dinner of beef, or chicken, or even fish… Drinking a glass of COW’S MILK to support my growing baby, and maybe having a piece of chocolate for dessert that isn’t wrapped in an organic wrapper with a picture of a panda bear and facts about the dying rainforests.
PETA: People Eating Tasty Animals… That’s MY version of the acronym.
GO WESTMINSTER!
---Jennifer Fischer
Thanks, Jennifer! Take the Westminster show off the air? That would be a sacrilege, or at least Communistic.Leave it to the moonbats. Oh, and I DO NOT yell and scream at the TV, unless it's MSNBC.
Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
As we've written in the past, the news isn't always good.
Tanya Martin deserves to be punished (Read some of the comemnts that follow. Not much sympathy for this woman).
Thank goodness Lou Beddow's neighbor noticed he hadn't been walking his dog.
Here's the story of MissyToo and Mira, cloned dogs. Why don't they look alike?
Back in October, Jennifer blogged about proposed legislation in California that mandated the spaying and neutering of pets. Jennifer ended her blog writing, "I wonder what California will try to legislate next… how many times a day a dog can bark?" Well, guess what?
We've also referenced several articles about the impact the tough economy has had on pet owners. Here's a story with a different outlook and perspective: The sacrifices dedicated owners are willing to make to keep their pets. Of course, you can always splurge on your pet in many ways. Just make sure that chew toy is safe.
And finally, an effort is underway to return red dogs to proud hunting status.
That's it for this week. Thank you dog lovers, one and all! In keeping with the theme of this week's entry, let's review last year's Westminster Dog Show where history was made...
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Jan 3 2009, 09:40 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST : We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Warmer with some early morning sun will give way to clouds, then freezing rain later in the day (around 6 p.m.) that could change to a mix of rain and snow late tonight. The National Weather Service says, "PAVEMENT TEMPERATURES WILL BE SLOWER TO WARM AND ARE LIKELY TO ICE UP. ICE ACCUMULATIONS OF .10 OF AN INCH ARE NOT EXPECTED TO CAUSE PROBLEMS WITH RESPECT TO TREES AND POWER LINES... BUT SHOULD CAUSE WIDESPREAD ICY CONDITIONS ON AREA ROADS AND SIDEWALKS." Not good, but better than Sunday, because you'll have dry dog-walking opportunities most of the day before the precipitation falls. "D"
SUNDAY: A wintry mix. You'll wake up to rain, sleet, and snow. "F"
Ask any pet owner and they will tell you of course the toughest part of it all is “the end.” When it is time to say goodbye to a furry part of the family that has made you laugh, greeted you at the door, and more than likely shared a table scrap or two with you.
I was in fifth grade when my pet rabbit died, and fortunately for me, Mother Nature took Thumper on her own. There was no need for vet-assisted euthanasia. I didn’t need to deal with those issues until I was in college, with my two dogs and cat. Needless to say no one in our family wanted to have to make the final decision as to when they should be taken to the vet to be “put to sleep.” But in all three cases it was very obvious when the time came. They certainly can’t tell you in words what they want but when you look in their eyes, you know.
The most-debated topic Kevin and I have about getting a dog is that they are with you for such a relatively short time and the good-bye is so painful that it makes him think twice about the whole thing. I, of course, feel that the last days of heartbreak are outweighed by the many years of love and joy. (I feel that if you applied this same theory to the rest of your life you would never love another human for the chance of heartbreak and loss years later.)
Recently a dear lady I know had to have the family Golden Retriever put down after a long battle with cancer. He was a very special dog to the family, deeply loved by all, especially her children. I don’t know how she and her husband handled the situation with them. I am guessing that she was kind and gentle in her explanations and let each child deal with it in the way they needed to, whether that was saying goodbye privately or being at the vet’s side when the dog was put down.
