http://www.pitbull-chat.com Blogs from weblogs around the country talking about dogs, animal welfare and breed specific legislation en Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:55:54 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/images/005/misc/rss.jpg http://www.pitbull-chat.com http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47102&goto=newpost Sat, 21 Nov 2009 10:40:30 GMT When a Maltese-poodle mix named Mindy was found after being lost for 100 days in the woods of northwest Massachusetts, she was infested with fleas,... When a Maltese-poodle mix named Mindy was found after being lost for 100 days in the woods of northwest Massachusetts, she was infested with fleas, her weight had dropped to three pounds, and her fur was so matted over her face that she couldn’t see, which explained why she was running around in circles.She was [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47102 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47103&goto=newpost Sat, 21 Nov 2009 10:40:30 GMT Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter (BARCS) reports that it is in desperate need of foster homes for cats and kittens — especially mother cats and their kittens.If you want to help, contact Debra Rahl: debra.rahl@baltimorecity.gov

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47103 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47098&goto=newpost Sat, 21 Nov 2009 04:30:02 GMT Skorch is the first cat I could ever truly call my own. My first cat as an adult. He’ll be ten years old in January, which is almost unfathomable to me. It was only yesterday that he was a sweet baby kitten! He’s been losing weight for awhile. When I had him in for his [...]

More from Save the pit bull... ]]> Dog Blogs Save the pit bull http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47098 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47073&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:00:11 GMT On Wednesday, Ontario MPP Cheri DiNovo officially proposed a bill that would repeal the provincial ban on 'pit bulls' while dog owners assembled in Queen's Park - many (Like the one pictured left) dawning muzzles because of the existing law...

More from KC Dog Blog... ]]> Dog Blogs KC Dog Blog http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47073 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47068&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:00:01 GMT It’s rare that we post something that has absolutely no connection to dogs, but there’s an art exhibit opening tonight that is so stunning, so original, so cutting edge, so mine, that we can’t resist.The festivities begin at 6 p.m. at the Idle Hour, 201 E. Fort Avenue in Baltimore, and everyone’s invited.The one-night-only “outlaw [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47068 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47054&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:50:05 GMT In OH, infamous dog killer Tom Skeldon has resigned as Lucas Co dog warden. A PETA representative wrote a Letter to the Editor at the Toledo Blade... In OH, infamous dog killer Tom Skeldon has resigned as Lucas Co dog warden. A PETA representative wrote a Letter to the Editor at the Toledo Blade praising Skeldon's killing:No one wants to end the need for euthanasia more than the brave people who hold the syringe, but pushing dogs out the door like clearance merchandise or releasing vulnerable breeds into a world that holds only suffering and

More from YesBiscuit!... ]]> Dog Blogs YesBiscuit! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47054 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47050&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:40:10 GMT More from Terrierman's Daily Dose... ]]> Dog Blogs Terrierman http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47050 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47041&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:30:51 GMT Sometimes the news media is just soooo cynical. Case in point: Pfizer, the drug company, is*extolling the benefits of taking the family dog along... Sometimes the news media is just soooo cynical. Case in point: Pfizer, the drug company, is*extolling the benefits of taking the family dog along when*traveling for*the holidays.*The holidays are stressful times, Pfizer notes. Dogs can help relieve stress. Why leave a beloved member of the family behind? In an*email to various news media outlets, Pfizer makes note [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47041 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47042&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:30:51 GMT More from Terrierman's Daily Dose... ]]> Dog Blogs Terrierman http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47042 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47034&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:30:02 GMT The bluetick and redbone coonhounds — along with the Boykin spaniel — have been officially recognized as breeds by the American Kennel Club.The acceptance of the three new breeds brings to 164 the number of breeds fully recognized as such by the AKC.The Boykin spaniel will join the sporting group while both the bluetick coonhound [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47034 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47035&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:30:02 GMT A California man is blaming his dog for the fatal shooting of his wife.John Aaron Norris, 25, of San Miguel said his dog ran underneath his feet,... A California man is blaming his dog for the fatal shooting of his wife.John Aaron Norris, 25, of San Miguel said his dog ran underneath his feet, tripping him and causing the semi-automatic rifle*he was holding to fire.Norris is accused of*involuntary manslaughter in the July 9 shooting death of* 24-year-old Tasha Dawn Norris. His preliminary [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47035 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47028&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 07:20:40 GMT More from Terrierman's Daily Dose... ]]> Dog Blogs Terrierman http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47028 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47022&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 03:20:14 GMT *Konop wants him dismissed immediately* Lucas County Dog Warden Tom Skeldon has submitted a letter of resignation, effective Jan. 31, but... Konop wants him dismissed immediately

