More Healthy Dogs

Wouldn't it be great if our beloved dogs could add a few more years to their lives?

Ted Kerasote has written another inspiring book which addresses the issue of how to give our dog the longest life possible. The book is a combination of anecdotes about the author's dog, Pukka, and research about the factors that may effect the lifespan of our pooches: genetics, inbreeding, lifestyle, diet, vaccinations and other traditional veterinary practices, environmental toxins, and more.

A MUST READ for all dog owners!



Ebbie and I get outdoors everyday for a walk or skate on the Chehalis Western Trail in Olympia, Washington. Exercise and socializing her with other dogs are healthy options for a long life. And for us too!

Only in Seattle

A new model of veterinarian care!


Urban Animal is committed to keeping pet care affordable and an approach that might include not pushing for the most extreme and costly interventions.

The office is another story. It is part Airstream and part 1978 Ford truck both of which are owned by practice founder Cherri Trusheim.

Urban Animal is located in an old medical building on Capitol Hill / First Hill in Seattle, Washington. The welcoming interior space has funky vinyl chairs and second-hand medical cabinets, paint-by-number dog portraits, and enormous vintage print of a cabin in the mountains, PLUS, in the corner a photobooth.

For only four dollars you and your dog can capture the moment with a take home print in only four minutes!

Dr. Trusheim worked as a relief vet and at an emergency hospital. Urban Animal accommodates walk-ins and is open on weekends.

I hope this model of veterinarian care becomes the norm.
Thank you, Dr. Trusheim!

Too Old To Walk

What do you do for your favorite dog who cannot walk the miles with you anymore due to age and physical challenges?

I met a woman on the Chehalis Western Trail in Olympia, Washington, who has the answer.

Her 11 year old Airedale dog suffers from arthritis, but she figured out how to enjoy their time together on the Trail. Her family thinks she is "nuts," but I think she has a heart of gold.

Wish I got her name and dog's name.

Summertime, Kids, and Dog

Summertime in Washington is OUTSTANDING!

I have been enjoying summer soooo much that I have been rather negligent in posting to the blog.

I could not resist sharing a photo of our travels. Usually my dog goes in the cargo area of the car, but in this case it was too full. Ebony got to share the back seat with Benson and Mathew.

They were all happy campers!

Spring on the Trail

The Chehalis Western Trail in Olympia is a favorite place to be on the occasional sunny day in Washington.

Ebony and I were caught on camera enjoying the day by Ed Anderson.

He likes to photography the dogs he encounters on the trail.



You can see more photos of his dog friends.

Avalanche Dogs

Dogs are becoming more visible at ski areas these days. These dogs and their handlers work very hard on the mountain.

Crystal Mountain in Washington has one of the oldest avalanche dog programs. It has been in place for over 20 years.

Cirrus is a German Shepard and is on her seventh season at
Crystal Mountain. She belongs to Andrew Longstreth.

The main job of the avalanche dogs is to search for snow buried victims. If any avalanches occur that are not witnessed, the dogs are used to clear the area making sure no one was buried. Dogs are able to search these unstable areas safely in seconds where humans could take hours and risking more lives.

Dogs are used to augment the avalanche rescue plan because they are much faster than humans. The dogs are very important especially if the victim is not using an avalanche rescue beacon.

Training the dogs to search is not done with treat rewards. For these dogs, the search is a game, and the dogs work because they love it. Once the dogs have been trained to search, practice is crucial to hone their skills.

Visit the Crystal Mountain's Avalanche Dogs Facebook page to learn more and see breathtaking photos.

Dogs and Snowballs

Kids and dogs know how to take advantage of a good snow fall.


Here in Olympia, Washington, we recently experienced well over a foot of snow. It overwhelmed our city which does not have the necessary amount of equipment to handle snow. Many people were without power for days and crews from all over came to help.

Here is a toy for dogs who cannot get enough snowball play. It is a snowball that lasts through the seasons. Dogs can chase it through the snowdrifts and never have it disintegrate in its mouth!

The Orbee Snowball has a fresh minty taste and smell. I wonder if it gets rid of "doggie breath"?

This chew toy is one of the most popular products from Planet Dog. (They donate 2% of every sale to worthy charities.) It is recyclable and durable.

Pot for Dogs?

