Our man, Manny

From time to time, we work with other groups in the area that find themselves with an Apso … in this case it was supposed to be a Tibetan Terrier but, on arrival, it was determined he’s definitely an Apso.  And a darned cute one at that!

Manny is a very sweet black and tan Lhasa Apso, around 6 years of age and weighs 22 lbs.   He is neutered, current on his vaccinations, microchipped, housebroken, will use a dog door, just had a dental cleaning, is good with other dogs, cats and older children.  

For his new forever home, he needs a stay at home, experienced dog owner, preferably with Lhasas who will go slowly with his transition to his new home.   He can not be crated or closely confined, has a slight thunder phobia, likes to sleep on the foot of the bed and cuddle on the couch.  

Adoption fee: $200.

To find out more about Manny please call:  Sandy Benton, RMTTC Rescue, Loveland, Colorado; 970-669-0181

Handsome dude ...

 

Ali ... supervising the plants

One the the favorite pastimes when what could pass for summer (at least in Colorado) arrives is hanging out in the backyard.  Hubby and I putz around with the flowers or vegetable garden while the dogs wander, amusing themselves with whatever comes along. 

Gardening is a bit haphazard.  If it grows and thrives, it gets to stay.  If it doesn’t, out it comes and something else gets planted … usually to the sound of hubby whining and moaning about digging yet another hole.  These days, I take him along when plant shopping.  That way I can say, “Hey, you were there when we bought the thing … you knew it needed a hole dug!”  Lucky for me, hubby got the gardening gene from his Mom and, despite his protestations, continues to dig holes.  Probably because something is always dying around here.  Winters in Colorado can be brutal on the plants.

 

Yard guard on duty ...

No matter what we’re doing, the dogs are smack-dab in the middle of it.  And, honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.  Curious to a fault, they have to inspect every item and then observe exactly what we’re doing with that item.  Sometimes offering to help … like digging a hole or harvesting lettuce in the garden. 

 

Foster dogs are included in the activities.  If a male, it generally ends up being a pissing contest around the yard.  I keep threatening to fence off the bark area from the grassy area to (1) keep the dogs from fence fighting wih the neighbors’ dogs and (2) keep the dogs away from the plants.  Just another thing to add to the list of projects.  And have you priced decorative fencing lately?!?!  With 260′ needed, it’s going to be a while before that project even gets started.

Million Bells in a bas relief pot

… hit the jackpot at the recent Fire Hydrant 5 in Fort Collins!  He amped up the charm and captured the interest of a family from Loveland.  Turns out they were about as perfect for him as they come and he rounds a family of Mom, Dad, Brother, Sister and canine sibling, Annie.  Plans are in motion to have him certified for therapy visits at hospitals, nursing homes and schools. 

Didn’t take him long to settle in and, we hear, wrap his new Dad around his paw!  Not suprising with this little guy as he greets everyone as a long lost friend … whether he knows them or not.

Jackson will do well and go far with his happy-go-lucky attitude!

Well, the weatherman totally blew the forecast but we’re not complaining!  Was supposed to be rainy with wind.  What we got was … sunny and breezy!  A little cool at 7:30 a.m. but everyone was dressed for it.  Some photos from the day …

Jackson ...

Big Dog visiting our booth ...

Just enough breeze to show off our Tibetan colors!

If nothing else, we had lots of color ...

Peanut ... taking it all in

Susan, right, in traditional Tibetan garb

The dogs did great with all the visitors to the booth … canine and human alike.  Several folks expressed interest in adopting Jackson so we’ll see what happens!

Jackson ... takin' it easy

… arrived yesterday.  All 24 pounds of him.  Jackson, through no fault of his own, is a victim of the economy.  He’s been well cared for and very much loved.  Unfortunately,  his owner was forced to work two jobs just to keep up with the bills.  Leaving little time for taking care of a beloved companion … and even less money to deal with his medical issues.  A dental is in his very near future (like tomorrow)  along with dealing with some ear tip issues.  It appears he has a skin condition at the very tips of his ears — most likely from improper drying after a bath.