As we are getting ready to bring a new, precious life into this world, Kevin and I talk about lots of hopes, dreams, and plans for our baby. While he’s talking about a happy healthy baby that will someday earn a full scholarship to the University of Hawaii, I’m dreaming about the day we bring a fat, fuzzy puppy home and say, “She’s all yours!” But I do wonder how parents deal with the situation of young children learning about the death of a family pet.
Perhaps this article can offer some insight and helpful ideas when you are faced with a similar situation as a parent. Another resource offers thoughts on how you will know it is “time” and coping with pet loss.
To date, one of the most difficult things I have ever done is to be with each of my pets during their final moments. I held each one of them in my arms as the vet administered the shot that would bring them peace. When I got home I could still hear the echoes of their paws on the floor, the clanking of their tags on their collars. I would dream about them. It would take me a long time to get over the experience. Yet when the time came again, there I was. I felt it was the very least I could do for a companion that had given me so much. I wish I would have had this poem when I still owned Sugar, Skippy, and Tommy. But now that I know about it, it will have a prominent place in our future dog’s life… perhaps hanging above her own special doggy bed. I think it is a lovely tribute to our four-legged friends.
---Jennifer Fischer
Thank you once again, Jennifer. For newcomers to this blog, we always open with the dog-walking forecast, followed by Jennifer's main blog. Then it's my turn, with DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the previous week.
In Florida, Coco digs up dead baby.
White House dogs get wary, driver arrested.
Here's a picture of Murphy who was beaten.
Happy ending: Murphy is getting better and had a special honor this week.
We've blogged quite often about dogs in the movies. In "Marley and Me," as many as 22 dogs are used to portray the lead character. It begs the question: Should dog actors be allowed to go out on strike?
And here's a leftover from 2008, an article that made the news before Jennifer and I started our dog blog, the story of Yeppa and Harriet.
That's it for our inaugural installment of The Barking Lot for 2009. Last week, we featured a piece from the Wisconsin Division of Tourism about traveling with your pooch. We close this week with news that will have you shaking your head, wondering if certain pet travel is worth it.
Watch.
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Dec 27 2008, 08:55 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST : We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Rain, heavy at times, much warmer. "D"
SUNDAY: Windy and colder, snow. "F"
Kevin has given this weekend’s dog walking forecast a “D.” Great if you want to walk Fido today but you’ll have to actually FIND him in all this fog! Maybe a little flasher on his collar today is in order.
Today’s warm temperatures are nothing but a short and welcome break from the bone-chilling averages that we should be used to by now in Wisconsin. So let’s not get too enthused about a snow-free rest of the winter dog walking season.
I’ve mentioned Mickey many times in my blog, a precious Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier in our neighborhood. Her owner George puts a purple sweater on her when the temperature dips but she does not wear boots. (She does, however, have dryer-warmed towels waiting for her upon her return.) George takes her about three blocks to stretch her legs and do her “doggy duty.” Then it’s home to hot towels and probably a hot beverage for him! He is also dressed appropriately in hunter orange polar-weight pants and jacket. But just looking at the twosome makes ME shiver from the warmth of my home.
I have vowed that our future dog will have the run of the back yard but will NOT become accustomed to twice-daily walks in all sorts of weather. I don’t walk MYSELF in this, I’m not waiting for my future Remy to decide what just the right spot is when it’s ten degrees below zero.
The Dog Lady from the Chicago Sun Times offers us reassurance for the sanity of walking in all weather, and some tips on appropriate time limits for this time of year.
So enjoy the mild temperatures today but remember, you and Fido will probably need to bundle up until our June thaw.
----Jennifer Fischer
Thanks again, Jennifer. I'm not sure I totally agree with the Sun Times' Dog Lady. That's cutting it close. Look at question #8 for a chart on how long humans can stay outside when temps are cold and winds are howling.
Time once again for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
Milwaukee Magazine examines puppy mills.
There's controversy in Texas over the shooting of wild dogs.