In an effort to ease pain from arthritis, cancer, and other diseases in dogs, the Seattle company Medical Marijuana Delivery Systems is developing a "pot patch".

The product, to be called Tetracan, received patent rights in February of 2011 and could reach the market by the middle of 2012. This patch would be an alternative to pharmaceutical painkillers which have proven harmful, sometimes fatal in animals.


Maybe it will be sold with a box of milkbones?

Tracking Missing Pets

Kat Albrecht, a former police Bloodhound trainer and crime scene investigator, is teaching animal shelter volunteers how to find lost pets by using some of the same skills and tools employed by law enforcement in tracking down missing people.

The Shelter Pet Detective program at the Regional Animal Services of King County Shelter in Washington was started by Kat.

Helping owners find their lost pets is something most shelters do not aggressively or effectively do. Many pet owners give up hope due to lack of resources and support.

The pilot program was launched in July with about 35 volunteers trained to assist owners in finding their lost pets. Volunteers search the shelter for missing dogs by creating neon "lost pet" posters; use social media to broadcast lost pet information; and do physical searches armed with humane traps, DNA tests, and forensic tools.

Kat is trying to raise money to start the Shelter Pet Detective program in three other Washington state animal shelters and would like to see the program offered nationwide

For more information, visit the organization's website.

National Dog Day

Did you know that yesterday (August 26th) was National Dog Day?

This special holiday was created in 2004 for two special purposes: to honor dogs and to rescue dogs from homelessness and abuse.

I honored my dog by taking her and her two girlfriends (and mine) to the beach. We all had a marvelous time as it was one of Washington's perfect sunny and warm day at the coast.

Dogs are an important part of our lives. Not only do they give us unconditional love, loyalty, companionship and comfort, they also help us in so many ways. They are trusted watchdogs that keep our families safe. Police and military dogs, bomb-sniffing dogs and search-and-rescue dogs put their lives on the line every day to help save human lives. Guide dogs are devoted to serving their blind companions. Service dogs assist disabled.

Dogs give so much to us - so honoring their noble efforts is a really nice idea.

But as much as dogs help us, there are also so many dogs out there that need US to help THEM. That's why the second goal of National Dog Day is to help save dogs from homelessness and abuse.

• Rescue a dog if you can - If you're thinking about rescuing a new dog, here are some good tips:

1. Research the shelter and rescue group options in your area. Check the Internet, talk to your veterinarian and pet-loving friends, and do not be afraid to call these facilities and ask questions. Most rescue groups are quite humane and clean, but you still should do your homework to be sure they are right for you.

2. Remember to think with your head. When you are looking at those adorable doggie faces, it is easy to make a decision based purely on what your heart feels. BEFORE, you go looking for the perfect dog, seriously think about the canine characteristics that will be best for your family and home, and stick to those guidelines while at the shelter.

3. List what you are looking for in a dog. Go to the shelter with a plan. Tell the staff why you want a dog, and they will help you find the right one for you. Do you want a jogging partner, a lap dog, a hunting dog, a companion for the kids.....? Do you want a puppy or would you like to rescue an old dog? Small, large? Long-haired, short-haired?...

4. Consider your finances and lifestyle. Pets are a lifetime commitment, and they deserve the best care possible. Will your pocketbook allow you to feed a dog a quality diet, provide him with the supplies his needs to nurture his daily life, and give him adequate preventative and emergency medical care? Do you have plenty of available time to spend with a dog? Do not adopt a dog only to find that you do not have time or money for him. This is never fair to any pet.

5. Take your time when making this big decision. Do not rush into pet ownership. Take the time needed to find the right dog and get to know him. Several visits to the dog at the shelter may be best before taking him home. Also, take the time to be sure your house is ready for the new family member.

6. Visit with the dogs outside their cages. A shelter is a stressful environment. The other animals and all the noise may make a dog nervous and unsocial or over-exuberant to win your attention. Taking a dog outside or to a private visiting room will give you the opportunity to get to know the dog's true personality.

7. Interact with the dog. Do not just say, "He is cute, I will take him." If the staff will allow you, walk him, play with him, find out if he knows any commands or tricks, give him a snack... Get to know the dog, and let him get to know you.

8. Allow the dog to meet all members of the family. Bring Mom, Dad, kids, even other pets if the shelter allows it. Be sure the dog you are considering for adoption is comfortable with the whole family.