Lucas County Dog Warden Tom Skeldon has submitted a letter of resignation, effective Jan. 31, but Commissioner Ben Konop wants the warden to leave his office immediately."I am not comfortable with him as our dog warden for even another day," Mr. Konop announced at a Thursday afternoon news conference.

Read the rest of the article here.


More from Our Pack, Inc... ]]> Dog Blogs OurPack http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47022 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47023&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 03:20:14 GMT Those of you who read this blog regularly are familiar with my efforts to help my leash reactive (http://www.ourpack.org/aggressreactivity.html)dog,... Those of you who read this blog regularly are familiar with my efforts to help my leash reactive dog, Bear, stay calmer on walks, especially when he spots other dogs. Bear has made so much progress that I thought I would give an update in the hopes that my experience might be helpful to others who are struggling with this challenge.

Our Pack leash reactive class.

Earlier this summer, I was taking Bear to Our Pack’s Sunday leash reactivity class. I have three young dogs, and walking them all together is a challenge, especially when one or more of them is leash reactive. Bear was doing well in class, but on walks around our neighborhood he was still getting pretty spun up. He makes this funny squeal when he gets excited or nervous, which would turn to barking and lunging whenever a strange dog got too close.

So I took Bear to see Marthina for a private consultation with her Pit Bull ambassadors, Hailey and Professor Dexter. He did great there too - making me look like an overwrought, anxious owner who was blowing this all WAY out of proportion. He laughed at me all the way home.

Marthina kindly advised me to just walk Bear alone for a while, without my other dogs, to continue building his confidence.


Well, a couple of months ago, I had knee surgery and couldn’t walk my dogs at all anymore, so I hired someone to come in the mornings to exercise them. Once my knee got a little better, I took Marthina’s advice and started taking Bear out for a second, short walk around the block in the afternoons, just the two of us. Well, it’s funny, the knee surgery meant that I had to walk REALLY slowly at first, which actually helped us both to relax a lot more. I think that before, I had been prone at times to taking those grim, “Grab the leashes, stare straight ahead, you are all going to behave!” death march walks with my dogs. You know the kind, where you keep walking a little faster and a little faster, just to “technically” stay out in front of your dog? You know who you are!

Now, with my bum knee, Bear and I would just sort of amble (limp) along, stopping often to rest and sniff the rose bushes. But I also took the opportunity to continue to work on his leash skills, giving him lots of treats and positive rewards for coming back to my side. I did this every time a dog barked inside a house or behind a fence we were passing, or when a squirrel ran across the road, a cyclist went by and, of course, when we saw other dogs. I went through a LOT of treats. But in the space of a few short weeks, our walks, and Bear’s leash skills, have vastly improved. We have gotten to the point where he will walk on a very loose leash without pulling, even as we pass by other dogs. Even excited, barking dogs.


I hadn’t realized, though, how much progress we’d really made until a recent afternoon. We were walking around the block and I was daydreaming a bit, not really paying attention, when a dog in a neighbor’s yard suddenly rushed the fence and erupted in furious barking. I nearly jumped out of my skin, then

Bear in Our Pack's class.

quickly recovered, only to see Bear, standing calmly at my side, looking up at me as if to say, “Well, where’s my treat??” He reacted better than I did! Amazing. I think the combination of me relaxing and providing TRUE consistency (we go every single day, even for just ten minutes) did wonders.