If the economy gets too tough, would you give up your dog? Many people are.
Meet Dexter, an Iraq war hero.
Bentley makes it home for Christmas, and that wasn't easy.
Would a dog be better than Rod Blagojevich?
Is your dog a ham? That's not unusual.
Here's some advice from the state tourism folks on traveling with your dog.
Want more advice? How about getting your dog ready for holiday parties?
Is there advice on how to keep your dog from being a kleptomaniac?
There are plenty of reviews out about the hot movie, Marley and Me. Guess how many dogs it took to make the film?
This is our last Barking Lot for 2008. Jennifer and I have enjoyed bringing this special feature to you every Saturday morning and we are extremely gratified by the response. We'll be back in 2009, and close this week's installment with the trailer for Marley and Me.
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Dec 20 2008, 06:00 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST : We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Windy, cloudy, cold with afternoon snow showers. "F"
SUNDAY: Windy and colder, snow showers. "F"
A few weeks ago, Remy and I had a delightful day. We spent a good part of it window shopping at Bayshore Town Center but did make several purchases as well. Williams Sonoma was a must for their pumpkin bread mix. To clean our paws and hands before making it we needed more antibacterial soap from Bath & Bodyworks. Of course there was a stop at the Coach store to see if any new collar styles had arrived for the holidays. We finished at Trader Joes for some locally made biscuits (a kind for Remy and a kind for me.) By then we were famished so a late lunch at Bar Louie rounded out the shopping excursion.
Remy was the perfect companion the entire day. She didn’t tire, drank nicely from her collapsible bowl, and didn’t relieve herself in any place that was inappropriate. People stopped to pet her on several occasions, and she received many compliments about her outstanding behavior and personality. We went home pleasantly pooped and spent the evening making our pumpkin bread.
If the two paragraphs above were made into a skit for viewing, it would start & end in that wavy pattern and have harp music to signify I was dreaming. Of course I don’t own a dog named Remy (though I will some day) and the Bayshore Town Center’s pet policy is “No pets - Only animals in the company of, and trained to assist physically challenged persons are permitted on Bayshore property.” (Will that policy change some day?)
I think it’s a safe assumption that the majority of people who read The Barking Lot are true dog lovers like I am. But how do you feel about sharing your shopping space with four-legged friends who are NOT service dogs, just ordinary house pets whose owners can’t bear to leave them behind while they spend a day shopping?
What if it is not an outdoor town center-style shopping center, but an average enclosed mall like Mayfair? Or why does it even have to be a mall? Maybe you’ve made a quick run to Bed, Bath and Beyond for a new coffee maker. As you are deciding between the Cuisinart and the Krups, you are wondering why your asthma is quickly acting up. You fidget for your inhaler in your purse, and look down to see a fuzzy face staring up at you, tail wagging a happy hello. How about if you’re trying to place an order for filet mignon at the Sendik’s meat counter and Fido next to you “can’t hold it” any more? Suddenly your appetite is gone and it brings new meaning to an overhead speaker announcement of “Clean up in Aisle Four!”
According to the LA Times, more stores are becoming dog-friendly. (At least in California. I haven’t seen that trend here with the exception of stores that cater TO dogs such as Greendale’s locally owned PawPrints Across Your Heart.)
Of course I don’t have to tell you that I am a dog lover, a supporter of all things canine. But I’m not sure I’m too keen on carte blanche entrance to dogs in all shopping venues. (Then again as the stress of Christmas shopping gets to me, I believe I would rather be shoulder-to-shoulder with mutts than with crabby shoppers or “sales associates” who would literally have to look up the definition of customer service in a dictionary before they could actually offer it.)
After asking permission of the owner, I will pet any dog I meet. However, I understand there are many people out there who don’t feel the same urge to do so. Some people are downright afraid of dogs, from a Teacup Yorkie to a St. Bernard. Some people have terrible allergic reactions, including asthma attacks, when they come in contact with dogs. And there is the obvious fact that dogs can’t make a bee-line for the nearest rest room when nature calls. As well-trained as they may be, even the best dog can’t help an occasional accident.