9. Talk to the staff. The staff members are handy tools for helping you learn more about the dog, his likes and dislikes, his quirks, his health, etc. The staff members spend a lot of time with these rescue dogs and have gotten to know them well.

10. Evaluate the dog's health and body condition. Check for discharge from the dog's eyes and nose. Is the dog coughing, sneezing, etc.? Note the dog's gait. Is the dog overweight or underweight? Check for fleas and ticks. Check the condition of the teeth. If you see any issues in these areas, talk to your vet and/or the shelter staff about them. Learn what you can do to resolve any health problems, and think about whether you are willing to do so.

11. Bring needed supplies on adoption day. Be prepared, and help your dog feel welcome. Bring a collar, leash, blanket for the car seat, and possibly a toy on the day of adoption. Try to make your dog's transition as stress-free and calm as possible.

12. Do not expect everything to go perfectly. There will be struggles. Remember your dog will be a little nervous in his new home, and he will not immediately know your expectations. The rules and ways of his previous home probably were not the same as they are in his current home. BE PATIENT as your dog adjusts.

13. Show him your love. Give your new dog abundant time, attention, and affection. This is especially important during his adjustment period. Help him feel wanted and comfortable.

Cheer Up The Lonely

Did you know that July 11th is National Cheer Up The Lonely Day?

Pets bring such joy into people's lives. One of the Comfort Care Therapists on the team at Providence Hospice in Olympia, Washington, Anne Howie takes her trained dogs to various locations to make this connection between dogs and humans.


There is something very special about how the presence of a dog melts the heart and soul of those who come into contact with them.

Today, bring a smile to someone who is lonely.

Beach Time For Doggies

Here in the Pacific Northwest we were recently treated to two full days of SUNSHINE. I happened to select those two very days to visit the beach and Seabrook.

Synchronicity!

AND PERFECT, I might add.

Imagine days and days of rain, a decision to go to the beach, and presto! Sunshine and blue skies. Washingtonians would say, "It's a miracle!" Especially since the weather is back to rain once again.

Here is what a Washington beach looks like on a rare sunny day:


This is the beach at Seabrook, a lovely little beach town near Pacific Beach, Washington.

Wind swept trees looking North.....



Frost and Ebony
Ebony and her good buddy Frost, along with Frost's daughter, Bailey, ran the beaches to exhaustion. Frost and Bailey are Wirehaired Pointing Griffons and are trained to hunt birds.

"They are on vacation," said Shelley, their master. Frost and Bailey taught Ebony the fine art of chasing shore birds.

Missed It!

Glancing at my 2011 dog calendar I noticed that yesterday was National Dress Up Your Pet Day. I did not notice any dogs on the Chehalis Western Trail here in Olympia, Washington wearing costumes. Did you see any costumed pets?

There are important things to consider before you dress up your pet.

For example:
1. Make sure your pet is comfortable. If he/she is "fighting" the costume or sweater -this can be very stressful.
2. Make sure he is not TOO hot. Pets can overheat.
3. Make sure there are no restrictive bands that can injure your pet.

Some pets like being dressed up and others HATE it. One great alternative that is also very cool is a bandanna. This is a fun way to dress up a pet that does not like to be dressed. Most dogs tolerate and even enjoy bandannas.


Ebony's bandanna says, "trouble" and was a gift from my son to her when she was a pup. She has not outgrown it!

Dog Meets "Big" Duck

Another glorious, but cold day in Olympia, Washington.

After a picnic lunch soaking up the sunshine and some vitamin D, my friend, Maxine, and I along with my trusty dog, Ebony, decided to walk the beach from Burfoot Park.

I actually put on sunscreen! It is January!

The Olympics were stunning.


Ebony sat while we watched the Blue Heron feed.


But she could not understand what that duck was out in the water and stayed on point until it got closer.


On closer examination.....it spoke.


This is Kitty who made her beautiful kayak and was enjoying our incredible January winter day.

Light on The Trail

The Chehalis Western Trail in Olympia, Washington is one of my favorite places to take my dog for a walk. It was especially stunning this evening.

After a few days of rain, today the sun kept trying to pop out. Ebony and I were on the Trail late afternoon. The smell of the woods after a rain is very intoxicating and wonderful. The low sun was highlighting the yellow leaves and the plethora of colorful leaves on the ground. I was wishing I had my camera, but I did have my cell phone.

