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Volume 73 - July 30th, 2004 Materials in this newsletter are the sole possession of the authors and Dog Company. Please do not copy or use in any fashion without written permission |
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From the Editor's Paw: ""A well trained dog is a free dog" Jump Into My Arms Admittedly this is NOT for all of you. It just won't work if you are a Mastiff, Newfie, St. Bernard or any other large dog! Well, unless your owner is like Arnold Swartzinegger. And even then, I doubt Arnie could catch a St. Bernard. You can do it with a small or medium sized dog ... I am a 45 pound dog and my mom is small - 5 ft tall, 125 pounds, and she has been "catching" me for 11years. This is really exciting every time so when you first start, you will find your own little thing that will trigger the game and command. Let's get you started. You, the dog needs to be in a really fresh, full of energy mood, mentally and physically. Make sure both of you have great footing and your handler is in a position where he or she can't drop you. Have them hold up a tidbit of food - you jump for it and let them 'catch you!' and make a real fuss over you! You won't be jumping high at first so the handler will need to bend over or slightly squat to catch you; then they need to quickly stand up holding you. The reward is being caught and held. Of course, you can have a treat, but after, when you're on the ground. Soon you'll be jumping very high and right into your handler's arms. Now just do this for a few minutes every day. Sure you want to do it longer but if you only do it for a few minutes, it will build the drive for you to want to do it ! Soon you will be wanting to help your handler and be jumping up beside them ...springing into the air when you hear the command word. I watch my mom; she uses both her hands and pats her chest quickly once and holds out her arms and says, "HUP." I just love to jump right up and she always catches me. I didn't notice till she started teaching our new puppies this trick but she also steps back a slight step to ensure her balance. Your person must experiment ...sometimes starting to "catch" might mean they have to sit on a chair or if you're really small, they might try kneeling to start ..make sure you're full of energy and hungry for this or any other trick....doing this on a full tummy is not a good thing. Flying & jumping...."Hup" Sweep ^..^~!
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Classified (To our advertisers: we'd love to hear if your ad in the Woof was successful. Please drop us a line and let us know.) Happy Birthday: Super extra big woofs, ruffs, and wooo wooos to Kaleb from the Woof gang. This big guy turns 7 years old on August 1. Special birthday wishes from his girlfriend and family in Brentwood! 
For Sale by Felines: We cats......Grace, Seven and Bob are making room for new things and are hoping for a "Cat Escape" so the humans have to sell the off the following:
All in great condition!!! email: maidmar@telus.net Pet Portraits: Here's an enterprising artist with a different slant on things... airbrushing... www.airiginal.com Have a look at his website. Wanted: Your 'articles', your 'For Sales', your 'Want Ads', your birthday wishes, your letters to Mam'selle, your ......... ????? By Wed. Aug.11... for the next Woof, please...... mailto: peni@dogcompany.com (Disclaimer: Advertisements posted by the Woof are done as a service, not as an endorsement. Please communicate directly with the ad contact for further information on any items.)
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ASK MAM'SELLE Dear Mam'selle I'm finding this heat on the west coast a real pain. Not only is it uncomfortable, but I'm not getting to get to do the things I usually do because, "It's too hot." Have you got any tips for how us furry types can keep cool?
Dear P. Poodle, In other words, just hang loose for these days. They're called the "DOG DAYS OF SUMMER" for a good reason. Lay back, dream of cooler days, contemplate your ideas on how to drive cats insane or how to get your folks to take you on that trip with them ... you know, just relax. "Dwell in the possibilities" Woof... Chill out !......Pouie ^..^~!
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Canine Genealology Woof to all my dog friends & relations ! My name is "Christopher." I come to "Chris, " "Cookie", you know, the ususal. I contacted my Border Collie girl friends beause they have this great newsletter that goes out to the world ! What better place to help me in my search for my roots! 