So, while I continue to enjoy going to pet-friendly PET stores, I’m going to say “paws down” to the idea of making all stores accommodate our four-legged friends. (Kevin, this might be a CANINE version of your famed Sunday “No No” blog.)
--Jennifer Fischer
Could very well be, Jennifer. It definitely has that theme to it. It is time, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week, and since there was no Barking Lot last Saturday, we just might cover the past two weeks.
We begin with incredibly touching video. Where is the highway hero dog of Chile? We may never know. More from msnbc.com.
A Chicago man faces charges for this.
Remember Jiffy, the dog that was frozen to the sidewalk in Sheboygan? Here's an update. Jiffy also inspired this Letter to the Editor.
Don't you just love a dog hero story? Of course you do! Here's another.......along with video.
Despite his cancer, Clyde is resilient.
Real life Dr. Doolittle's: Most pet owners say they understand those barks and meows.
Do dogs ever get jealous?
How to fight dog poop: reward the scoopers.
A tall bed can be hazardous to your dog's health.
How to keep life comfortable for older dogs.
Of course, there's comfortable and then there's, COMFORTABLE!
Is a robot-pet really the same?
Would a dog ever do this?
In this week's USA WEEKEND, the author of "Marley and Me" shares secrets about the celebrity dog.
We take you now to the annual Reindog Parade in Mt. Evans, Ohio. Here are some photos.
That's it for this week, our final Barking Lot before Christmas. We close with this tidbit. Apparently, at least here in America, the least loved Christmas song is that one where all the dogs bark to Jingle Bells. Oh, there are, by all means worse ones than this. (But White Christmas it ain't).
Woof woof woof, wa-woof woof woof.....oh, for heaven's sake, just click the video (And thank God it only lasts 1:55).
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Dec 6 2008, 09:15 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Windy, blowing snow, cold. "F"
SUNDAY: Sunny but very cold. "F"
You may remember a few months ago about the terrible case in Maryland… A case of mistaken identity where a small town mayor and his family were thought to be part of a drug ring. During an overzealous and unnecessary raid on this man’s family, police officers shot and killed the two family Labradors.
In these crazy times of kindergarteners bringing weapons to class, soccer moms selling street drugs at their children’s’ games and parents prostituting their daughters to pay rent, anything is possible, including a small town mayor being a drug lord. Generally I am extremely supportive of law enforcement. I am grateful to the men and women in blue who put their lives on the line every day so that I may live safely and free from harm.
Tempers and emotions run high during situations where a split second action or hesitation can mean life or death for either the officer or perpetrator of a crime. You don’t need to watch Law and Order or CSI for examples of the battles between officers and criminals. Just turn on your 10 o’clock news. However, not every law enforcement official makes a good decision every time he or she is on duty. Mistakes can be, and are, made.
One example of how criminals attempt to keep police at bay is the use of violent or dangerous dogs, often but not always Pitt Bulls. OK, I know Pitt Bulls have a bad reputation but it’s not without plenty of stories to fuel the debate about this particular breed. Again, I understand if an officer is facing being ripped to shreds by a dog, that officer is more than justified in taking action.
But something I find disturbing is the fact that over the last decade, there have been over 400 dogs killed in the line of duty by Milwaukee police officers. 400 dogs in 10 years… 40 dogs in one year… or at least three dogs per month. I’m not a statistician or a criminal expert but to me, that seems like an extraordinarily and possibly unnecessarily high number.
In 2004, officers shot Bubba, a seven-year-old Lab/Springer Spaniel mix as they were searching a South Side neighborhood for a wanted man they were told had a Pit Bull. Read the details of the case here.
