Always surround yourself with stacks and stacks of books.
By Erin Kirkpatrick
Reading is a simple pleasure in life, but unfortunately, it often finds itself “shelved” to allow time for other tasks we deem more important. I collect books and keep stacks and stacks of them strategically placed around my house. I put them there so that I can easily pick one up when I have a few minutes to spare. Ideally, I would love to sit down on my couch with a book and completely immerse myself in words, characters, and intricate plots. In the next few months, I’m going to make more time for reading because it’s full of health benefits. Who wants to join me?
Reading can improve brain function, reduce stress, and it’ll give your eyes a break from the screen you’re currently staringat. By the way, thank you for reading my words. There’s something indescribable about holding a book in your hand — the feel of the pages, the smell of the book, and the use of ink to tell and show a story. We’ve set our sights on animal-oriented books that you can add to your to-read list. We’ve also included a healthy dose of reads for the kids, too!
Who cares if your reading list gets longer? That’s just more books for you to read in the future!
Tito Beveridge is a man who knows about commitment. The grit he used to create the world’s smoothest vodka, he is now using to save the lives of the most vulnerable dogs in his state.
Imagine for a second, a vodka so smooth that you actually CAN drink it straight. Listen, this girl cringes when any hard liquor passes the lips, but inside this first (tentative) sipping moment, I finally understood what it meant when they said a liquor is “smooth.” Because, let’s be honest, that burn in the back of your throat is not what I call “smooth.” There was no burn, no cringe back, only a dreamy list of summer drinks popping to mind. I’m thinking patio and hard lemonade. Maybe Grapefruit Fizz? Caesar with a dill pickle? I’m even thinking of it on ice for the summer. Crazy, right? You can find your own inspirations on Tito’s Vodka website.
Back in 90s, this type of vodka just didn’t exist. Liquor consumers were not impressed with its harsh bite, and as a result, new brands of vodka typically collected dust on the back shelf. When Tito first made the rounds to sell his flavored liquor, he was consistently turned away. Without benefit of the Internet, Tito took to books and experimentation to create the smooth vodka the market was begging for. Now, thanks to word of mouth and a win of double-gold at the SF World Spirit Championship, Tito’s Vodka stands out in its class.
This progressive company has always used its good fortune and (now) popularity to benefit dogs without homes. From community initiatives, to actively seeking adoption opportunities, matching rescues with humans, creating outreach at local shelters, even starting a dog-inclusive workplace culture, this man is extremely passionate about finding second chances for surrendered and homeless dogs.
Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Tito began his education at Vanderbilt, then onto the University of Texas where he completed degrees in Geology and Geophysics – a far cry from distilling vodka. Tito spent some years working in the oil and gas industry in Venezuela and Columbia before returning to his home state and settling in Austin, Texas. After dabbling in a hobby of making flavored vodka for his friends, Tito took the greatest leap of his professional life, ending his business and dedicating himself to making the smoothest vodka in the world.
Operations started in a shed, with his dog, Dogjo, at Tito’s side. Sometimes Dogjo was the only contact Tito had with another living being for days on end. He gets very emotional when describing the commitment Dogjo had for him through the tough times of these early days.
Tito refused to be discouraged when every investor turned him down because they believed he would never get a legal distillery up and running in the state of Texas. He used all of his savings and jockeyed 19 credit cards to build a one-man distillery; all while lobbying to change laws in Texas. His greatest responsibility though, as Tito saw it, was to feed the growing canine and feline interests that turned up at his shed.
Tito’s Vodka grew as a distillery, a business, and a brand, but one thing remained the same – Tito’s passion for dogs. Tito’s employees have always fed strays that happen upon the distillery and one pivotal day, a pregnant dog appeared. This was Stella – heavy with puppies, exhausted, sick, and desperately in need of help. Elizabeth Bellanti, Tito’s Project Manager, took Stella in, nursed her back to health, and adopted her. Tito’s Vodka then found all of Stella’s puppies a loving home. And so it began.
It is always a heart break to see an animal injured. Accidents do happen, though, and we are grateful that Derrick Campana, animals prosthetics expert, is on hand to help.
Campana is the President and CEO of Animal Ortho Care, a company that creates braces and prosthetics for animals. He originally trained to build human prosthetics and orthotics, but always had a passion for helping animals. As a result, Campana shifted his talents to “give your pet a healthier life with the gift of mobility”. Over the past 12 years, this world renowned expert has designed and built over 25,000 prosthetics for animals.
The devices are designed to suit the individual needs of a disabled animal or an injured pet. Campana has built prosthetics for cats, dogs, sheep, elephants, birds, horses, donkeys, turtles, and many more. The majority of his patients, however, are dogs. Compana’s most memorable fitting involved two Asian elephants in Thailand, each had lost front limbs to land mines.
“They were actually better than any patient I ever saw. They just held their legs out, and the trainers did such a good job … I was able to cast them pretty effectively. It took a lot longer than casting a dog, but we got it done,” said Campana feeling emotional over this job, which he describes as a wonderful one.
Campana says that prosthetics change the animal’s life dramatically, and in some cases, even save it. There have been many dogs that would have been put down if Dr. Dolittle hadn’t agreed to help.
Where to stay and what’s on offer with hotels on the East Coast
By Si Si Penaloza
Traveling with your pet can be a blissful petting-moon or a taxing buzzkill. Much of this all comes down to where you decide to stay. Routines are disrupted, new sights and sounds can exhaust even the most intrepid traveling pets. Moreover, prepping for the trip can be daunting, with such little baggage allocation as it is for hiking boots and yoga mats – never mind hauling pet bedding and sleeping paraphernalia. Here at Get Leashed, we know pet owners are increasingly doing more and more research before take off. We aim to provide a compass to find your pet-friendly bearings, wherever you are. Check back for ongoing updates on the latest in hotel pet programming. It’s not all Milk Bones n’ honey out there and not all pet programs are equal. So, how do you discern a truly animal-respecting hotel from a crass cash grab? This week, we focus on the East Coast’s finest – check out our “Leaders of the Pack” list of the most pet-friendly accommodations in the East. Pet fees and weight limits vary, so be sure to call ahead and always bring a copy of current vaccination records. If you’re feeling more like a West Coast jaunt check out these offerings.