Bear still has his moments, but it is just awesome to see his progress. Our little daily walks have really helped us bond. I can see his trust in me growing every day, and more importantly, I’ve learned to trust him, too.





More from Our Pack, Inc... ]]> Dog Blogs OurPack http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47023 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47012&goto=newpost Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:20:12 GMT Charlie had his first veterinary appointment today.* While he will cheerfully allow me to handle him any way I like, being handled by strangers is... Charlie had his first veterinary appointment today.* While he will cheerfully allow me to handle him any way I like, being handled by strangers is still a completely different story.* So I brought him in by himself (I usually bring the dogs in*as*a pack, as they’re all very easy to handle).* And I brought a [...]

More from Smartdogs' Weblog... ]]> Dog Blogs Smartdogs http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=47012 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46999&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:10:09 GMT Not to redirect you from my shop, which I hope you'll visit while looking for Christmas gifts (hint, hint) but if you are looking for some stocking stuffers that are not only beautiful, but can help keep you healthy, check...

More from Three Red Trees... ]]> Dog Blogs ThreeRedTrees http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46999 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46990&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:00:03 GMT I took Steve to agility last night. I was so up in the air about whether or not I should, or whether I ought to give him a longer break, but in the... I took Steve to agility last night. I was so up in the air about whether or not I should, or whether I ought to give him a longer break, but in the end I figured I’d just make the promise to him that if he got uncomfortable again, we’d leave and that would be [...]

More from Save the pit bull... ]]> Dog Blogs Save the pit bull http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46990 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46974&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:50:09 GMT Lucas County Dog Warden Tom Skeldon submitted a letter of resignation today. Skeldon's official last day will be January 31st, 2010 -- however, most of that time will be using some of his accrued vacation time. His last day in...

More from KC Dog Blog... ]]> Dog Blogs KC Dog Blog http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46974 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46975&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:50:09 GMT USA Today has an interview with Dr. Stephen Zawistowski, a behaviorist with the ASPCA who worked with Oreo. He is asked about the opposition to... USA Today has an interview with Dr. Stephen Zawistowski, a behaviorist with the ASPCA who worked with Oreo. He is asked about the opposition to releasing her to a sanctuary instead of killing her:"Unless she was put in virtually complete isolation," she'd live a "life of constant stress," he said. She was so reactive to so many things that she was almost always agitated. "We tried to desensitize

More from YesBiscuit!... ]]> Dog Blogs YesBiscuit! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46975 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46960&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:40:04 GMT More from YesBiscuit!... (http://yesbiscuit.blogspot.com/2009/11/yeah-hes-cute-now.html) More from YesBiscuit!... ]]> Dog Blogs YesBiscuit! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46960 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46946&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:30:03 GMT In this cut and paste world in which we’ve come to value getting it done quickly over getting it done with class, style or individuality, maybe it’s not all that surprising that*Ohio’s “dog-friendly” license plate features the image of a pooch who’s not from from*Toledo, or*Dayton, or Cincinnati, or*even Cleveland or Akron.No, Ohio’s steel-stamped icon [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46946 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46947&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:30:03 GMT What happens when an overly affectionate cat takes a special liking to a Texas lawman at a traffic stop?A: The officer dispenses some street... What happens when an overly affectionate cat takes a special liking to a Texas lawman at a traffic stop?A: The officer dispenses some street justice.B. The cat gets arrested, convicted and sentenced to the nine death penalties.C. Something entirely different.The officer’s dashboard camera caught the whole event. Watch and see. (And don’t worry,*this video is [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46947 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46948&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:30:03 GMT While*a* Delaware police department worried*about the fate of one of its police dogs — shot in the line of duty last week — it suddenly lost another one.Bandit, a 6-year-old German shepherd who had served four years in the K-9 unit of the New Castle County Police Department, was euthanized Monday after being diagnosed with [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46948 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46949&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:30:03 GMT Nathan App was sentenced in Montgomery County Court in Pennsylvania to five years of probation and 60 hours of community service after trying to... Nathan App was sentenced in Montgomery County Court in Pennsylvania to five years of probation and 60 hours of community service after trying to drown a woman’s dachshund in a backyard swimming pool.Under a plea agreement, App, 20, of Douglass Township, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of cruelty to animals.“His conduct was disgusting. It [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46949 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46943&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:21:29 GMT More from Terrierman's Daily Dose... ]]> Dog Blogs Terrierman http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46943 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46940&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:21:13 GMT Yep, yep - Another bust dog has landed safely in CA.