They didn’t find the man, and even if you are not a judge for an American Kennel Club dog show, surely you know the difference between a Pit Bull and a Lab/Springer mix. Based solely on the information from this article, it appears to me that the police were not justified in executing this dog. Even if the dog was baring its teeth after it had been shot the first time… that is the way an injured dog reacts. I’ve known owners bit by their own dogs when they were trying to help it after an injury.
I would be extremely curious to find out the details of the 400+ dog shootings this past decade. I am sure that the majority of them are justified. If my husband was the police officer facing a dangerous dog, I’D be happy to pull the trigger myself. Yet I wonder how many family pets were destroyed because of someone being a bit too eager to do away with a dog.
In our overly litigious society I’m not a big advocate of lawsuits over spilled coffee, fights between neighbors over a fence or tree on property line, or thieves suing the homeowner for an injury they incurred during an attempted robbery of that person’s house.
But if I were in Virginia Viilo’s place, I would probably file a claim too. It will be interesting to see the outcome of the trial. Quite frankly I don’t hold out much hope that the ruling will favor Viilo and Bubba. I think there are times when law enforcement officers should be held accountable for their actions. And I think this is certainly one of them.
---Jennifer Fischer
Thanks, Jennifer! My turn. That means it's time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
The SPCA put out this notice, asking those concerned to sign a petition to stop the inhumane killing of dogs in Iraq.
From the, "Some people shouldn't own pets" category... so please, take some advice from your friends at the state of Wisconsin.
Pet therapy is becoming more popular.
For the person who doesn't have time to take care of the pet...these gizmos.
Don't forget to protect the paws.
A promise is a promise...please pass the ALPO.
Jesus Christ!
We close out this week's entry with a dip into The Barking Lot e-mailbag:
Dear Jennifer and Kevin,
Just had to drop a note, mates, that I love The Barking Lot, I honestly love it.
If not for The Barking Lot, I couldn't even find the door. Why, I couldn't even see the floor, I’d be so sad and blue, if not for you every Saturday morning.This is pure and simple and you must realize that it's coming from my heart and not my head that I honestly love your blog. The first time I read it, I was happy in your sunshine. I grew to love it more each passing week. I guess you could say I'm hopelessly devoted to your blog.
But I have a friendly observation I need to pass along. I couldn’t help but notice, and I can’t imagine why, that you’ve managed the last two weeks to work John Travolta into the blog. I’m not sure if that was intentional but I can’t wait to see if you decide to work John into The Barking Lot for a third straight week.
Sincerely,
Olivia
Dear Olivia,
Gosh. Jennifer and I are blushing. To be honest, there was no intent to highlight John Travolta two consecutive weeks. It just worked out that way. As for incorporating him into our dog blog for a third week in a row, well, I'm just not sure that's possible. But thank you for reading and for that lovely note.
Kevin and Jennifer
That's it for this week. We always try to end with some kicker as they call it in the radio/TV business, a cute or funny story or, in the case of the Barking Lot, a video. Gosh, we're so sorry to disappoint Olivia. Let's see.
Maybe......
She'll like.............
This..........
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Nov 29 2008, 08:40 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Mostly sunny, dry and seasonal. "C"
SUNDAY: Cold and snowy. "F"
“Santa Baby, forgot to mention one little thing… a ring… I don’t mean on the phone…”
That is my FAVORITE line in the Eartha Kitt classic “Santa Baby.” You can NEVER go wrong giving bling as a gift. Repeat to all my male readers: You can NEVER go wrong giving bling as a gift.
I know what everyone is thinking: Even with my life rapidly changing as my April due date approaches, surely the thing I want most for Christmas is fur. (I don’t mean in a coat, Santa Baby.) But you’re WRONG.
Of course I want a dog. Make that dogs… plural. And all in good time we will have them. But I would never ask for, and most certainly never receive, a dog for Christmas.