Poised on Manhattan’s posh Upper East Side, The Surrey is the only Relais & Châteaux hotel in New York City. Surely, this would imply the canine cuisine would be top notch as well and indeed it is. Upon arrival, all dogs receive a welcome treat from Bocce’s Bakery, New York’s gourmet biscuit company. Select from additional amenities, including: a plush Surrey monogrammed dog bed and an in-room biscuit menu designed by Bocce’s Bakery with Truffle Mac & Cheese, Beef Bourguignon and Chicken Cordon Bleu bites. Bespoke Posh Pet concierge services are also available offering a list of local dog parks and insider tips on the best pet-friendly dining spots in the city. The Posh Pet Concierge can also arrange for grooming services, discounts at local pet boutique, Canine Styles, and dog walking services by Throw Me a Bone. The Surrey is dedicated to being a luxury destination for humans and their pet travel companions, and they give back to animals that are less fortunate. They will donate up to $10,000 per year to the Humane Society of New York as part of a recent partnership.
The Mandarin Oriental Atlanta pet program is designed to ensure its four-legged guests experience a level of luxury not typically extended to them while traveling to Buckhead’s most exclusive address. From customized amenities to the special MOpup in-room dining offerings, Mandarin Oriental, Atlanta has been a huge hit for both furry pets and their owners. For a sweet start to their stay, pets will be welcomed upon arrival with organic bone-shaped cookies prepared by the hotel’s pastry team. In the guestroom, pets will be treated to a cozy bed, water bowl, doggie dental kit and a variety of play toys.
The in-room MOpup dining program offers a selection of special pet-friendly dishes, such as Grilled Steelhead Salmon with Roasted Asparagus and Glazed Carrots, and Dry Aged Beef Tenderloin with Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes and Peanut Butter Biscuits. Is it a tad troubling that our mouths are watering? To seal the deal, the hotel’s English garden has a dedicated pet-friendly seating area, perfect for relaxing and enjoying cocktails. Dogs get a kick out of exploring all of the hidden nooks on the green and also try a non-alcoholic peach flavored ‘MOcktail’ or a coconut water-infused ‘Melon Puptail.’ You’ll want to splurge on an irresistible MOpup hoodie designed with the slogan, ‘Keep Calm and Carry Treats.’ Pet turndown service is also available upon request.
Grab your furry friends and escape to The Lodge at Glendorn, located in the scenic Pennsylvania countryside, adjacent to the Allegheny National Forest. Glendron offers four-season activities for families of all sizes and their furry companions. Children and adults can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, fly-fishing, scavenger hunts, bicycling, skeet and trap shooting and even salamander catching at Skipper Lake. Family picnics, bonfires and yard games are other activities offered where pet can join in on the fun – this is a major bonus and a real gesture of pet-respect! Your four-legged friend will be just as comfy as you in a selection of pet friendly cabins that come complete with a dog bed and dishes.
Located at the foot of Mount Mansfield in the quintessential New England village of Stowe, Topnotch Resort re-opened in 2013 following a nearly $15M investment. Pups big and small go wild for this storied retreat in the Green Mountains. The 35,000 square foot spa at Topnotch features over 120 treatments including doggie poolside massages and Rover Reiki healing treatments. Dogs are welcome free of charge in select rooms and receive doggie turndown service including a plush doggie bed and bowl. Four-legged friends who visit Topnotch truly receive the VIP (Very Important Pup) treatment.
Let’s come to grips with it, shall we? Is your posh pup on the, shall we say, snooty side on visits to your local dog park – a bit of the “don’t sniff me, I don’t know where you’ve been” type? We’ve got a weekend pad right up your alley. The quintessential Newport mansion-turned-luxurious hotel, Vanderbilt Grace offers a dog package allowing guests to bring their best friend on vacation! Package includes bedding for any size dog, dog bowl for water, food, complimentary dog bone upon arrival, Sojos Dog Treats and the Cain & Able Dog Bath Collection available for purchase. Vanderbilt Grace comprises of 33 rooms and suites, a sumptuous spa and two restaurants including Muse, a fine dining restaurant by renowned New England chef, Jonathan Cartwright.
What working breed doesn’t enjoy a good old jaunt up to New England for the weekend? Twin Farms is an intimate, all-inclusive country hideaway set amidst 300 acres of woodlands in an unspoiled valley, 15 minutes north of Woodstock in Barnard, Vermont. It is the only five-star resort in Vermont with a culinary program where dishes are specially prepared for each individual guest with local ingredients in season. Hand-painted murals, rich maple and pine woodwork, American folk art and museum-quality contemporary oils adorn rustically elegant suites. The property recently introduced dog friendly accommodations and pooch-led outings. Four-legged family members are now welcomed in select guestrooms and able to partake in hiking, biking, tennis, fly fishing and canoeing , all available on the resort’s acres of picturesque meadows. Maggie, Twin Farm’s resident dog, helps lead guest pups on hikes and to their expansive cottages.
From pet bedding, food bowls and treats to special pet menus and on-site pet-friendly walking paths, this Lake Geneva resort provides canine guests with top-line services and treatment. The property’s Pet Club takes great advantage of the sprawling grounds and fresh country air. Tail-wagging dishes on the Pet Club Pet Menu includes chicken pate, pork and applesauce, duck and sweet potato, and grain-free surf and turf dishes made with fresh Wisconsin produce and hand-trimmed meat and fish. Hello, and we never want to leave!
All W Hotels in North America cater to four-legged guests with a custom W pet bed and food bowls in their guestroom. With the demands of pet-loving travelers ringing in their ears, W Hotels have stocked up on everything from treats to toys. While some properties are content with simply letting pets on the premises for a fee, other hotels roll out the welcome mat with genuine gusto! The W brand has proven to be among the best for jet-setting pets and the humans who love them. At the W Hotel Montreal, a welcome amenity package awaits that includes a W pet tag, treats, and waste disposal bags. Furry visitors get a treat at turndown as well, and a welcome letter with information about local pet services.
In a game-changing move, Ritz-Carlton pampers pets with services ranging from a loaner Burberry raincoat to certified canine massage therapists. Can you say posh pet palace? The kennel just won’t cut it: gone are the days of excluding four-legged friends from family vacations. While not all Ritz-Carlton Hotels are pet friendly, those who accept pets offer welcome amenities including treats and toys, loaner beds and bowls, and special services ranging from canine room service to spa treatments for pooches between 10 and 30 pounds.
For a snazzy stay on modest means, Hotel Indigo serves up great value with its pet program. All hotels in the group are pet friendly, and while fees and weight limits vary (a few don’t charge fees and weight limits are set by each individual hotel), you can count on amenities like dog treats and basic water bowls. The Atlanta and San Diego locations even host a periodic Canine Cocktails “Yappy Hour”, and have canine ambassadors in residence.
With so many choices, which is the right one? A Vet gives their opinion.
