Tag: Sunday dog

Dog and Cat Books for Holiday Gifts

This has been a great year for new books about dogs. And, I have been reading and listening to some old favorite books and audiobooks starring cats.

Dog Books This Year

Off the Leash: A Year at the Dog Park by Boston Globe TV critic Matthew Gilbert was a hit with me and with many of my dog loving friends. Matthew was not a dog person until his husband convinced him that they needed a dog in their life. And, he was not much of a people person until he became part of the community at a dog park. The book is a tale of the transition and what he describes as, “… the strange, wonderful, neurotic, and eccentric dog people who gather daily at Amory Park, overlooking Boston.”

Travels With Casey by Benoit Denizet-Lewis is a most enjoyable travelogue of the author’s four month trip across this country with his Labrador Retriever.

On a more serious note, I learned much from Animal Madness: How Anxious Dogs, Compulsive Parrots, and Elephants in Recovery Help Us Understand Ourselves by science historian Laurel Braitman.

Old Favorite Cat Tales

Boston son Cleveland Amory became known as, ”… the founding father of the modern animal protection movement.” He chronicled his transition from social critic to a man who spent the rest of his life devoted to animals in a series of books about Snowball – the cat he rescued from a Manhattan street in 1977.

The books, beginning with The Cat Who Came for Christmas (most appropriate for this time of year), next the The Cat and the Curmudgeon, and then The Best Cat Ever.

At the library and still in bookstores, you can find another cat biographical series by Peter Gethers. He tells the tale of Norton, the Scottish Fold, who traveled the world with him. That series begins with, The Cat Who Went to Paris.

And, for those who love mysteries, eccentric people, and cats, there is "The Cat Who…" series from the late Massachusetts resident Lilian Jackson Braun. These books and some of the others mentioned here are available in various formats: hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook.

Here are direct links to the books on Amazon.

Details:

Words: Penny Cherubino – previously published as one of her City Paws newspaper columns.

Artwork: Courtesy of the publishers.

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Benny and the Salmon & Why You Shouldn't Feed Raw Salmon to Dogs

Tips for Dealing with Uncontrolled Dogs

December 7, 2014
Benny and the Salmon & Why You Shouldn’t Feed Raw Salmon to Dogs

I went looking for a photo of a dog with a salmon, so that I could share what I've learned about feeding salmon to dogs.

I was so happy when I found a great photo by Duncan Brown of Benny nose-to-nose with a beautiful salmon.

Each time I make a trip to Mayflower Poultry in Cambridge to pick up my order of ground meat and bones for our Westie Poppy's food, I stop New Deal Fish across the street to buy some great seafood. One day I mentioned that I could add fish as the second protein in my dog's diet and the fishmonger suggested I let him know and he could save scraps of salmon for me. (He was unaware of the problem, as I was, and was grateful when I shared the research with him on my next visit.)

Don't Feed Raw Salmon!

Somewhere in the back of my mind, I remembered my friend Liz's warning about feeding raw salmon. I did a bit of research and, as usual, she was right.

Washington State University's College of Veterinary Medicine devotes a page to the topic of Salmon Poisoning.

They say:

"Salmon Poisoning Disease is a potentially fatal condition seen in dogs that eat certain types of raw fish. Salmon (salmonid fish) and other anadromous fish (fish that swim upstream to breed) can be infected with a parasite called Nanophyetus salmincola."

A list of symptoms and how your veterinarian would treat the disease is included on their page.

If you want your dog to have the benefits of salmon, which are many, make sure it is fully cooked. You can poach it in a bit of water, steam it, or sauté in olive oil. But, be sure it is cooked all the way to the center to kill any parasites and bacteria that might harm your dog.

(Here's Benny's beautiful face in another photo by Duncan Brown.)

A Bit About Mayflower's RAW Diet or BARF Orders.

I mentioned Mayflower Poultry at the start of this post. I've been feeding my Poppy with products from them for more than two years and have nothing but praise for this wonderful company and the great people who work there.

