Bringing home a puppy is a big decision--an even bigger decision when you are President-elect Barack Obama. All eyes were on him as he made his victory speech to America and thanked his family for their support. Then, the moment came when he said to his daughters Malia (10) and Sasha (7), "I love you more than you can imagine, you have earned the new puppy that's coming with us to the White House." Since that comment, the new "First Dog" decision has been one of the biggest issues on Obama's website. Animal organizations from all over the country have weighed-in with their opinions and choices. The main concern is that Malia has allergies. This limits the choice to a hypoallergenic breed. There has also been talk of the Obamas adopting a shelter or rescue puppy. This decision would put the spotlight on homeless animals and hopefully save lives!
A total of twenty-two presidents have had dogs in the White House. Many of the presidents have had more than one! These pooches were loved by their families, and they captured the hearts of Americans. The original dogs to enter the White House were George Washington's Foxhounds. Some memorable "First Dogs" were Lyndon B. Johnson's Beagles (Him and Her), Richard Nixon's Cocker Spaniel (Checkers) who now rests at Bide-a-Wee Pet Cemetery in Wantagh, George Bush's English Springer Spaniel (Millie), Bill Clinton's Chocolate Lab (Buddy), and George W. Bush's Scottish Terriers (Barney and Miss Beazley).
When adopting a puppy, there are many things to consider. This is not a decision to enter into lightly. They are living things, not toys or gifts. Puppies are adorable, but they grow up quickly. Can you make the fifteen-year commitment? Who will play, walk, and clean-up after the puppy? Who will take care of it if you are working all day? Can you afford dog food, vaccinations, and vet bills? If you can't answer these questions, DO NOT GET A PUPPY!
If you are ready to adopt a puppy, spend a little time and effort on researching the type of dog you are considering. Find out what the dog was originally bred to do, e.g., herding, tracking, hunting, etc. This will give you a clear picture of the dog's inherited traits. Remember that every dog's personality is different, just like humans. Pick out a dog that will fit well in your living situation. (You don't want to get a large, high-energy dog if you live in a small apartment and are not home most of the day.) If you have children, you must watch the puppy at all times and teach the children how to safely pet and handle the new arrival.
Now, here's my pick for the "First Dog." After considering Malia's allergies, the Obamas need to get either a hairless or a one-coated breed. There really is no such thing as a non-allergic dog. You can have an allergic reaction to any dog's skin cells, saliva, or urine. Whatever puppy they decide to get, it must stay out of Malia's bedroom and have regular grooming appointments. They need to vacuum often, use an air purifier, and wash dog bedding and toys at least once a week. They say that Malia's been eyeing the Goldendoodle. I would have to say no. They are great dogs, but have a high-energy level and need a lot of exercise. (I, myself, have a Labradoodle, which is very active.) After careful consideration, my choice for the "First Dog" is a Bichon Frise. These friendly, one-coated dogs have a low to medium energy level. They are social, good with children, and a perfect fit for the Obama family and the White House. Don't worry, they can still get a Bichon from a rescue group or shelter.
Whatever puppy the Obamas pick, you can bet it will be the biggest news story of the week. And, you can be sure that the Obamas will love it--and America will love it--no matter what puppy they choose!
Some of the basic rules are: always clean up after your dog; no aggressive dogs allowed; owners must be with their dogs at all times; children under twelve are not permitted; no food, treats, or bones allowed; no female dogs in heat permitted; no pinch or spike collars allowed; dogs must be up-to-date with vaccines and be parasite free; always watch your dog; and keep your dog in the designated dog park area.
Some of the unspoken rules are: do not discipline or grab a dog that is not yours; if your dog doesn't get along with a dog that was there before you entered, then you must leave; your dog must be off-leash within the confines of the dog park; keep your leash handy in case you have to quickly get your dog; no dog toys (some dogs are object possessive); do not enter if the park seems overcrowded. These rules are pretty much all common sense and need to be followed to keep the park safe.
Yapping it up at Cedar Creek dog run are Hunny (on chair), Carson (doberman), and Cato (lab).
We are officially in the heart of hurricane season (June 1 to November 30). Some of us have a place to go; some of us will figure it out when the time comes. However, don't forget, there is one important thing you need to consider--your pets!