By Justyne Yuen-Lee
We all want what’s best for our dogs. As much as we love the extra excitement and cuddles we get when we have a treat in our hands, we also want to nurture them with healthy food. A walk through the supplement aisle, however, is an exercise in confusion as every package claims to be good for your dog’s health. So, it’s always important to do your research and know exactly what a dog needs to support good health.
Whenever you’re considering altering your dog’s diet or supplements, consult your vet first.
Dr. Ernie Ward, an internationally renowned vet and officially “America’s Pet Advocate”, gives five supplement recommendations that he thinks all dog owners should know about:
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
DHA and EPA, the fatty acids, act as powerful brain fuels for dogs, cats, and people. Fish oil and Algae oil are the best sources for Omega-3 fatty acids for dogs.
The benefits:
Improve learning
Preserve memory and cognition
Aid eyesight and nervous system
Help combat inflation
Help treat arthritis, allergies and skin conditions.
Talk to your vet to know exactly which dosage is right for your dog since these vary according to age, weight, diet, and medical condition (if it applies).
2. Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a big one that is hyped in pro-supplement circles. Advertisements abound on social media and TV, but Dr. Ward warns that with hype comes hoax. So, while Glucosamine has its benefits for dog joints, it’s important to find a trustworthy brand.
The best way to ensure this result is to look for the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal. Then research the brand to make sure it’s reputable and gives evidence to support the efficacy of its product. And, as always, talk to your own vet for suggestions.
3. Probiotics
Dogs and humans need a little help with the tummy trouble and probiotics is the way to go. Probiotics help improve digestion, immunity and also prevent diseases. Dr. Ward suggests a veterinary formulation with at least 1 billion Colony Forming Units (CPUs).
Probiotics help dogs who are stressed, undergoing anaesthesia or have chronic GI problems.
4. S-Adenosylmethonine (SAMe)
If you have a senior dog, SAMe would benefit your dogs as they age. SAMe is used in dogs who have liver disease, cognitive decline, and arthritis. Humans use SAMe to improve mood, and depression and Alzheimer’s symptoms. Dr. Ward recommends only using special veterinary formulations that are proven to be adequately absorbed into your pet’s body.
5. L-Carnitine
This supplement is used for weight loss, heart disease and to support brain function in dogs. If you think your pet may benefit from L-Carnitine, ask your vet to check for hypothyroidism first as the supplement has a potential to impair thyroid function.
Finally, Dr. Ward warns against inadvertently overdosing your pet on a preferred supplement. There is “too much of a good thing” when it comes to supplements. Over supplementing can cause problems in other parts of your pet’s body. This is why having your veterinarian’s approval and advice is key!
The Museum of Dog, in North Adams, Massachusetts, recently celebrated its grand opening with the spotlight on an exhibit called, “Come See About Me: Daisy.” It is an intensely personal, yet wonderfully universal series of pieces inspired by 11-year old Daisy; the Weimaraner belonging to owner, David York. This little spitfire destroyed the interior of York’s jeep; a piece of that event is on display for all to fully appreciate the deconstructive passionate of a dog.
Daisy’s exhibit, running through October 2018, is only the tip of the doggy delights. You can also feast your eyes on a bulldog pop art piece (Marc Tetro) that was once a prominent feature at the Central Perk, on set of Friends. Patrons can marvel at dog sculptures created by metal fabrication students to whom York has given $2000 scholarships for their continuing education. York is genuinely thrilled to have a space to share the pieces he has collected throughout the years. The 8000-square foot building currently houses over 180 canine-inspired wonders.
The long-time philanthropist has always had a passion for dogs. Growing up, York’s family routinely adopted retired police dogs, and these early relationships shaped much of the direction of York’s love for canines. In 1989, he founded Barking Hound Village, a doggy daycare, boarding, and grooming company. There are now 8 locations in Atlanta, Georgia and two in Texas. York continues to share his passion through Museum of Dog and plans to next open a dog-friendly restaurant in Massachusetts.
York grew up in Memphis, Tennessee and dedicated his early career to fashion, developing private-label merchandise, including Aeropostale. He has fully segued into the dog world and continues to hunt for incredible, inspiring, and touching pieces that speak to our relationship with dogs.
Upcoming exhibits include, Seismic Dogs of New Madrid. These pieces will focus on the selfless acts of canines that risk their lives to find survivors in the critical hours after an earthquake.
Bring your furry friend on down to the Museum of Dog and let him take in all of the sights and smells of a special space fully dedicated to the love of dogs.
Canadian recording artist, Joel Thomas Zimmerman (aka Deadmau5) is famous for his house music and for his love of the adorable Prof. Meowingtons, PhD. The kitty appears regularly on Zimmerman’s social media accounts and connects rather well with the producer’s mouse image. Meowingtons has always reveled in his “only child” status, but this has all come to a grinding halt as Deadmau5 has brought home a new kitten.
Deadmau5 introduced the new kitten, still in its carrier, during a video posted on Instagram. The tiny kitten, named Noob, gave a few precious and quiet mews that melted everyone’s hearts.
In a subsequent video, Zimmerman captured Meowingtons’ first encounter with Noob. After a few curious sniffs and hesitant steps, Meowingtons saunters away from his new sibling. Disinterested or overcome with emotion? We may never know.
Meowington is going to have to accept the fact that there’s a new kitten in the Deadmau5 house. Delightfully, Deadmau5’s fans will get to follow the adventures of two cats!
Do you have a favorite Disney character? Mickey Mouse is definitely my number one. When I lived in Orlando, I would visit this park all the time. I thought nothing of standing in line for two hours just to get Mickey’s autograph. Going to Disney World was magical for me as a child, and it appears that these canines agree.
While part of the the visit was reserved for training, these four service heroes had plenty of downtime to take in the sights and smells of Disney World. You can tell from the smiles on their faces that this is, indeed, one of the happiest places on Earth. The pups are members of Canine Companions for Independence, (CCI) a California non-profit organization that trains service animals and provides them at no cost to people with disabilities.
A group of volunteers took the puppies on a field trip to Disney in order to test exposure to multi-sensory demands. These dogs took it all in stride, enjoying the socializing with strangers and the energy of Disney World. It was a great learning experience and an enriching day for the canines that are working hard to become excellent service animals.
Volunteers raise the puppies for eighteen months before the dogs move on to receive professional training at one of CCI’s regional training centers. Here, they learn to: pick up dropped items and return them to their handlers, open and close doors and drawers, turn lights on and off; and many more helpful tasks.
These lucky Disney dogs explored the park, mingled with visitors, and even enjoyed some rides. They spent quality time with Disney characters – their reaction to meeting Pluto was priceless!