Each friday morning, Luis (that's his smiling face in the photo) grinds special orders for people who feed their dogs raw diets. You need to phone with your order in advance. I always call on Thursday of the week I plan to make food and pick up my freshly ground food after noon on Friday. Here's their BARF webpage.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Thanks to everyone who Hops over to Amazon from here to do their shopping. We appreciate your support.

Details:
Words: Penny Cherubino
Photography: by Duncan Brown (Here's his photostream) and used under this creative commons license. Mayflower photos are courtesy of Mayflower Poultry.

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November 23, 2014
Tips for Dealing with Uncontrolled Dogs
City neighbors can fall on two sides of a great dog divide. One group controls their dogs on short legal leashes, while the other group’s dogs are off-leash or uncontrolled on illegally long leashes. You’ll know the second group by the often recited cry, “Don’t worry, he’s friendly!” as their uncontrolled dog runs up to you.

But, He’s Friendly …

Yes, your dog may be friendly, but you don’t know what you would need to know about the people or dogs around you to make a long leash or off-leash decision. Trailing the equivalent of one or two car lengths behind your dog, you can’t control what is happening or communicate with people around her.
- A dog being approached may be reactive when on the leash like the one in the illustation above. (It's from the Boston Public Library's 19th Century American Trade Card Collection.)
- Or, your healthy pup may be bouncing toward a dog about to share a contagious disease.
- The person may be out for a quiet dog walk after surgery or injury and may not want your dog exciting their pup.
- Or, the dog may be old and frail and the person with the animal could be worried sick that one fall might be fatal. For years, I walked with a lovely, elderly Afghan named Crystal who was game for a walk but very wobbly. Her friends would form a protective circle around Crystal whenever we saw an uncontrolled dog near her.
What's Legal in Boston?

The city website lays out the rules in detail, “When your dog is off your property, it must be on a leash.” And, a Boston city ordinance is specific about the length of a legal leash saying that your dog must be, “… effectively restrained by a chain or leash not exceeding ten (10') feet in length.”

Your leash length and style should be determined by the size, temperament, and successful training of your dog. Short leashes are needed on crowded sidewalks and in places where you are likely to encounter the fools who don’t control their dogs properly.

Tips on Dealing with Uncontrolled Dogs

Since the problem is the human on the other end of a retractable leash or carrying the leash around their neck, I try not to get angry at the dog. I treat it like an unaccompanied stray. I also put little stock in anything the trailing person is saying. I don’t consider someone who routinely breaks the law as a reliable source of information.
- Protect Your Dog: Step between your dog and the approaching one. If you have a second person with you, one of you can make a U-turn with your dog while the other deals with the problem.
- Give a Command: Step into your strongest alpha dog pose, stand erect, and use your deepest, firmest voice (along with hand signals) and command the approaching dog to stop and sit! I’ve surprised myself at how often this works.
- “Please Control Your Dog:” By now, the person should be close enough for you to take a deep breath and ask them, as politely as you can, to please leash or control their dog.
- Don't get into a debate or discussion with the scofflaw. They will be sure they are right and you are over-reacting.
- Just walk away and remember what Mark Twain was famous for saying, “Never argue with a fool; onlookers may not be able to tell the difference.”
Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Penny Cherubino (previously published as one of her City Paws newspaper columns)

Illustration courtesy of the Boston Public Library's 19th Century American Trade Card Collection (used under this creative commons license. )

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Sunday Dog Bonnie Has a New Sister!

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November 16, 2014
Sunday Dog Bonnie Has a New Sister!

Look who has a new sister! I remember Bonnie, not too long ago, when she first arrived in the neighborhood. She was as cute as any brand new Cavalier King Charles Spaniel could be. Now that Bonnie’s grown into a stunningly beautiful adult, it’s her turn to welcome a new puppy into her life.

Nessie, who is three months old this weekend, seems to enjoy everything about her older sister. And, although it’s not always easy, we’re fairly certain that Bonnie mostly feels the same way.

“M-m-m, Ears Are Delicious”

We ran into this playful pair the other day and marveled at how well Bonnie is learning to accept Nessie as part of the pack.

As you’d expect, Nessie is inquisitive about everything, although she looked a bit puzzled by our camera lens. But, that didn’t last very long.