Once released for adoption, Jackson will make an exceptional pet.  A young dog, he’ll be three in mid July.  He’ll be dropping a few pounds and working on a “heel” command so as to walk nicely on a lead.  He’s crate trained, housetrained and will be placed with his crate, HW meds, a microchip and current vaccinations.

If interested in this little guy, please contact me at:  ApsoRescue@aol.com.  Better yet, if seriously interested, submit an application — unless you’ve previously adopted from us in which case you’re already approved!

Update:   Jackson came through his dental with flying colors. The ear tip issue was pretty minor and will most likely be cleared up with a short course of topical antibiotics.  Because he’s doing so well, Jackson will be attending the Fire Hydrant 5 in Fort Collins on Saturday, May 9th.  He’ll be sporting a bandana that says, “Adopt Me!”

Whenever I leave the house … whether it be for 30 minutes or all day … I always have some “white noise” playing in the background for the dogs.  Living in a surban neighborhood, there are many sounds which are cause for baying off an alert.  While I realize the dogs are just doing what comes naturally to a hairy little sentinel from Tibet, I don’t need to be warned every time a car door slams or another dog barks in the ‘hood.  Thank you very much and, yes, I did hear that, and, no, they’re not coming to your house.  With spring’s arrival, it won’t be long before I’m opening the windows wide to let in fresh air … and more sounds from the neighborhood.  Having something playing throughout the house definitely cuts down on the everyday noises that set the dogs off.  Besides being alert dogs, they’ve also earned the nickname of “Tibetan door bells.”

Pandora's box ...

I employ this same strategy for myself at work.  Having something quietly playing in the background in my office allows me to block out the (sometimes loud) foot traffic and conversations in the building.  While streaming radio is great for this, I have no input as to what’s actually playing.  CDs work, but then I’m forced to have them handy and change out frequently on my CD ROM.  Enter the Music Genome Project through Pandora Internet Radio. 

The Music Genome Project®

On January 6, 2000 a group of musicians and music-loving technologists came together with the idea of creating the most comprehensive analysis of music ever.

Together we set out to capture the essence of music at the most fundamental level. We ended up assembling literally hundreds of musical attributes or “genes” into a very large Music Genome. Taken together these genes capture the unique and magical musical identity of a song – everything from melody, harmony and rhythm, to instrumentation, orchestration, arrangement, lyrics, and of course the rich world of singing and vocal harmony. It’s not about what a band looks like, or what genre they supposedly belong to, or about who buys their records – it’s about what each individual song sounds like.

Since we started back in 2000, we’ve carefully listened to the songs of tens of thousands of different artists – ranging from popular to obscure – and analyzed the musical qualities of each song one attribute at a time. This work continues each and every day as we endeavor to include all the great new stuff coming out of studios, clubs and garages around the world.

It has been quite an adventure, you could say a little crazy – but now that we’ve created this extraordinary collection of music analysis, we think we can help be your guide as you explore your favorite parts of the music universe.

We hope you enjoy the journey.

Tim Westergren
Founder
The Music Genome Project

Basically, it allows me to plug in an artist and then Pandora plays similar type music.  Once you sign up for a free account, you can set up “stations” … add artists to your station … give a song thumbs up or thumbs down (in which case you won’t hear that song ever again) … not in the mood for a particular song but still like it — simply advance to the next selection.  It’s also a great way to explore new artists in the same genre or find something totally new and unexpected.

Some of my favorite “stations” — Deep Forest, Gandalf, Mike Oldsfield (of Tubular Bells fame), Hilary Stagg and Omar Akram.  They have an exotic flare, are mostly instrumental and do not have to be muted if a co-worker drops by or when taking a phone call. 

Now, if I could just get WordPress to add a widget for Pandora!

When Does the Fun Begin?