The trip was 100% successful and CCI plans to continue training at Disney World. The end goal of the training protocol is to create dogs with the temperament and stamina to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. These service dogs are more than workers; lucky recipients build a relationship with the canines that is life changing for both parties.
If you are interested in learning how to become a puppy raiser, or want to inquire about adopting a service canine, visit the Canine Companions for Independencewebsite. And perhaps the next time you visit “the happiest place on Earth,” you will be lucky enough to see these beauties in training.
With calm, unconditional love, and non-judgement, these dogs bring peace after a tragedy.
By Justyne Yuen-Lee
Marjan Iravani, a witness to the attack, hugs therapy dog, Buddy. Credit: Toronto Star / CARLOS OSORIO
Therapy dogs arrived at Mel Lastman Square (Toronto) this past week to comfort the community following a devastating van attack. It was one week ago, on April 23, 2018, that a man claimed 10 lives and injured 14 others. A shocked city initially gathered its courage under the hashtag #TorontoStrong. Now, witnesses, and those who barely escaped, must deal with the trauma. To help this process, St. John Ambulance therapy dogs offer their warm and fluffy bodies for hugs and petting.
The dogs briefly filled the sombre street with hope. Marjan Iravani, a witness to the attack, told reporters that after the accident, “the terrible feeling” just became worse with each passing day. Buddy, the Golden Retriever, gave her some peace, as she stroked his fur.
Buddy’s wagging tail and excited jumps brought squeals and cuddles from people passing the Square. Even employees, from businesses close by, rushed to the square with the news that dogs were in the area.
Buddy’s handler, Barbara Ruhr, frequently brings Buddy and Charley to visit the sick, the elderly, the lonely, and also to children’s rehabilitation centers. In Barbara’s experience, each person is different in terms of what they need from the dog. Some chat, while others silently enjoy the loving, non-judgmental comfort that dogs provide.
Ruhr said, “There are no words required because dogs communicate in non-verbal ways. And these therapy animals assume a lot of the stress. That’s why we have to be really careful with our dogs not to overwork them.”
Students from a nearby school joined the square and gathered around a pile of flowers and other tributes in remembrance of a teacher lost in the attack.
These acts of love and kindness work to replace the devastation that the attack brought. Our thoughts go out to the victims and the families of the victims.
Nature photographer, David J. Slater, was a regular in the jungles of Indonesia, with a passionate interest in capturing images of celebes crested macaques. In 2011, these critically endangered monkeys took interest in Slater’s camera that had been mounted on a tripod. They started to play with the remote that controlled image taking and this curiosity resulted in some pretty awesome selfies. One particularly toothy selfie of Naruto, a Macaque who lived on the island of Sulawesi, became very popular on the Internet.
Slater then licensed some of these images to Caters News Agency, which then released them to the British media. Popular publications such as the Daily Mail, The Telegraph, and The Guardian used the photos in a story that claimed the monkeys stole the camera and took the selfies – glamorizing the situation.
According to Slater, the situation didn’t play exactly like that since the camera was mounted on a tripod and each monkey fought to play with the remote. But it was great press and raised awareness for the endangered monkeys.
As the photos gained popularity, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) decided to take Slater to court on behalf of Naruto to fight for Naruto’s rights to the photo.
Reports of animals acting strangely before an earthquake are common. From mass migration to whining/barking, and swimming violently, animals seem to be onto something way before humans. But, can we find out why? Perhaps we could tap into the same changes they are reading? Though there is a wealth of anecdotal reports and studies of pre-Earthquake behavior, science has not statistically connected behavioral changes to the onset of an earthquake.
In a comprehensive survey, researchers from the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences collected 180 studies; covering 729 reports of unusual behavior prior to 160 earthquakes. They analyzed the data according to quake’s magnitude and distance, “foreshock” activity, and the quality of the study.
The paper, published as Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America, is the first of its kind to attempt to quantify statistical data as it applies to animal behavior before an earthquake.
After sifting through the large volume of data, researchers found most evidence was limited to a single observation before the earthquake. To be statistically relevant, the animals populations in the data would have had to be followed over an extended period of time. Longer study would be able to pinpoint unusual responses within the populations that could rule out, or verify, an animal’s ability to sense an earthquake coming.
Inevitably, items around the house start to be claimed by our pets as chew toys. Socks? The dog claims all the mismatched ones. Underwear? Doesn’t matter if clean or dirty, in fact, the latter is preferred. Stuffies? Well, that’s where this St. Bernard got into a spot of trouble.
When Maisy was 8-years old, she went into surgery to remove her spleen for suspected cancer. Instead, the vet discovered four completely intact teddy bears inside Maisy’s stomach!
The original CT scan had shown masses in the stomach plus a mass on the spleen that lead to the diagnosis of probable cancer. The vet, Nick Blackburn, definitely did not expect to find the toys in this big girl’s stomach.
Maisy made a full recovery and all reports came back showing no signs of cancer! According to her owner, Jane Dickinson, Maisy’s teddy bear snacks came from her Chihuahua siblings.
A new study, published in the scientific journal Microbiome, has found that humans share gut microbiome similarities with dogs. In fact, we are closer to dogs than pigs; the latter has been the traditional comparison for human nutritional research. This discovery may lead to more efficient studies for human and canine weight loss.
Researchers at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory partnered with Nestlé Purina Research for a study that involved 32 Beagles and 32 Labrador Retrievers. Half of each breed were overweight, while the other half was considered to be a healthy weight.
All dogs were fed the same food for four weeks. Their poop was then collected and analyzed. This is the simplest way to get a baseline for intestinal microbe populations (flora). The dogs were then randomly distributed into two groups: those eating a high carb/low protein diet and those eating the opposite.
After the poop was collected and microbe populations analyzed, it was found that leaner pooches experienced little change in gut flora. This is how a healthy gut should respond and it solidifies existing evidence that obesity results in changes to gut populations.
One researcher, Jack Gilbert (University of Chicago Microbiome Center), believes that the most newsworthy aspect of the study was that the DNA analysis uncovered similar gut microbe populations between humans and dogs. It is, perhaps, not surprising, as evidence of our close relationship with dogs can be found in early human records. We have always shared food and resources, which could be clues as to why our health and weight mirror one another.
This discovery will affect how dog-food makers create their recipes to improve canine digestive health. It will also enhance human dietary studies as it’s not possible to give humans the exact same food for months on end. Dogs, however, thrive on it.
When one thinks of the British monarchy and pets, one of the first things that comes to mind is Queen Elizabeth trailed by her pack of Corgis. When her majesty was just 18-years old, she was gifted her first Corgi, named Susan. It is a sad day for this great monarch as the last of Susan’s descendants, Willow, has passed away at the age of 14. The 91-year-old queen is said to have been “hit hard” with the loss.