In the coming weeks you will hear on local news stations and read newspaper articles about the dangers of giving pets as presents. The ridiculous flip side of this is you will probably also hear commercials from pet stores telling you how wonderful it would be if Suzie or Johnny found a puppy under the tree this Christmas.
This SHOULD be a practical, no-brainer kind of decision. But for some people they really think they’re giving the best gift ever by putting a red ribbon around the neck of an adorable puppy and handing it off.
For some practical advice if you’re even THINKING this is a good idea for a friend or family member, read this.
Well, I guess Kevin is REALLY off the hook this year. I’ve just told everyone that giving a puppy as a Christmas gift is even a worse idea than giving a replica of The Christmas Story “Leg Lamp.” So, no dog for me under the tree. And since I already have more bling than I can handle with my beautiful wedding ring, well… But come to think of it I never mentioned that THESE were silly or frivolous.
---Jennifer Fischer
OK, I better make a note of this. On 11/29/08, Jennifer said she has enough bling. I'm so glad Tiffany's has a wonderful return policy.
Time now for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines the past week.
Stray dogs are in danger in Iraq.
The Humane Society is suing retailers and designers over their claims of fake fur.
Controversial film about a German shepherd is released on DVD.
John Travolta brings out his inner dog in the the new Disney film, "Bolt."
Uno is one busy beagle.
Enjoy your retirement, Shiloh!
Want to adopt a dog? Try Kenosha.
And here's a Thanksgiving message from the SPCA:
Give Thanks for the Animals |
|
Dear Friends,
Dogs and cats live simplistically. They expect little and own nothing. They give generously without even knowing it. Sharing time with these amazing companions repeatedly reminds us of how simple, yet enjoyable, life can be.
With another year about to come to an end, and the inherent craziness that seems to come with the holiday season, this is a good time to learn from and cherish dogs and cats. This Thanksgiving we hope you will reach into your heart and remember the kindness animals impart and return their love by donating to help protect animals everywhere. Please, give back to the animals who give us all so much love, comfort and joy.
This year, SPCA International saved many dogs and cats who made a real difference in peoples’ lives. Bandaid was befriended by a soldier in Iraq whose job it was to counsel fellow soldiers struggling with the emotional challenges of war. “I think Bandaid has counseled more than 100 soldiers – and in some ways she has done it more effectively than me,” the soldier explained. “Men and women wrapped their arms around her and got the comfort they needed. What Bandaid did was so simple and invaluable.”
SPCA International has one wish for the New Year and that is to be able to continue to help all animals. Through our programs we can save animals and at the same time, help people by ensuring that these special bonds are allowed to continue.
Give today to make something wonderful happen. The joy in knowing that you helped change the life of animals and people is giving at its best. It is a genuine gift that will never wear out or be forgotten. End the year thankful for the difference you have made.
Thank you for all you do for animals everywhere. Everyone here at SPCA International wishes you and your loved ones a wonderful, joyful Thanksgiving.
Sincerely,
JD Winston
Executive Director
SPCA International
P.S. Spread the word! Please forward this email to your family and freinds. |
|
|
| That's it for this week. To close this week's Barking Lot, back by popular demand, Rowlf at the piano with a very special guest.
|
By Kevin Fischer
Saturday, Nov 22 2008, 08:40 AM
THE WEEKEND DOG-WALKING FORECAST: We grade the weather outlook for taking your pet outdoors.
TODAY: Mostly Cloudy and cold, but dry. "D"
SUNDAY: Sunny with normal temperatures for this time of year, finally. "C"
A few years back I worked with a young lady who, after having a trying day, would stop at the local pet store to admire the puppies and occasionally play with one of them. I don’t have that kind of willpower. If went to a pet store or the Humane Society you can be guaranteed one thing: I WILL come home with a warm ball of fur. Nope… I just can’t window shop at the Humane Society. (That’s the main reason I stopped volunteering there!)