19th Annual Fire Hydrant 5

A new event for us … the Fire Hydrant 5 on Saturday, May 9th in Fort Collins at Edora Park as sponsored by the Larimer Humane Society.  This is a 5k Run, a 3k Walk/Fun Run and a Pet Fair in the park.  Information on the event …

The Fire Hydrant 5 is Saturday May 9, 2009 at Edora Park in Fort Colllins.  Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.  5K Race begins at 8:30 a.m.  3K Walk and Fun Run begins at 8:40 a.m.  Pet Fair is 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  The Fire Hydrant 5 is a Bolder Boulder qualifier.  This event will be held rain or shine!

Pet Fair Events

• Fido Photos – A Fire Hydrant 5 tradition, pose for a photo with your furry pal!
• Paw Painting – Take home some “custom artwork”, your pup’s paw print!
• Breed-Specific Rescue Groups to talk with you about their special dogs! 
• Special canine demonstrations including Eric Melvin & Angelyne, the amazing deaf Cattle Dog
• Return appearance by “Sparky” the Loveland Fire & Rescue Dalmatian
• Tour the Code 3 Associates Mobile Command Center for emergency animal rescue

Can Fido Attend?

Yes! Dogs are welcome at the event! Dogs participating in the 5K or the 3K must be registered and pay the $5 fee (one fee per family or individual handling the dog or dogs). 

The following guidelines also apply for our canine friends:

• They must be leashed at all times
• They must be current on all required vaccinations and licensing
• Please use a 6-foot or shorter, non-retractable leash
• Poop bags will be available, please make sure to pick up after your dog
• Please, no aggressive dogs. If Fido is in a bad mood, he will be asked to leave

Lung Ta -- Tibetan prayer flags

Mark your calendars (pun intended) … come on out and have a “pawsitively” fun day with your favorite pooch!  Good excuse to spend some quality time with your dog, have a meet/greet with other like-minded members of the community and support the Larimer Humane Society.  If you’d like to visit our booth, just look for the white canopy with the “lung ta”  (wind horse) fluttering  … Tibetan prayer flags!  Hope to see you — and your Apso — in Fort Collins on May 9th.

Need more information?  Contact ApsoRescue@aol.com.

Dante ...

Today is a my catch-up after spending a three-day weekend at the dog show.   Sorting through and putting away everything that was so carefully packed up on Thursday … finishing up on laundry … returning email/phone calls … moving the week’s schedule around to accommodate my father’s doctor’s appointment … performing a final check on my taxes so I can get them filed … setting up a CERF eye exam for Dante.  So much for a “day off.”

We had some very stiff competition this weekend, including the #1 Apso in the country and Dante’s littermate, Fernando.  Needless to say, Dante came home with nothing to show for his weekend except a bath and a good grooming.  So goes the dog show.  Can’t really complain, though.  Dante did everything I asked of him and more … like not throwing some heretofore unknown behavior into the mix.  At one point, the line-up was squeezed together with little room between the dogs.  Dante, much to his credit, was solid and didn’t react.  And I agree with the old saying about dog shows … “Win or lose, I always bring the best dog home … my dog!”

To put it all in perspective … I was already a “winner” before leaving the house on Friday.  My 8-year old male, Frankers, is back … back to my quirky little guy.  He’s been running up/down the basement stairs (two weeks ago I was carrying him up because he couldn’t make it).  While fixing food bowls, I turned around and he was sitting up, waving his front paws at me.  He’s enthusiastic about eating.  He’s been tossing his toys around and engaging Ali to play with him.  Just last night, he was jumping up on the couch again.  He bounces in and out of the house, taking the steps with a spring.  The lymph node is down and shows no signs of infection.

His eyes are bright; his tail up and wagging … no ribbon can take the place of that.

Melissa and a bored Josie ... ho, hum. I'd rather be in the agility ring ...

This year our local show club … the Lhasa Apso Club of Central Colorado … opted to have our Spring “specialty” show in April rather than lumping it in with the large cluster of shows in Denver this past February.  Accordingly, our specialty will be held in conjunction with the TerryAll Kennel Club’s All Breed Show in the Exhibition Building at the Adams County Fairgrounds, 9755 Henderson Road in Brighton, Colorado.