Last year, the Queen made the decision not to add any more Corgis to her family, in part for fear of tripping over them, but also with respect to her age and not wanting to leave them alone when she passes. She made an exception, however, when the Keeper of The Queen’s Corgis died, followed quickly by her husband. You could say the Queen returned the favor when she adopted their Corgi, Whisper.
Royal dogs, Vulcan and Candy, both Dorgis (Corgi-Dachshund mixes) are still companions to the Queen. The loss of Willow, however, signifies a sad milestone in Her Majesty’s life.
Artist Cindy Lass was commissioned by Her Majesty to paint the Corgis. Credit: Cindy Lass
The Corgis are an iconic part of the Queen’s public persona and were a significant part of her life. Some would say “Corgi” is synonymous with Queen Elizabeth. Visitors to the palace shops can even purchase stuffed versions of the Corgis.
Willow had an exciting life outside of the palace too. She starred in a mini-movie with Daniel Craig that showed at the 2012 Olympic games. This beautiful pup was also the subject of photoshoots with American photographer Annie Leibiovitz’s in portraits with the Queen.
With instant photo apps right at your fingertips, you can easily share that perfect moment with friends, family, and your online community. Is that amazing sunset in the woods just too perfect to keep to yourself? You can take a snapshot of it for others to enjoy and upload in real time. Cynthia and Andre are harnessing the power of the Internet to delight others with their adventures in Colorado with pets, Henry and Baloo.
Cynthia felt she may be over-posting photos of her dog, Henry, on her personal Instagram, and started a dedicated account for him. Stunning snapshots of hikes in all kinds of weather attracted thirty thousand followers over three years.
But recently, that number has exploded to almost 600 hundred thousand – beyond anything Cynthia ever expected. The catalyst for this intense Internet love was the introduction of Baloo, the kitty.
Henry, a rescue, is a mix of high energy breeds: Shepherd, Husky, Boxer, Staffordshire Terrier, Aussie. He loves his adventures but shows signs of extreme separation anxiety when Cynthia and Andre are at work. It got to the point that Henry wouldn’t even eat.
As animal lovers, we hope for the best practices when it comes to finding a new dog to add to the family. We preach the mantra “Adopt Don’t Shop” to people considering the pet parent lifestyle. And if adopting isn’t an option, we suggest research on reputable breeders who go above and beyond expectation to provide their clients with the healthiest pets and the dogs with a cruelty-free life.
In our for-profit world, it is easy to slip toward the extreme notion that all breeders are constantly overbreeding for the almighty dollar and use dogs as a means to an end. Inside this story-line, the heroes become the rescuers who go to any length to save dogs from puppy mills. This is not always true.
And thus we arrive at the “puppy mill rescue” or “auction rescue” practice. Rescue groups, fuelled by donations from supporters, participate in auctions to buy dogs with the hopes to remove them from the breeding cycle. Then these groups rehome the “rescued” dogs.
But are they really rescues and is this practice weakening the industry or supporting it?
Dog auctions were once a place where breeders would sell the dogs that were of “no use” to them. Rescuers would buy them for a low price and rehome them.
However, these “auction rescues” now generate almost forty percent of auction income according to Bob Hughes, owner of Southwest Auction Services. Breeders will now save their puppies for auctions since rescuers will pay more than brokers.
Taking a quick scroll through my various social media feeds, I see a lot of funny things, interesting things, and infuriating things. The most infuriating subject, for me, is animal abuse; it sparks a rage that makes me wish negative consequences to the guilty human. A trend on the Internet is to take that outrage and engage in a mob-mentality public shaming. If the issue is particularly hot-button, these threads will become borderline harassment and a lot of emotional damage can be done in a post that contains less than 280 characters.
Sometimes good things come out of viral outrage, for example, a video of a young boy throwing a kitten into oncoming traffic went viral on Twitter and resulted in the notification of police. The minor was swiftly identified and dealt with accordingly.
However, when Jeremy Quaile’s dog was found dead in a hot car in Calgary, Alberta, the Internet shaming had devastating consequences. Five months after the accident, Quaile took his own life.
Quaile struggled with alcoholism and stated he had no recollection of how Knightley ended up in the car. According to his mother, Quaile loved Knightley with all of his heart. Jeremy Quaile had fallen on difficult times recently, losing his job and engaging in binge drinking that would often result in him losing track of Knightley.
Jeremy was charged under Calgary’ Animal Protection act with the offense of causing an animal distress. The Humane Society posted a press release about this charge on Facebook.
The Facebook post (now deleted) garnered a mass of comments – mostly negative. Online strangers made comments saying that Quaile didn’t deserve to live or should also be locked in a hot car and left to suffocate.
Quaile made attempts to tell his side of his story, responding to comments saying that he didn’t know how she ended up in the car. But he couldn’t respond to the rapid influx and eventually, he gave up. Five months after the charge, Quaile had passed away.
Every unexpected death is a tragedy. And bullying another human being into a state of hopelessness is an ongoing problem on the Internet. In an average day, I see at least three posts dealing with vigilante rage targeting negligent pet owners.
A video of a woman abandoning her dogs on the street went viral on an influencer’s page. Just as with Quaile, the Internet quickly demanded her head on a spike.
Another post, including photos of a woman kicking her dog in Toronto, Canada went viral with similar result. This time, however, comments were “just” suggesting violence rather than outright death.
As awful as these animal abuse stories are, we still have the responsibility of trying to comprehend the entire scenario. The woman who was caught kicking her dog, according to one of the comments, was believed to be drunk. Perhaps she also had a mental health issue or substance abuse problem, as was the case with Jeremy Quaile.
This is not to excuse abusive behavior toward animals, but a call to exercise caution and empathy when it comes to posting on the Internet. Consider volunteering with, or donating to, your local animal shelter to help rescue vulnerable animals trapped in unstable situations.
Let’s face it, when you bring home a new, fluffy addition to the family, you get the good and the not so good as you settle in together. The not so good includes: bathroom accidents, projectile vomit of foreign objects you thought were out of reach, gnawed on wall corners, and probably an inordinate amount of fur spread about. But, with routine and proper training, these accidents will become less frequent.
When you live communally, like in a condo situation, there are some accidents that irritate other residents and the condo Board. Irritation is amplified when pet owners dismiss responsibility for the mess because it happens in a communal area. This has prompted a Canadian condo to charge a fee for all dog owners to pay for the extra care in solving these problems.
