I've been following Dog Time's multi part series about No-Kill with interest. Fascinating stuff. Then I saw yesterday's piece: "There are no responsible breeders." I read it, waiting for the twist, waiting for some clarification on the idea, and then I got to the end and realized that the author meant it, as is, in all sincerity. Even responsible breeders who genuinely love and want the best for their animals you ask? I know this statement will raise some hackles, but it needs to be ... Read more »
working dogs
Happy Memorial Day!
Today I learned that a mere 30 minute drive from my house is the only private war memorial devoted to canine heroes, at the Rancho Coastal Humane Society. The Department of Defense is doggedly (sorry) opposed to official recognition of canine veterans, according to US War Dogs Association Head Ron Aiello, out of concern that it would detract from the accomplishments of the human honorees. I fully admit I am not an expert on military life. I have not served in the military or lived with a ... Read more »
On breed and health and what we love best
I'll finish recapping the AKC Eukanuba experience this week (in between building my gingerbread houses and working on the 12 Days and all the other things that manage to pile on this time of year), but I wanted to deviate for one moment into this large cloud that looms over any sort of dog discussion, and that is the vast and gaping chasm separating two equally passionate groups of pet enthusiasts. I had some very interesting conversations with some of my fellow bloggers at the conference ... Read more »
Happy Memorial Day
From I has a hotdog ... Read more »
Service Dogs and the ADA conundrum
When I was in vet school, I attended a guest lecture by a trainer for Guide Dogs for the Blind. As a part of the lecture, we watched a video on the training process these dogs must pass. It was unbelievable, what they had to learn and master in order to graduate. "We take this very seriously," said the trainer as we saw a dog being trained to sit quietly in an airliner simulator. "If these dogs don't behave well in any circumstance we can think of, not only do they put their people at risk, ... Read more »