Details for attending (all Apso events in the Exhibition Building):

Friday:  Lhasa Apso Ring at 3:00 p.m.

Saturday:  Ring 3 at 12:50 p.m.

Sunday:  Ring 2 at 12:40 p.m.

As part of the weekend, we’ll be having a light potluck Saturday evening following Non-Sporting Group judging  and a breed seminar presented by Richard Camacho, including a slide show presentation and hands-on with Apsos, following Best in Show judging.

If you’d like to see other breeds, complete information can be found in the Judging Program.

Need more info?  Then contact me at ApsoRescue@aol.com.  Please note children in strollers and unentered dogs are not allowed on site.

Mr. Bed Head ...

The morning routine with three dogs changes very little from day to day.  Despite the fact Alan gets up some two hours before my alarm chimes,  the dogs sleep quietly in their crates until I greet the day.  Once up, the dogs are released from their crates in our bedroom and a small but colorful parade of Apsos makes its way to the back door.  Frankers excitedly prances, looking back over his shoulder to see if Ali is following, her usual ploddng self.  Dante brings up the rear … most likely with a slight detour off the hardwood into the front room to check out whatever toy was left out the night before or to goose the resident marble-brained cat.  An, ahem, well-placed nose will make him squeak loudly as he doesn’t buy into the typical canine greeting, considering it extremely rude to have a nose poked at one’s hiney!

Ali and Frankers go out immediately.  Dante — anticipating being picked up and put on a crate for banding — waits for me by the back door.  They thrive on routine, knowing what to expect as I go about making coffee and setting up their bowls for breakfast.

Having multiple dogs in the house — and one of them an intact male — came with a learning curve.  Despite the challenges, it has been an ongoing lesson in pack behavior.  One thing that became apparent early on was the canine’s innate need for interaction with others of its own kind.  While one can provide for their every need, we — as humans — cannot replicate the canine-to-canine bond.  A need that is hard wired into the canine psyche, a survival instinct sharply honed over the millenia.

'Rassling buddies ...

Ali, adopted as an adult, acquired the nickname of “the Red Slug” shortly after she arrived nine years ago.  Once she adapted to the routine and activity of the household, she became … bored.  We took her places, including biking, canoeing, and on forays to PetSmart.  She had more toys than she could reasonably play with; she got to visit with my parents’ Tzu.  We worked on training.  We included her in all the assorted goings-on associated with work in our large yard.  Yet … something was still missing.  Exactly what that “something” was quickly became apparent with Franker’s entrance as an eight-month old puppy.  Infused by his energy, they became fast partners in crime and curiosity.  We couldn’t find one without the other being close at hand (and is still the case).  Wrestling matches became the canine sport of choice.  No matter the activity – or lack thereof — they sought one other out, taking comfort in each other’s presence.  As the fosters rotate in, they too are assimilated into the pack each with their own place in the pecking order. 

There’s a certain joy watching them interact … and a joy within them that’s unmistakable.  We humans tend to believe we’re the be all to end all, but I think our canine friends might disagree.  While adding a second dog will increase expenses (food, grooming, vet, etc.), the “return” is definitely worth the investment.

 

Frankers

We recently had a scare with my 8-year old male, Frankie a/k/a “Frankers.”  While holding him during a chiropractic adjustment for an old injury earned chasing squirrels, I found a large swelling just under his jaw.  To say I was “surprised” is an understatement because I had just groomed him that morning and didn’t find anything amiss. 

The first round of antibiotics prescribed were ineffective and his condition continued to deteriorate, including spiking a high fever and complete disinterest in food.  Given his lack of response to the antibiotics, a biopsy was taken of the node to determine what exactly was going on.  While under anesthesia for the biopsy, the vet checked his mouth and esophagus for any foreign body that might be a contributing factor.  Zip, nada, zilch … meaning no clue as to what was causing it or how the swelling came about.  In the meantime, we switched antibiotics in the hopes he would respond.