I fear there may be yawns all over the place with more bust dog news, so I won't go into detail about this wonderful fresh arrival just yet. After all, Mikey (below) is just another one of dozens and dozens of dogs coming home from the "biggest-baddest-bust-eva." They're everywhere!

While we celebrate an unprecedented number of bust dogs saved from an unprecedented dog fighting sweep in the midwest this summer, the loyal homebodies among us are understandably right to ask:

"But what about our own LOCAL dogs-in-need?"

GOOD QUESTION! The conundrum of choosing which lucky dogs get those rare foster spots is an important topic and a common theme in our weekly lunchtime meetings after Pit Ed class. One thing's for sure, we aim to rescue at least one or two local dogs for every out-of-state dog we take in. That unofficial policy has been in place since back when we committed to ten Vick dogs. So the arrival of Mikey signals a shopping spree for BR reps looking to fill a special foster home with a special local dog.


In short, we're looking for a new ambassador. But with so many, how do you pick?

Here's the climate: In the east bay, pit bulls don't really need us like they did ten years ago. Strong adoption programs in our local shelters means the squishiest, most well-socialized dogs get snapped up quickly - without question. Nowadays, REAL pit bull rescue in the east bay involves taking dogs that have medical or behavior issues and then shining those rough diamonds up into little super stars. For example, in the past 12 months, we took ownership of over 30 dogs while working within the Oakland Animal Services. Eight of those dogs had medical problems that required surgery or some concentrated TLC before they could be adopted out. Twelve had workable behavior issues that stemmed (typically) from lack of socialization or a good old fashioned proper upbringing. Six of the dogs presented unworkable behavior issues and were given compassion holds. And a whole six of the dogs were 'easy keepers' who helped us train new volunteer handlers before they found their way to some very lucky, usually novice homes.

So, here we go again...Scanning the shelters and comparing notes with each other on what we've seen. Who needs us the most? Should we go to the next county and save a highly adoptable dog that has zero options? Stick close to home and help a dog with issues? Scan our email for a desperate family in foreclosure? (tons of those) How do we balance out the personalities and genders we already have? And - very important - how much vetting, training and socializing do we have the energy to do this time around? Easy keepers are like a happy vacation to rescuers and a breath of fresh air after one or two more difficult dogs. But then again, the difficult dogs are the ones that bring some of the biggest rewards. Sigh.

It's a strange mix of privilege and burden to save a life. In the end, it's probably safe to say that we don't choose our rescue dogs. Rather, they always seem to find a way to choose us.






More from BAD RAP Blog... ]]> Dog Blogs BAD RAP http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46940 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46933&goto=newpost Thu, 19 Nov 2009 04:20:08 GMT More from Terrierman's Daily Dose... ]]> Dog Blogs Terrierman http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46933 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46914&goto=newpost Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:00:15 GMT NY state legislators seem to take the business of needless dog killing seriously:From the Office of Assembly Member Micah Kellner in Manhattan:We are... NY state legislators seem to take the business of needless dog killing seriously:From the Office of Assembly Member Micah Kellner in Manhattan:We are preparing to introduce legislation this week along with State Senator Tom Duane to require shelters to release any animal they plan to kill to a bonafide rescue group or humane organization which requests possession of [the animal]. The legislation

More from YesBiscuit!... ]]> Dog Blogs YesBiscuit! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46914 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46915&goto=newpost Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:00:15 GMT (WARNING: This video is graphic and disturbing)A Lithuanian man who arranged to have himself filmed throwing a dog over the side of a bridge — and then posted the video online — was forced to turn himself in today after internet groups tracked him down and outed him.The video,*posted on Lithuanian websites,*quickly spread across the [...]