There’s always something new to explore – autumn is a great time to be get to know your world.

As we turned to continue our walk, Nessie began circling for another ambush. After all, what’s a new sister for? Have fun you guys.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2014 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

November 2, 2014
A Puppy Girl Named Joe!

Sunday Dogs come in all sizes and shapes, but never any cuter than Joe. Because of her stunningly white coat, we saw this puppy coming from quite a distance.

And, when she came closer to investigate the three of us, we couldn’t stop staring at her beauty.

At two months old, Joe is already the size of a full-grown Westy. Make friends now, Poppy, because this gorgeous Boxer will soon look a lot different – but, we have to believe she’ll be just as sweet.

Joe was born in France and has just arrived state-side. As she explores Boston and gets to know her new setting, we’re looking forward to seeing her around town. And, I’m sure we’ll be posting more Sunday Dog photos as she develops into a strong, healthy adult.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2014 Penny Cherubino

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October 19, 2014
Sunday Dog, Sophie – A Refreshingly Candid Shar Pei

We met a lovely Shar Pei named Sophie recently and no sooner had we exchanged greetings than we all found ourselves talking like old friends. It’s funny how that happens.

Sophie agreed to a quick Sunday Dog photo shoot followed by what turned out to be a very personal Q & A session about her breed. She spoke of her ancestors from southern China and how Shar Pei comes from Cantonese – meaning “sand skin” (the rough feel of her coat).

Then, without hesitation, Sophie went right to the obvious, answering the question everyone wants to ask, but often avoids …

“Yes,” she said proudly, “I have wrinkles.” However, we learned that the Shar Pei tends to unwrinkle a bit as it ages (humans should be so lucky). Sophie boasted, “Wrinkles? You should have seen me as a puppy!”

Besides being very candid, a Shar Pei is also known as independent, loyal, reserved, loving, protective of its family, and sometimes stubborn.

There are many variations of Shar Pei coat colors including Red, Cream, Chocolate, and Blue – like Sophie, who also has the classic Shar Pei blue-black tongue.

At five years old, Sophie is a gorgeous example of her breed who loves pats and getting to know her two and four legged neighbors. We’ll talk again soon, girl. Thanks for being such a spectacular Sunday Dog!

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2014 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

October 12, 2014
Dock Dog, Savoring the Sunset

This beautiful, old pup watched me as I took photos of sailboats in the sunset from the Gloucester Street Dock on the Esplanade. Only the dog’s eyes moved. The canine’s body remained cuddled up touching both people with him or her.

But those captivating brown eyes kept track of this person with the big black lens moving around the little pack.

Those eyes remained alert, curious, but content to sit and enjoy basking in the sunset with the family.

Naturally, I could not resist taking a few photos of such a beautiful dog.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Thanks to everyone who Hops over to Amazon from here to do their shopping. We appreciate your support.

Details:
Words: Penny Cherubino
Photography: © 2014 Ed Cherubino

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October 5, 2014
Finding Pros for Your Dog in Boston: Walkers, Pet Sitters, and Kennels

Dog Walkers

Dog walkers are a common sight around the city. These professionals fill in for family during the work day, making sure the pups get breaks to relieve themselves and a nice dose of exercise. As when hiring any caregiver for an animal you love, ask friends and neighbors for recommendations and ask questions about those aspects of the job that are important to you and your dog.

What Questions? Here is a post from Dogwalker.com that outlines important ones you might overlook.

Pet Sitters

Those who have cats and other indoor pets, as well as dogs, might need a pet sitter from time to time. Pet sitters will come to your home each day, stay in your home, or keep your pet in their home.

If you use a dog walker, start with him or her. You and your dog already know and trust the person who is in and out of your house each day and responsible for your dog’s safety on the city streets. Many dog walkers do offer pet sitting.

There are also a few people in every neighborhood who make a little extra income by taking care of pets. If you ask neighbors for recommendations, you may find a gem in your area.

Some dog breeders provide boarding services for dogs in their line. In the case of small scale breeders, your pet could have the run of their home except at bedtime.