You need to be prepared ahead of time, or you will run into many problems when trying to evacuate with pets. The worst thing you can do is leave them behind. Remember Hurricane Katrina and all of those heartbreaking pictures of dogs roaming the streets, starving, and confused. Some of these animals were lucky and were reunited with their owners; others were not so lucky. Keep in mind that there is a possibility that you won't be allowed back to your home to get your pets for days, or even weeks. So take them with you at all costs!
PUBLIC SHELTERS DO NOT ACCEPT PETS, so you must go somewhere else. You can go to a friend's house, or maybe a relative's house that is out of the danger zone. In order to do this, you must leave early or else you might be forced to go to a shelter. Then what will you do? You can't leave your pets in the car because it is too dangerous for them. So make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get to where you need to go so everybody can stay safe.
These situations are stressful for everybody, including your pets. If they get excited or startled during the storm, they could get away from you. Make sure your pets have identification tags on their collars with your cell phone number on them. (A home number does no good if you are not at your home!) Your pets should also have up-to-date vaccinations. These medical records should be with you. Photos of your pets are also a good thing to have for identification purposes. Make sure you have carriers or cages for them in case you have to stay away from your home for an extended amount of time.
Here are some things that you should have packed when evacuating with your pets: at least two weeks of food, water, can opener, medications (if any), bowls for food and water, first aid kit, bedding or a blanket, collar with ID tags, leash, litter, litter box, brush, and favorite toys.
Remember, if you stay calm, they will stay calm. By having an evacuation plan and being prepared, you--and your beloved pets--will get through this stressful situation safely, and hopefully be back home soon.
Sink your teeth
into Suzanne's articles...
The "First Dog" Decision
November 2008 Holiday Issue
(Bellmore Life, Merrick Life, Wantagh/Seaford Citizen)
Pets and Hurricanes
September 2008
(Bellmore Life, Merrick Life)
Spring Means a Bark in the Park
April 2008 Spring Issue
(Bellmore Life, Merrick Life, Wantagh/Seaford Citizen)
Spring has finally arrived! It's time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air...with your dog. That's right, with your dog!
We Americans love the company of our canine companions. According to the 2007-2008 National Pet Owners Survey there are 74.8 million dogs in the United States living in 44.8 million homes. This has prompted many establishments and areas to become "dog-friendly" including hotels, outdoor restaurants, beaches, and parks.
Seven dog parks on Long Island are located within the county park system. The parks include: Christopher Morley, Nickerson Beach, Blydenburgh, West Hills, Northport, and, right here in our own backyard, Wantagh and Cedar Creek.
Some dog runs are enclosed and feature two separate areas: one for small dogs and puppies and one for medium and large dogs. But, before you enter any dog park, you must understand the rules and take precautions to ensure a safe, happy experience for you and your pup.
Every dog park has a set of rules posted by the entrance. Please read these carefully and obey them.
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Not every dog wants to enter a dog park, or is a good candidate for this type of activity. Never force your dog into any new situation. Spend a few minutes and observe the dogs first before entering. If you have any doubts, do not enter.
You should have some basic knowledge of canine body language to determine your dog's state of mind. Nobody knows your dog better than you! If you have a fearful or nervous dog, it is probably a good idea not to go to the dog park. He will most likely be picked on by the other dogs or his fear could turn into aggression.
If your dog is dominant and aggressive, do not enter the dog park, ever! Aggressive behavior will not be tolerated, and you will most assuredly be asked to leave. If a dog fight does break out, bang metal water bowls together, make a loud whistle, or throw water on them. Yelling and screaming will only escalate the situation.
This is not a place to "experiment" to see what your dog will do. If you are unsure of your dog's actions and you place him inside the fence with a strange group of dogs and people he's never met, this could be a recipe for disaster. Please remember that you are liable for your dog's actions, and if he injures another dog or bites somebody, you are personally responsible!
It is highly recommended that your dog should have some basic obedience training before entering the dog park. If you see a problem occuring between two dogs, you should feel confident that if you call your dog, he will come to you--know matter what. You should have total control of your dog at all times.
All in all, this is a wonderful place for your dog to socialize with other dogs and meet new people. It's also fun to talk with other dog owners and learn about some of the different breeds.
However, a visit to the dog park should not be a substitute for regular walks, Yes, they do get some exercise being off-leash at the park, but a nice long walk at a brisk pace will really get his heart pumping. Walking also helps cement that special bond between owner and dog.
If you follow all of the rules and are conscious of your dog's wishes, you will have a rewarding experience at the dog park. It's a fantastic way for your dog to make some "canine connections," and for you to meet other people who truly love their dogs!