A Toronto condo building has made motion to enforce a $15 monthly fee to dog owners to “offset” the cleaning costs that come from pet-related messes being left behind.
In a notice from the property manager, the Board of Directors announced that they would be implementing a new pet rule; tenants would have thirty days to organize a meeting to challenge it.
Audrey Loeb, a condo law expert in Toronto, says that this rule will not be enforceable. It seems that selectively choosing a group to pay a fee is not legally valid.
Rent in Toronto, residents argue, is already barely affordable and adding $15 would be “insane”. Although it would be ideal to just charge the offending parties, there doesn’t seem to be a way to confirm the culprits.
Do you think an extra cleaning fee is justified? Let us know in the comments!
There’s just something about the Dachshund’s tiny, long body and four stumpy legs! Everything about them just screams, “put me in a bun!”. They don’t just look cute, Dachshunds are also super cuddly and oh so soft. They have velvety ears and a long body that makes for especially relaxing pats.
If you already loved Dachshunds before, then you don’t need any further convincing to go to Passau, Germany for a visit to the one of a kind Dackelmuseum. With over 4500 doxie items on display (like, stamps, art, toys, figurines, instruments and more), it’s a Dachshund heaven!
The men behind Dackelmuseum, Josef Küblbeck and Oliver Storz, have been collecting wiener-dog memorabilia for over 25 years. They even have their own real-life Dachshunds, Seppi and Moni.
According to Küblbeck, the world needed a sausage dog museum, so a sausage dog museum he created. Storz and Küblbeck gave up florist careers to open this awesome museum.
It’s fitting that the Dackelmuseum is opening in Germany as Dachshunds were first bred there as tiny hunter dogs in the 17th century. They were designed to get into badger burrows. The breed rose in popularity so much so that Waldi the Dachshund was in the 1972 Munich Olympics!
Zac Efron has starred in a lot of movies since High School Musical, but as far as I’m concerned, he could have stopped right there. Zac can be shirtless in countless movies, but my adolescent heart will always see Troy Bolton, conflicted basketball player turned singer, in love with Gabriella. Sigh. Reminiscent of the power to steal pre-teen hearts in 2006, Zac stole all the hearts when he posted photos of his new rescue on Twitter and Instagram.
Barks n’ Bitches’ Instagram post read, “Tilly, now MACA, was being led to the kill room when we stepped in and said we would take her. She was turned around and brought to us! This guy named Zac Efron came in (we hear he is an actor, but we think he actually waits tables) came in and fell in love. He went through our application process and fostered MACA and just could not give her back. So MACA now lives with Zac! This is her happily ever after! Happy life MACA! Happy Life.”
Zac’s Instagram his caption was a simple, “Hey planet ?, this is MACA. #adoptdontshop.” If Bark n’ Bitches sounds familiar, it’s because that’s where singer Khalid adopted his puppy last year!
On his Instagram story, Zac posted videos of Maca learning how to sit; plus more adorable photos of some good ol’ cuddles.
Fur patterns and facial features create a lot of happy accidents that make pets especially endearing, and sometimes famous. There was a Shiba-Inu puppy, born with a perma-pout and Tardar Sauce, aka Grumpy Cat. There have been pups and kitties born with heart-shaped splotches on their bodies and even Chimera cats that look like two cats in one. The latest Internet sensation is Madame Eyebrows, of Germany. She is a pup with big, bold, sad “eyebrow” markings over her eyes.
But, it’s not just the eyebrows – Madame Eyebrows has a naturally downturned mouth that makes you just want to scoop her up and whisper happy thoughts into her fur. Still, the “sad” face has attracted almost 40 thousand followers on Instagram because it’s so dang cute!
Now, as she’s getting older and more seasoned, her face easily translates into gorgeous “artsy” shots that any sad human would struggle to feign!
Snapshots with a dying bouquet of roses and that “sad” face rack up the likes on Instagram. In reality, Madame Eyebrows probably just sniffed the petals like any other curious pup.
But truly, Madame Eyebrows was just born looking sad even though her life is splendidly happy. You can follow Madam on Instagram to see all the sad adventures!
Every time it appears the cuteness factor for latte art has peaked, something tops it! At first, hearts in our foam impressed us, then flowers, then birds, then actual cartoon characters and THEN a selfie floating atop our foam! Now, In Taiwan, food-stagrammers flock to Mr. R Drinks café to get a gorgeous shot of the delicious and adorable Shiba Inu latte!
The café offers various unique milk-tea flavors, like rose, matcha, and sakura. The biggest attraction, however, rests with the Shiba-shaped marshmallow that snuggles on top of your drink.
Shiba marshmallows come in different colors, like pink, brown, and black. Whatever your mood, whatever the weather, you can match a Shiba to your latte to boost your Instagram aesthetic.
Fortuitously for Mr. R Drinks, 2018 is the year of the dog. What better way to celebrate and spread the luck than to share a Shiba-adorned drink and a red pocket?
When two giant Internet personalities collide, it’s like having your favorite recording artists collaborate on a song. This might be a millennial thing, but when two giant pup-fluencers, like Marnie The Dog and Matt Nelson, get together, the dog community rejoices! If you love dogs, this is your day because we just got so many adorable doggy photos.
You might be asking, “Marnie who?” or “Matt Nelson who?” Well, Marnie the Dog is a 16-year-old Shih Tzu rescue who stole the Internet’s heart with her tilted head and permanently lolling tongue. With over 2 million followers on Instagram, her own book, and website, a doll, and hundreds of other bits of merchandising, this celebrity dog pops up all over the Internet and befriends human and dog celebrities alike.
Matt Nelson is the human behind the oh-so-popular Twitter account @dog_rates. Dog rates takes photos of dogs and rates them on a scale of one to ten. Most dogs, however, score an 11 or even 13! The account started as funny quips from a bored college student but has morphed into its own dog rating empire. @Dog_rates has almost 7 million followers, a book, an app, and even a popular online store. And its founder is only 21!
One sunny day at Corgi Beach Day in South California, Matt got to meet Marnie and this was but one of the highlights. Marnie, wearing her best Hawaiian shirt, captioned her photo, “Having lunch w @matt___nelson he rates dogs”.
As for Marnie, she got cuddles from all her fans and photo ops with other doggos at the beach party. These doggy beach days need to be on the regular! So cute!
Doggy parent and fashion designer, Marc Jacobs, popped the question to model, Charly DeFrancesco, in a New York Chipotle last week. The couple, who have been publicly dating since late 2015, now plan to join their dog crew in legal matrimony in what will no doubt be an amazing wedding. Marc’s dogs, Neville (English Bull Terrier) and Charlie (French Bulldog), are already familiar with Charly’s Pit Bull mix, Lady.