Yes, Canine Genealology! I heard about the Jack Russell Club doing this so I figure what those little guys can do, us red Dobies can do better. I and my humans have organised a bar-b-que/ get to know you fun Dobie bash! Not wanting to be snobby or anything I am interested in meeting up with other Dobies from my origins. I am originally from Redryder Doberman Kennel, Sooke, BC, and I was born Oct. 10, 2001. However, any other pups from the same kennel may be relatives of mine or if your dad or mom was from this kennel, we could be Kin! I would love to meet, play and get to know you and of course, your human family. Now some of you may live too far away to come to the BBQ, but please feel free to be part of it. Send me pictures and your story or stories and I will make up a big story picture board with all the pictures and stories on it so everyone can look, read and get to know you long distance. We will have a "Heavenly Board" too for those of our family who have gone on....... let's face it, All Dobies go to Heaven. All pictures and stories welcome. You can contact my dad at vicreddobie@shaw.ca. Our date for the BBQ is August 28th, here in Victoria, B.C., Canada. We will announce the actual reunion site as soon as we know how many will be attending. So please RSVP. Let us know if you can or can't but remember we would still love your pictures and stories and family linage via post or email. Ruff......."Chris" & family |
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Tips and Tales by Miss Trouble So... it's another full Woof... I'll write something next time! Wooooo.... HRH Trouble
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Phydeau Phun I've got a dog that can read. This morning we were walking on Broadway and passed a sign that said, "Wet Paint" - so he did!
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Magical Dragons You've read Harry Potter, yes? Remember the street where he gets everything magical before heading off to Hogwarts? Diagon Alley? Well, in early July, my Mom and a bunch of her friends headed off to what I've come to call "Dragon Alley". And it was just as magical. It seems that they've taken up the sport of dragon boating. Actually, the rest of my canine buddies and I thought that our two-footed assistants should have some sort of outside activity besides catering to our every wish. We suggested mountain climbing, sky diving or dragon boating. Strangely enough, they chose dragon boating. Go figure! We sent them off for training last November and December. We ignored their cursing and swearing as they paddled in the cold, the dark and the rainŠ.and heard some even more colourful language when they had to chip ice off the seats before they got into the boats. But they were much happier this spring when they got to practice in the warmth and light of day. They're funny that way. We even gave their team a name in keeping with their origin as our sidekicks: the Dog Paddlers. They worked hard all spring, focusing on their T & T: timing and technique. Their coaches-Josh and Anthony-then asked us if we would let them go up to Nanaimo (and isn't that an absolutely magical name?) to paddle in a dragon boat festival there. They thought it would be a good introduction to what a festival is all about, and would take the edge off of any nerves they might have about participating in the festivals here in Victoria in August. Good practice, Josh said. So we gave our OK. And something wonderfully magical happened in Nanaimo's Dragon Alley: our ragtag little group of human darlings actually won a medal! Imagine! And a SILVER medal at that. Well, you'd think we'd given them a whole handful of Doodle-Dog Treats, the way they carried on. Positively spinning in circles, they were so happy. Josh was grinning from ear to ear for an inordinately long time. He seemed rather like a Cheshire Cat (what else can you expect from Stripey the Cat's assistant, I ask you?) Sometimes all you could see of him was that smile!! So a big WOOF! WOOF! WOOF! from the D.O.G.S. (Delighted Owners of Gifted Sportshumans). Way to go, Dog Paddlers!!! 
Finnegan R.R.T. (Roving Reporting Terrier) |
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Puppy Update Hi Sweep & Peni! Just wanted to say thanks again for the training advice and tips that you gave my parents when I came to them as a new puppy. You will be happy to know I am doing wonderfully! I just graduated from puppy kindergarten last night! You can see for yourself that the folks think I'm turning out to be such a great dog! 