Boarding Kennel or Dog Hotel?

Boarding kennels vary drastically in the quality of the facilities and the services they offer. You should insist on seeing exactly where your pet will be kept and inspect the entire facility before choosing one.

Here's a great article on choosing a kennel from the Humane Society of the United States.

Dog hotels are one step up from kennels. They offer rooms with walls and furniture rather than wire pens or kennels. The best dog hotels are quieter, calmer, and more like a home environment than kennels.

Special Health Requirements

Boarding facilities will require proof that your animal is up-to-date on immunizations and in good health. If you have a dog or cat with serious health issues who needs careful monitoring of a medical condition or is very frail, consider boarding your pal at a veterinary hospital with 24-hour medical staff on duty. Angell Animal Medical Center in Jamaica Plain offers this type of service for their clients.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Thanks to everyone who Hops over to Amazon from here to do their shopping. We appreciate your support.

Details:
Words: Penny Cherubino
Photography: © 2011-2014 Penny & Ed Cherubino witht he traveling dog from iStockphoto.com

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September 28, 2014
Welcome to Boston Dog Lovers: What You Need to Know…

Each year around this time, we welcome a pack of new pups to the city. We have checked the links and updated this post for 2017.

Now that most of the families with dogs have settled into their Boston homes, we want to say hello and help them find out what they need to know about having a dog in Boston.

Miss Maudie was less then 6-months-old when she posed for this photo.

Legal Matters

Massachusetts state law requires that any dog more than 6-months-old must be licensed. In Boston, you can pick up a license at City Hall or download an application online from the Animal Care and Control page on the city website.

Boston's leash law is clearly stated on the city’s site, “When your dog is off your property, it must be on a leash.” City ordinance calls for a leash of 10-feet or less. That makes most retractable leashes technically illegal in Boston.

Felix prefers a leather leash or halter for his walks around the Back Bay.

Legal exceptions to the leash law are the “official off-leash hours” on the Boston Common, and inside the fences at dog parks like Peter’s Park in the South End and Ronan Park in Dorchester.

One more interesting aspect of Boston’s dog rules is that while out with your pup, if asked, you must be able to show that you are carrying something to pick up dog waste. This makes city dog walks a prime reason to attach a roll of pick-up bags to your leash.

Even if you use recycled bags to do the majority of your clean ups, the roll will give you back up supplies if you are stopped after your dog’s business is done, but the walk isn’t.

Emercency Services

The one bit of guidance we do give to any dog family is that Angell Animal Medical Center Emergency Services are available, as they say, “…every day of the year, 24 hours each day.” We keep their number on our cell phones in case of an emergency. And, it can't hurt to take a ride to the location so you will know where you are going in a stressful time.

On upcoming Sundays, we'll fill you in on a few more things you might like to know about taking care of, and having fun with, your dog in Boston. And, if you have a great Sunday Dog you'd like us to feature, let us know in the comments below.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Penny Cherubino (Some of this material was previously published in Penny's City Paws newspaper column.)
Photography: © 2013-2014 Penny & Ed Cherubino

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September 14, 2014
Look Who We Just Met, Sunday Dog Monty!

We were sitting on a park bench last Sunday morning soaking up some lazy, August sunshine when along came Monty. This very friendly, curious five-month-old wanted to say hello to everyone and get some pats, which we happily supplied.

This handsome English Springer Spaniel is called Monty in memory of famed WWII British commander Bernard Montgomery. Although it’s hard to imagine our Monty with his own command, we wouldn’t be surprised to hear him occasionally bark out an order or two …

Springers are known for their intelligence along with a willingness to obey. They are confident, curious, like the water, and said to make fine family pets.

The name springer is said to refer to the act of “springing” game into the open. However, Monty is from a “show” line, not a “hunting” line, meaning he was bred to have a slightly different appearance including a longer coat.

Look closely and you’ll see that Monty is already starting to grow his “feathers” (as they’re called) on his legs – a feature that’ll also adorn his tail.

Great to meet you, Monty! You made our summer morning. Thanks for being this week’s Sunday Dog.

Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2014 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

August 24, 2014