Like any dream proposal, Jacobs got down on one knee during a flash mob performance to Prince’s Kiss. He even proposed on DeFrancesco’s birthday! Too sweet! Both men posted the video on their Instagram with Marc calling Charly his ‘Ride or Die fiancé’.
The designer’s English Bull Terrier, Neville, has jumped into the newest and funniest trend of “dogs in food.” The image called “being an almond” is one of Marc’s personal favorites.
Kittens, like all baby animals, are all sorts of fun as they discover the world and explore everything, including your fingertips. They are innocent and full of gentle wonder, just like human children. Things can change when they grow up – I’ve encountered some adult cats that immediately hiss at me and swat at my face. On the other hand, I’ve met cats that saunter over and start rubbing their body against my leg.
So, what is it that makes a kitty friendly when they grow up? According to Claire Bessant, the CEO of International Cat Care, there are many ways to help shape a kitten into a well-balanced adult; it’s about stopping unwanted behaviors early. By doing so, you can even get them to stop using your furniture as an overpriced scratching post!
It’s adorable when kittens dangle off your finger…when they’re three pounds and have baby teeth. But once they start growing, it gets less cute and more painful. Bessant advises to use toys instead of fingers so that cats don’t see your hands and feet as playthings. If your cats nip when they start to get excited, settle them down by walking away so they learn not to get attention from biting.
If someone came to pick me up periodically in a black van and brought me to the dentist (or something equally unbearable), I would also dread the sight of the van. In the same way, if cats only see the cat carrier as a vet trip, they’ll know to hide in the very tight corners of your home. To prevent this, keep the carrier out regularly so your kitten knows what it is. Let your kitten play and eat in it too! This way the carrier will have your kitten’s scent in it.
Cats need to sharpen their claws and mark their territory and don’t give a rat’s –ahem- butt where they do. Bessant suggests introducing kittens to a sturdy scratching post as early as possible. Since kittens don’t start scratching until five or six months, you can use this time to help them mark their scent on the designated post. This way, they will gravitate toward it more than your expensive lounge chairs.
The rapid changes in technology are hard to keep up with! I remember when I got the iPhone 4 and was first brought into the fold of the Apple family. Now I have an iPhone 7, and the latest Apple gadgets have moved on up from there. I wonder what cellphone advances will come by the time my son graduates from high school, in 4 years.
Technology also facilitates our daily living, like innovative gadgets to help our pets. For example, there is a ball that you can control, remotely, with a touch of your phone; there are self-filling dishes, pet water fountains, even automated ball-tossers. Now, Dutch engineer, Arkaitz Garro, has created a one-of-a-kind interface for cat lovers.
The device recognizes when your outdoor adventurous kitty would like to come inside. Usually, your cat is left to stare through the window or paw at the door until your attention can be caught. Well, now your cat can send you a text that they would like to come inside. Garro’s gadget uses Slack’s messaging app to relay the message from the device to your phone.
Garro’s idea was inspired by a friendship he developed with a cat that lived a few houses away from him and his wife. The cat developed a schedule, visiting Garro’s house at specific times during the day. When the cat arrive on Garro’s porch, he would stare at the door until he was granted entrance.
Garro designed a gadget with a camera that could use motion-detection and image-recognition Artificial Intelligence (AI) software to determine that the cat is outside the door and waiting to be let into the house.
“We wanted to be notified when he was around so we could open the back door for him, as we don’t have a cat-door,” said Garro. Garro doesn’t have a cat-flap at his house so every time the cat wants to come inside, it has to wait until Garro or his wife notice the cat is waiting at the door.
“When it detects movement, it sends the picture to a recognition software, that checks against the identity of the cat based on previous imagery of the cat,” added Garro. If the software recognizes that this is the correct cat, the owner will receive a push notification message on their phone.
The gadget also comes with an Amazon service called AWS Recognition which, at no cost, recognizes over 5000 images each month. “It took me a few hours to put all the pieces together and the software up and running, but also some more time after to fine tune the software to be able to recognize the cat,” said Garro. According to the Dutch engineer the device’s setup only cost $50 USD and takes a few hours to assemble. He adds it is almost 100% reliable when the cat is looking at the camera.
One of the lesser known signs of spring is letting a dog outside and he fails to scoot right back in. This beautiful season means longer days and warmer temperatures and time to relax outdoors. My dog’s face when she sees the sun and the nice weather is priceless! She runs around the living room with joy when I tell her “Let’s go outside”.
Another sign of spring is the “deep clean.” There is nothing like a freshly cleaned home! Our pets enjoy it too – a clean environment keeps pets healthy and happy.
Here are 10 essential spring cleaning tips for pet owners:
Even though the expiry period for most animal food and snacks is a long one, it doesn’t hurt to check the best-by date for food and snacks. The last thing you want is your pet to get sick from spoiled food. The couple of minutes it takes you to check your pet’s pantry are totally worth it.
How many times do you clean your pet’s bowl? We studiously make sure the food and water bowls are filled, but how often do we remove built up saliva and bacteria? According to study from the National Safety Federation, pet food bowls are the fourth germiest item in a house. Two of the top were the kitchen cloth and remote control.
To get rid of these germs, wash your pet’s bowl with hot water and mild soap or use a 50% water and 50% vinegar solution. It is recommended to wash their bowls on a daily basis.
It usually follows that if your family is happy, you are happy. This includes pets, an important part of a satisfying and meaningful home life. One of the greatest pleasures in having a fur baby is spoiling him or her. It’s a delight to see their little faces when you shower them with treats and toys. Who doesn’t like to get spoiled? Right?
These are some of our favorite ways to spoil our furry friends:
Kids love to have play dates with their friends and even sleepovers; your pet enjoys the same! Dogs get to know their canine friends by engaging in play. Invite a doggy friend over for an afternoon of romping through the park or even the yard. Your devoted companion will thank you with a lick or a snuggle on the couch after a stimulating (and exhausting) time mingling with friends.
A lovely and simple way of showing love to your pet is to provide a comfy bed. Dogs and cats need naps throughout the day, and you can make sure they have the best place to curl up in. They will appreciate this gesture of love as they snuggle down into sweet dreams.
Dogs enjoy visiting new places just as much as we do. I love eating at a new restaurant and meeting new people in novel circumstances. So, how about taking your pet to explore with you in a new park in the city or a pet-friendly restaurant? Another great idea is to have a picnic with your pet. Invite some friends with dogs to round this out into the best play date ever!