More from ohmidog!... ]]> Dog Blogs ohmidog! http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46915 http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46916&goto=newpost Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:00:15 GMT Santa, reindeer and sleigh-loads of twinkling lights are appearing in malls everywhere. More critically, Black Friday... Santa, reindeer and sleigh-loads of twinkling lights are appearing in malls everywhere. More critically, Black Friday is around the corner, and will be upon us before you can even say "arf."

Given that we have spent more time that we can ever justify looking at, reading about, and trying out an avalanche of canine products, we thought we would share our knowledge with you and help make your holiday shopping easier. Thus, with no further ado, here are our picks for all the canine-loving people on your gift list:

1. Happy Dog: Caring For Your Dog's Body, Mind and Spirit

Since this is our blog, we couldn't resist recommending our own book! HAPPY DOG is top choice for all the dog lovers on your list. Whether your giftee is a new dog owner or an experienced one, HAPPY DOG will teach him/her new tricks that will make Fido happy!

HAPPY DOG is available at bookstores and on-line retailers such as Amazon and Barnes and Noble. If you purchase the book on our website, we will personally sign the book and Barker and Meowsky will donate a portion of the sale to American Humane, the only national organization dedicated to protecting animals and children.

2. Richards Harness Coat

We used to cut holes in Shadow and Arthur's sweaters and coats to accommodate their harnesses. But that was before we found the Richards Harness Coat. This clever coat combines climate control, fashion, safety and convenience.

The coats are fully lined, machine washable, and come in a satisfying array of fashionable patterns and fabric choices for every weather condition. Choose fleece for winter, water resistant versions for rain, spa cooling coats for warmer weather and field coats to protect Fido when he's in the brush. The built-in harness is easy to adjust and closes with 2 simple clips. Fido's leash attaches to a sturdy ring sewn into the top of the coat.

We compared the Richards Harness Coat to others and it's no contest -- the quality and construction of the Richards coat are best in show.

Richards Harness Coats are reasonably priced ranging from $21.95 for XXS to $59.95 for XXL Long. Order on line or call 248-693-7422. Happy Dog Land readers can save 10% on their purchase by entering: HDL-2009-10 into the promo code box from now until 12/30/09.

3. WACKYwalk'r LEASHES

For all the people on your list who love to walk their dogs, the WACKYwalk'r is a perfect gift.












Constructed from stretchy natural rubber tubing that's reinforced with an internal safety line, the leash extends to twice its length, thus allowing your pooch to explore without ripping your arm out of its socket. How? The leash's flexible tubing reduces the kinetic stress on both the human and the dog. With the WACKYwalk'r, you and your pooch will no longer feel the jerk caused by rigid leashes.

The leashes, which come in 14 vibrant colors, are available in 6 different sizes based on Fido's weight) and in 6 different styles to accommodate various walking environments and the pooch's strength.

The WACKYwalk'r ($24-35), which extends from 3 ft to 6 ft, is the longest leash. The URBAN ($22-$31) extends from 1.5 feet to 3 feet and allows for more control in congested areas. The STUBB'R ($27), which extends from 10 inches to 20 inches, is ideal for large dogs who are strong pullers. The X'TENSION ($8-$15) attaches to retractable leads and acts as a serious shock absorber for the dog and human.













Multiple dog families are also in luck. The CRAZYcoupl'r ($24-$35) allows you to walk 2 dogs comfortably on one leash. For a 3 dog family, the TRICKYtripl'r ($28-$33) is a perfect choice.

Our WACKYwalk'rs have made squirrel watching much easier to bear when we walk Shadow, Zeke or Arthur. Purchase the WACKYwalk'r products on line or call 610-222-0679

4. Port-A-Poo

Nobody likes hauling around a full poop bag while searching for a garbage can. The clever folks behind Port-A-Poo make life with a canine so much easier (and less smelly) with this must-have gizmo for anyone who walks their pooch.