Here is a glimpse of the beauty I discovered today.....

I love the arches formed by these trees.



And the light across the path.


The yellow leaves of the popular trees against the dark sky is absolutely brilliant.


What a beautiful place to visit.

"Run Like A Dog"

This morning on the Chehalis Western Trail, Ebony and I were surprised by all the people and dogs we encountered.

It was the 5th Annual "Run Like A Dog" Event at the South Bay Veterinary Hospital with proceeds benefiting the Thurston County Humane Society.

Trail running athletes and dog lovers from around the Northwest convene for this opportunity to compete with their dogs or just for their love of dogs. "Run Like a Dog" is a 5k run/walk with all proceeds benefiting the Thurston County Humane Society. Competitors, participants and spectators are encouraged to bring their well behaved and physically fit dogs on a leash for either the race or just to visit the several sponsor booths and support this community event.

Here is the website for more information

Looks like fun......





Next year, Ebony and I will participate. Wonder if I can skate?

Dog Buddies

I believe dogs have best friends.

Ginger and Brinkley, Golden Retrievers, met at Marymoor Dog Park in Seattle, Washington when they were six and seven months old. Jayme and Brian had a hard time separating them when it was time to go home. They decided to have doggie play dates.

As the story goes, the doggie play dates then turned into Jayme and Brian dates. It is a fact, proven here, that dogs are attractors for partners of the opposite sex.

Now Ginger and Brinkley get to play together when ever they want!

Ginger and Brinkley
Best Friends
Step-Sister and Step-Brother

First Taste of Summer

The Pacific Northwest finally experienced sunshine and warm temperatures!

I decided to take the two dogs to Budd Inlet in Olympia, Washington, for some cooling off water play. Look at this beautiful scene with the Olympics in the background!


Ginger is the swimmer, while Ebony plays in the shallow water.




With coaxing and after becoming uncomfortably hot, Ebony will retrieve a stick if not thrown far. I really do not know if she thinks this is fun or if she is trying to please me?


Summertime and the living is easy!

Dog Shoes

As Ebony and I were walking down the Chehalis Western Trail in Olympia, Washington, a dog an his masters were walking towards us. I heard this clopping sound similar to a horse walking on pavement and noticed the dog's feet.

Kataro was in red hiking boots complete with vibram soles!

Kataro styling on the Trail

Krista, his master, explained to me that Kataro severely cut his foot pad while chasing a rabbit into the bushes on the Chehalis Western Trail. She had research several dog shoes and found these to be the "best".

Kataro and James

Please, if you use this trail or similar ones, be a responsible citizen and do not litter even in the bushes. Thank You!

A Dog's Job

Summer is around the corner! It is time to get outside with your dog. People who exercise look and feel better, and so will your dog.

There is a difference between going to the dog park and getting your dog involved in a sport – the dog gets to run and release energy, but she also needs to use her mind and take her cues from you – the pack leader. You are not only giving her the physical exercise but you are also giving her the mental stimulation. You are giving the dog a job, and every dog needs to work in order to be fulfilled.

With so many activities out there for you to bring out your dog’s inner athlete, take some time this spring and summer to do your research and get active! While breed does not necessarily matter, there are some breeds that will take to certain activities better (or quicker) than others. For example, if your dog has an active nose – Beagles, terriers, hounds – you might think about search and rescue training, or tracking activities. Tracking takes place on a field, where dogs are rewarded for finding the “scent.”

For high-energy, working dogs, like Huskies and German Shepherds, think about Urban Mushing – which is essentially dog sledding on city streets with the use of a harness and a scooter, trike, or skateboard.

For water dogs, like Labradors, consider dock diving and dock jumping, the canine equivalent of the long jump, only in the water!

For big and small dogs alike, you can get involved in agility activities, which takes advantage of a dog’s speed and quickness, to jump, balance and run through an obstacle course.

Of course, in addition to organized activities, there are other ways of bringing out your dog’s inner athlete, whether it’s a bike ride, rollerblading, or taking your dog with you when you go kayaking.

Skating with my son's dog Ginger on the Burke-Gilman Trail
in Seattle, Washington

Whatever you choose, engage your dog in the activity with calm and assertive energy. You’ll be amazed at how your dog responds!