The group picture is from puppy graduation last night. Yep that's me .... Jake from Higley, Arizona! My puppy school is called 'Born To Run' located in Gilbert, Arizona. Ruff! Jake "Rottie" |
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Sea Dogs 
Here's another one of those dogs who go to sea. Wonder if he's ever been in a dragon boat? |
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Monty's Movies ROBIN HOOD - MEN IN TIGHTS (1993) Starring: Cary Elwes (Robin Hood), Amy Yasbeck (Maid Marian), Eric Allan Kramer (Little John), Matthew Porretta (Will Scarlet O'Hara), David Chappelle (Ahchoo), Mark Blankfield (Blinkin) Roger Rees (Sheriff of Rotingham), Richard Lewis (Prince John) Tracey Ullman (Latrine) Patrick Stewart (King Richard). Rated: PG 13 Genre: Comedy SUMMARY Robin Hood - Men in Tights is the standard story of Robin Hood: Evil Prince John oppressing the good people of England while King Richard is away on the Crusades. Robin steals from the rich to feed the poor, wins an archery contest, defeats the Sheriff, and rescues the Maid Marian. However, in this version, Mel Brooks adds his own personal flare parodying traditional adventure films, romance, and generally men running around the woods in tights! This Robin Hood satire spoofs Robin Hood movies in general, and 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves' in particular. Mel Brooks' humor injection into the story keeps you laughing the entire movie, the actors play their parts perfectly and the interaction between the characters is priceless. Cary Elwes (Robin Hood) does a great job of mimicking Kevin Costner's accent in Prince of Thieves. While Costner's accent was put on, Elwes' accent is the genuine article, making him one of the first, if not the first, Robin Hood with a real English accent! This is a great movie to watch when you are in the mood for fun and laughter. Tagline: The legend had it coming... Find out where Robin Hood put his Little John, what made Will Scarlet, and what did Friar Tuck into his tights that Maid Marion all of a quiver? Ruffffff... Monty Woofs of Wisdom Aquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative.
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The Doctor Is In Recently Pfizer changed its formula for Kaopectate. Kaopectate has been a popular means for treating diarrhoea in pets. The new formula uses bismuth subsalicylate as its active ingredient. Many dogs react badly to salicylates, and it should never be used with cats (except under direct veterinary care). The change to the formula is because of the fact that one of the previous active ingredients in Kaopectate was lead. Lead is a known carcinogen and potent reproductive toxin. So, what can we do to treat the occasional bout of diarrhoea in our dogs? A popular solution is a 24 hour fast for the dog, ensuring that they continue to drink lots of water during this time. The two things I have had the most success in using are raw pumpkin and Slippery Elm. I do rescue work with Springer Spaniels, and when a new dog comes into my home, I automatically give it pumpkin with its new food to avoid any stomach upsets. This is not the sweetened pie filling; but just pure, raw pumpkin. Pumpkin provides a general soothing effect upon the digestive tract, firming up stools, or easing their passage when the dog is constipated. For a forty pound dog, I usually use two tablespoons of pumpkin with each of their meals (I feed twice a day). The nice thing with pumpkin is that it is hard to feed too much of it. The following decoction makes the Slippery Elm more appealing to the dog. Mix 1 rounded teaspoon of Slippery Elm powder in a cup of cold water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Then reduce the heat and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, continuing to stir. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of raw honey. Cool to room temperature and give to your dog. The dosages by weight are: 1/2 - 1 teaspoon to dogs under 20 lbs, 2 teaspoons - 2 tablespoons for dogs 20 - 40 lbs, and 3-4 tablespoons for dogs over 40 lbs. Give the appropriate dosage to your dog every 4 hours, up to 4 times a day. Once cooled the mixture should be stored by covering it and keeping it at room temperature. This mixture will keep like this for a couple of days. This recipe is from Dr Pitcairn's book "Natural Health for Dogs and Cats" 2nd edition. It is important to make sure that your dog has constant access to fresh (preferably filtered) water, and is drinking it, in order to avoid dehydration. Should the diarrhoea persist for more than 3 days, or you see blood in the stools (either red or black), consult your veterinarian, as there could be a deeper cause to the illness. I hope that this information has been helpful; continue to send in your questions. Ruffs... Ceilidh Did You Know? Two dogs survived the sinking of the Titanic... a Pomeranian belonging to Miss Margaret Hays (in lifeboat 7) and a Pekingese belonging to Henry Sleeper Harper (in lifeboat 3)
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Backseat Survival Guide Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained during your next family road trip? Here's what to pack before you hit the road. A cookie sheet covered with magnets: If your child is learning to spell her name, you might want to bring along a set or two of magnetic letters. If she's crazy about animals, you might want to tote along some magnetic animals instead. A set of peel-and-stick stickers: It's no wonder so many airport convenience stores sell peel-and-stick sticker sets. They're the perfect travel toy. Not only are they compact and easy to store, they're 100% mess-free! A magnifying glass and a grab bag full of things to examine: A quick trip to the dollar store is all that's required to load up on a child-sized non-breakable magnifying glass and a few treasures to examine under the magnifying glass. Who knew an old-fashioned hair curler could be so fascinating? Books on tape: You can either pop them into the car stereo or let your child listen to them on her own portable stereo. Either way, she gets to hear her favourite story while you're cruising down the highway. Hand puppets: Hand puppets can be a real life saver if you get stuck in a traffic jam, so get in the habit of leaving a few in the glove compartment of your car in between family trips. You never know when one will come in handy. What about Fido: Happy in the crate or cargo area with a chewy or toy...lots of fresh air! Thanks for taking your furry friend along.....remember not to leave "Fido" in the car even with the windows down! (this part courtesy of "Sadie" the poodle") Content provided by Ann Douglas,"Homebasics" |
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'Bout Books by the Diabolical Duo WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BE CANADIAN by Ian Ferguson & Will Ferguson It is hilarious and well written about all the little quirks we have as Canadians...weather, our driving...so much more! Kids' book of the month: YOU CAN'T CATCH ME by Charlotte Doyle Little ones enjoy suspense just as much as anyone. This read is a rhyming rollick of a child and several different critters happily being chased by -- and getting momentarily away from -- a critter playmate. Free your mind! Read...Ruf...... "Swift" & "Reba" ^..^~~!