On the other hand, I absolutely love looking at cute pet photos that friends and family share. I even enjoy pet photos of “strangers.” The things I look forward to most in Kevin’s Photos Of The Week are the pet photos towards the end, and I am always hoping there will be at least one dog shot. I can get my “fuzzball fix” and not have to worry about my heart breaking as I walk away from a puppy’s whimpers that I am convinced are dog-speak for “Please take me home and love me.”
I’m sure everyone reading this blog has received at least one chain email of adorable photos of puppies (and kittens) in unbelievably sweet poses, the kind that make you actually “Awww…” out loud. And I’m sure that at least 75% of you have passed that email on to at least one other animal lover you know. I’d bet you a bag of kibble that your friend passed it on to at least one other friend, and on and on and on. Suddenly a whole group of people are cyber-linked by a photo of a fat fuzzy puppy chewing on a toy or being cuddled in a blanket. And for a brief moment every one of those people has a smile on their face because of that simple “forward.”
If just an email of dog photos can spread faster than you can say “Lassie” then imagine how Ustream.com’s PuppyCam swept the nation! What started as a private way for a couple to keep watch on their litter of puppies while they were away turned into a phenomenon that no one expected. Of course I’ve received forwarded emails about this, as everyone knows I would love watching puppies romp in their kennel. I expect this to continue to grow in popularity. After all, who couldn’t use a five minute break of puppy play along with their morning coffee?
Read the entire article, including a link to the PuppyCam, here. ENJOY!
---Jennifer Fischer
Thank you, darling wife of mine. Oh my goodness. It's that time, time for DOGS IN THE NEWS, canines that made headlines. And since Jennifer and I were gone last Saturday, we've got TWO WEEK'S worth of dog news to catch up on. Let's unleash what we've uncovered, shall we? As we often say, the news isn't always good.
Of course, the big news was the revelation that Petland, the largest chain of puppy-selling pet stores in America has been supporting dastardly puppy mills. The Humane Society of America made the stunning annoucement after an 8-month long investigation.
In Chicago, they're calling it, "an absence of shame." The Chicago Tribune writes, "The Englewood basement was cramped, chaotic. Fifty people -- parents, kids, a pregnant woman -- huddled around a bloody 10-foot-by-10-foot ring, cheering two pit bulls trained to kill.Barbaric to most, this medieval blood sport remains a routine source of shameless entertainment in large swaths of the city." Here's the paper's story on dogfighting.
Michael Vick put family pets in rings with pit bulls, and thought it was "funny" when dogs died.
But aren't pit bulls a great family dog?
Goodbye Gus.
In Baghdad, the mascot of the ABC News Bureau is shot.
Here's an update on a previous Barking Lot. States are considering banning pets in laps while driving. It's only a matter of time before someone in Madison proposes this stupid idea.
In Vegas, there's debate over a proposed pet sterilization ordinance.
A chihuahua is caught in a legal tug of war between a Playboy bunny and her ex.
Could this.....
...... be the service dog of the future?
How many dogs do you know that have honorary degrees?
Rio knows when her owner needs rest, or a trip to the hospital.
Everyone's writing or talking about Barack Obama and the dog he's going to get for the White House. This columnist must know my wife. She's suggesting Obama get one right away. Contrast that view with this writer who's urging Obama to forget the whole deal. And even the allergists are offering opinions. Whatever Obama chooses, that dog is bound to be a celebrity.
Who is Cesar Millan? He is the advice guru for pets.
Sorry, Jennifer. There's a catch to this one.
And these babies are still walking around Franklin...
The solution? Dogs, of course.
Is that it?
Are we finally done?
Whew!
That's a lot of dog stories. And not a single one bitten by a man.
Thanks for checking in to The Barking Lot. We do appreciate it. This week, we close with part of the soundtrack from the Disney movie, "Bolt," that opens in theaters this weekend. Miley Cyrus and John Travolta, voices from the movie, team up on this duet.
|
More Posts Next page »
|
|