We were initially drawn to Port-A-Poo's cute logo and pithy slogan ("picking up where your dog left off"). Then, the cleverness and usefulness of the product won us over.

The Port-A-Poo is a hands-free way to carry poop bags whether they're empty or full. The Port-A-Poo easily and securely attaches to any leash. Once attached, it's literally a snap to use. Just open the clip, slip in the bag and you're good to go. Now, you'll be able to throw a tennis ball instead of clutching Fido's poop bag.

At $9.95, the Port-A-Poo makes a great stocking stuffer or gift for one of the eight nights of Hanukkah. Choose from 5 bright colors and 2 sizes that fit standard and retractable leashes. Purchase the Port-A-Poo on line or in retailers in the US and Canada and around the world.

5. Nose Print Jewelry By Robin's Loving Touch


















Indiana artist Robin Durnbaugh of Robin's Loving Touch offers one of the most unique and meaningful jewelry ideas we've come across.

Robin's nose print pendants, charms and identification tags are made from an impression of your pooch's schnoz in yellow gold, white gold, sterling silver or solid chrome ($195-$625 depending on the metal and most include a matching chain).

Robin's jewelry keeps your best friend close to you at all times. Robin also offers finger print pendants to keep your human loved ones with you.

The pendants, charms and tags are personalized and instant heirlooms. Included in the price of the jewelry is a kit with easy-to-follow instructions for making the impression for the piece.

Both Jill and Billy have put in their orders. Jill will be wearing Shadow's nose print and her son's fingerprint. Billy will be sporting Zeke and Arthur's nose prints. Order on line or call 260-489-0671.

8. No Ears In Here Dog Bowl

Here's some welcome relief for all the long-eared dogs on your list. The cleverly designed No Ears In Here Bowl keeps pendulous ears out of the food or water so Fido's ears and the floor stay clean and dry while he eats or drinks.

Although the entire device is 5 1/2 inches tall, the inner bowl is just deep enough to hold 2 cups of food or water. This means that Fido is less likely to gulp his food and swallow excess air, which might upset his tummy.

The bowls are made in the USA and at $9.35 a piece make an economical and practical gift. Fill the bowl with treats, wrap it in cellophane and voila you have a snazzy gift that didn't break the bank. Order on line or call 574-267-6258.

7. DONATION TO A PET CHARITY OF YOUR CHOICE

Honor the people or pets on your gift list by helping animals in need. Making a donation to a favorite local or national animal welfare organization, shelter or rescue is a perfect gift for any animal lover. Most charities will be happy to notify the honoree of you gift, which saves you the time and effort of sending a card.

WARNING: NEVER BUY A PET AS A GIFT!

We hope our suggestions help make your holidays easier and removes some of the stress of finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list. One thing you will never see on our list is a live animal: dogs (or any pet) make lousy gifts! Taking on the responsibility of pet ownership is something that should not (and cannot!) be "given" to someone.

Everyone doesn't share our love of animals, and even animal lovers may be reluctant or incapable of assuming the responsibilities, time commitment and expense of a new pet. Animals are not returnable or disposable and, therefore, should never, ever be given as a gift.

Instead, wrap up a creative stand-in for the living, breathing animal, such as a picture, toy, food or cute collar and leash. Better yet, purchase a gift certificate from a local shelter or rescue. This allows the recipient to decide for him- or herself whether she’s ready, willing and able to welcome a pet into her family.

Moreover, the holidays are a dreadful time to introduce a new pet into a household. Routines are altered, celebrations take everyone from home and everyone is probably too busy to provide a new family member with the required care, stability, love and attention. Wait until after the holidays. Local shelters and rescues will be overflowing with rejected holiday gifts that are anxiously awaiting their new home.

We hope that this provides you with some good ideas on how to make your holiday season doggone amazing!


More from Happy Dog Land... ]]> Dog Blogs Happy Dog Land http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.php?t=46916