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The Purrrrrrr Felines, unite! The dogs are at it again.... just look at the lies this canine is telling... let's hope if it got mailed, that the "Master" (Who is that?.. is that another word for staff?) can read between the lines... look at the things the dog does! And, he's trying to get the other animals to help him in his sneaky attack on us! Dear Master: The cat is despicable. She doesn't do any tricks and never comes when you call and I've been there and I know she can hear you. We need to face facts: It's time to get rid of the cat. Before the cat's arrival, meals were very festive times. I would sit and stare attentively at your lips, trembling slightly and drooling. You would play the game of pretending to be cross and demand that I leave the area, but whenever you cooked dinner, your children would slip me food under the table. Now, though, the cat is allowed to jump on the table - actually physically walk on the table! You don't yell at the cat, you just pick her up and put her back on the floor, and I know you don't see it, but she always gives me a haughty look as she walks past me. And speaking of meals, I have always been satisfied to eat the gritty pellets of meat by-products you bring home in the giant bags, right? Have I ever once, ever, failed to finish a meal? But now I find out that the cat is being served lobster and salmon and crab - and she never consumes all of it! This means there are little containers of delectable snacks lying around and how can I be blamed for making sure they get eaten? Why do you get so mad? As long as the pet food is going to the pets, isn't that what's important? Then there's play time. I think we can clearly see that I am a big dog, descended from a noble line of hunters accustomed to chasing prey and attacking it. Haven't I nearly managed to take down a few cars as they've driven past the house? The cat is about the size of a squirrel and in my view should behave like one, but when I attempt to chase her, she hunches up and spits at me! This can't be sanitary. And shouldn't she be declawed? I'm very concerned about the potential for damage to the furniture and my nose. Speaking of sanitation, do you realize that the cat goes to the bathroom in the house? And not in the drinking basins like you do, but in a sandbox in the basement. What are we going to say if some woman brings her baby over to play in the sandbox and the cat has been using it as a toilet? I used to police the thing for you, but you put it up out of my reach for some reason. I'm not the only one who believes the cat is an evil person. Here's a note from the hamster: To: Master of the house I also tried to get a note from the fish, but apparently it believes that everything happening outside its bowl is some kind of reality-TV show. I don't understand why the cat is allowed up on the bed and I'm not. I am far more cuddly than any stupid cat. I think her purring sounds unhealthy and may be a sign of tuberculosis. And why doesn't she ever get a bath? She smells like saliva from licking her paws - you'd never catch me licking such ridiculous places. I often smell wonderful from rolling in roadkill, yet you give me baths all the time! And speaking of sleeping, sometimes I'll be taking a nap and she'll come right up and lie down beside me. Usually I'm too tired to do anything about it, but then later the other dogs smell her on me and crack a lot of jokes at my expense. So, not to exaggerate, but the cat has brought the family to complete ruin. I'm sorry I have to be the one to bring it to your attention, but now that I have, I think we can all agree that we should go back to the way it was, when I was the No.1 pet. Yours truly, Cleocatra |
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Dog's Note We have no interest in propagating unwanted email. If this has reached you in error or is unwelcome, please let us know, and we will take you off our mailing list. |
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