The more you learn, the wiser you become and the more you are engaged in life. One of my goals for this year is to achieve my French language certificate. Dogs also like to learn new tricks and then please you by showing them off. Engaging their brains in learning and play will keep pets from getting bored. There are lots of resources online, and in the library, if you need ideas on how to teach tricks to your dog. Reward them with praise after performing each trick to make them a very happy dog!
You need to make sure you dedicate to them the time they deserve; your pet needs one-on-one time every day. You don’t want them to feel ignored or bored because this will often lead to mischief. For example, you can set a regular time in the evening for play. It doesn’t have to be hours every day, but remember that quality is more important than quantity. Just make sure your pet feels loved!
My dog is the happiest dog in the world when I tell her “Let’s go to the car”. You can go for a ride through the neighborhood or even to the closest park, and why not end the trip with a delicious ice cream for you and a treat for your pet?
What is your favorite way of spoiling your pet? Any ideas for fellow pet owners? Share below!
Twelve states already have an official state dog and we think all of them need one!
By Justyne Yuen-Lee
The Lab leads in popularity
We find our identities in a lot of things – horoscopes, birthstones, hobbies, careers, studies, and the list can go on. The search for identity is so extensive that we even spend our time taking quizzes on the Internet to find out what kind of nacho chip we are! Personally, I can think of no more telling quiz than “What kind of dog are you?” I feel like most of us would retake it until we arrived at our favorite breed. Well, Ohio is facing one such dog identity crisis, but appears to have settled on the Labrador Retriever as their official state dog! Now, that’s a good choice!
Jeff Rezabek, the Republican representative behind House Bill 539, proposed this fun bill to celebrate his last term in office. Labrador Retrievers have been a part of Rezabek’s family over the years and he thinks the breed represents Ohio perfectly.
He said, “Ohio is the heart of it all and the Labrador is the heart of your home.” The American Kennel Club contacted him to give their support! The AKC has named the Labrador the top breed for 26 years in a row!
If the bill passes, the Lab joins other state symbols like the Isotelus Trilobite, the state fossil, and “Hang on Sloopy”, the state’s rock song.
Here are the other states that have official state dogs:
Every state choice has relevance to the way the people of that region represent themselves. Alaska, for example, chose the Malamute – a dog used in mushing (the official state sport). And Maryland chose the Chesapeake Bay Retriever as this dog was first bred in Chesapeake Bay. Other states chose state dogs based on hunting skill, University mascots, or temperament. If you were a state, which dog would represent you?
We sure hope House Bill 539 passes – doggos are a good identifier!
What is the weirdest, most unique, most incredibly cute trick in your dog’s repertoire? I love dog tricks! I have tried to teach some to my dog, but have had limited success. I am not giving up, though, especially after seeing these wonder dogs in action!
One of the favorite books that I enjoy with my son is the Guinness World Records. We love reading about the strange and creative talents people and animals possess from around the world. Everybody wants their fifteen minutes of fame and these dogs have certainly found their time!
Here are some of our favorite record holding animals:
Zeus is the tallest dog in history. This Great Dane from Otsego, Michigan measured 44 inches (1.1 metres) tall. Although Zeus passed away in 2004, he has held this title posthumously since 2011. According to the Guinness World Records, the average lifespan for a Great Dane is just six to eight years old; Zeus died at the age of 6.
Fastest 30 Meters on a Scooter by a Dog
What an interesting record! I would love to go see this dog ride a scooter, but for now, we can enjoy it on video. In 2013, Norman, a French sheepdog, broke a world record for his dog speed-scooting abilities. At the age of 3, he rode a scooter for a distance of around 100 feet in less than 21 seconds; he beat the previous record holder by more than nine seconds!
The canine world is a beautiful place of so many experiences; the more I write and learn about dogs, the more I fall in love with them. There are hundreds of dog breeds, each with unique characteristics and temperaments. These translate into a visual treat of colors, sizes, and textures. Have you wondered the result of combining some of these distinctive dog breeds? Wonderful things! In fact, the annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, which is like the Oscars for dogs, has a category dedicated to mixed breed dogs, otherwise known as “mutts”.
Enjoy this roundup of some of our favorite combinations. They are just adorable! Let us know which one is your favorite. Yes, you can even pick more than one…
The Pitsky is the mix between an American Pit Bull Terrier and a Siberian or Alaskan Husky. They are the perfect companion for dog owners who enjoy being active and engaged with their pet; Pitskies get frustrated if left alone for long periods of time.
How adorable! I want one. This dog is your best bet if you can’t decide between a Chihuahua and a Pug. In return, you will have the best of both worlds. Chugs are great for families with children, as well as seniors. They are very affectionate and learn tricks fast. They are very playful and enjoy daily walks.
Yoranians are also known as “Porkie” or “Yorkie-Pom”, are as affectionate as Yorkshire Terriers and as energetic as Pomeranian. These cute dogs can weigh between 3 to 7 pounds and live up to 15 years. Porkies, which are a recognized type of “designer dog”, love to exercise and don’t enjoy being left alone for a long time. They respond well to training and are very friendly and playful.
Slopestyle and freestyle Olympic skier brings home canine gold
By Justyne Yuen-Lee
Credit: Humane Society International / Dario Ayala
The Winter Olympics (2018) have ended and Olympians from all over the world have returned home, riding high off the opportunity to participate in such an event. Some very special athletes, like American Gus Kenworthy, took this opportunity one step further. Kenworthy, and others athletes, visited dog meat farms while in South Korea, and became part of the rescue operation.
Credit: Humane Society International / Lee Jae-Won
Gus Kenworthy, a freestyle skier from Colorado, helped rescue a Jindo-Husky mix puppy that he named Beemo. The Humane Society International (HSI) works in South Korea and has already rescued over 1200 dogs and closed 10 dog meat farms. They got a needed boost with Olympic interest shining on them.
Kenworthy wasn’t the only athlete to save a pup from the meat farms; Canadian figure skater, Meagan Duhamel rescued Moo-tae and he now lives with her in Montreal.
Beemo was one of 80 dogs rescued from a farm close to South Korea’s capital, Seoul. The HSI campaign to end this practice of caging and eating dogs started early last year with 200 dogs saved from a single farm.
Credit: Humane Society International / Dario Ayala
HSI not only rescues the dogs and rehomes them, the organization also helps transition the farmers to a new businesses of growing profitable crops, such as chili peppers or mushrooms.
Contrary to popular belief, the dog meat industry is dying, almost totally reliant on an older generation who erroneously believes in its health benefits. With HSI’s help, these dog meat farmers will be able to adapt to new practices that are sustainable and humane.
We hope Beemo lives the best life with her new dads, Gus and Matthew!