The biopsy finally came back and revealed a severe bacterial infection of the lymph node (does it come through that I’m not a patient person in some situations??).  A few days later, he began to respond to the antibiotic and we were advised he’d have to stay on it four to six weeks as lymph node infections can be difficult to clear up.  Weeks later, the node has returned to almost normal, as has Frankers.

Shortly thereafter, I came across an excellent excerpt article on National Public Radio (NPR).  Written by a vet — Nancy Kay, DVM – it provides valuble tools for dealing with aging/ill pets and making decisons on their behalf … Speaking for Spot.  If you own pets, this is definitely a “must read.”  For myself, I’m tucking the information away in my mental tool box.  A guidepost for when aging bodies begin to fail and emotions run high in the face of loss. 

The complete book is available at Amazon.com.

April 6th Update:   Today is a really, really good day for our household.  After months of dealing with Franker’s issues … first the hip/back injury and then the bacterial infection … I finally feel like I have my little guy back.  He’s playing with his toys, racing through the house, trying to get Ali to play with him, and bouncing up a full flight of steps from the basement (multiple times, no less).  A huge improvement over ten days ago when I had to carry him up the stairs because he couldn’t make it.  A week ago today, he had a chiropractic adjustment and a session of acupuncture.  I think what we’ll do now is explore the options for a maintenance program, something along the lines of once every 6-8 weeks (+/-)

2009 Loveland Pet Expo

Always a good time, we attended the 2009 Loveland Reporter-Herald PetExpo the end of February.  Preparation begins several weeks prior as we make arrangements for our exhibit space and submit photos for the insert that comes out in the paper.  While there is a fee for submitting pet photos, half of it goes to the Larimer Humane Society so we’re more than happy to help support the local shelter.  It’s also good incentive to have  current photos of our pets … a momento of their life when all that remains is a memory and a pawprint on our hearts.

As this was our fourth year of attending the Expo, packing the day before is down to a science … grab the storage tub containing our booth supplies, review the inventory of  educational handouts,  pull books from the home library, and then get it all in the vehicle.  Last, but certainly not least, the dog(s) that will be attending get a bath so as to put their best foot forward for the breed.  If a foster is not available to attend, our dogs are taken to serve as ambassadors for the breed.  I always try to have one in coat there as most people have never seen an Apso in full coat outside the show ring.  Makes for some very interesting conversations with the most frequent comment being, “You must have to brush this coat daily!”  The big surprise is … I don’t do daily grooming!

We arrive early to unload and get set up — table display and dogs in place before the crowds start to arrive.  Looking across the large room, I see many exhibitors from past years and some new faces.  Later on, we’ll take a break and go visit the other booths … bronze statues, K9 photographers, pet crematorium, pet cemetery, dog bakery, canine massage therapist, to name a few.  All interesting when one has the time to browse.

Dante saying “hello” to a friend …

This year, we were one of the few rescues in attendance and probably the only rescue with dogs in tow.  Having Dante there in coat pretty much guarantees we’ll see a lot of traffic at our booth and this year was no exception.  I love talking to the kids and seeing their reaction when they get to pet him … the little girls are especially fascinated with him.  The parents laugh when I tell them that “my husband calls this my Barbie doll.”    We’re also quick to point out that the breed comes in a “wash’n'wear” version, showing them one in a puppy cut. 

The dogs are on their best behavior and clearly enjoy the interaction with folks stopping to chat.   Dante took a shine to one little guy and proceeded to clean the top of his head for him … much to the boy’s delight.  At one point, we had a line of folks waiting to greet the dogs.  The day winds down and we start packing up all the gear, already thinking how we can add to the experience for next year’s visitors.

All in all, it’s a great way to connect with like-minded members of the community and educate folks about this unique breed that shares our heart and hearth.

I get a great deal of email most days between my personal contacts, what’s generated by the various lists of which I’m a member, and what comes across for rescue. Every now and again, something is actually worth passing along. Today’s entry is just that …

Bob McMillan of the Herald-Citizen in Cookville, TN has written an great article on dogs, our relationship with them, and the need for training …

Nice dog, but you have to train him

While this is basically a repeat of last year’s post, the same information holds true for 2009!

Tibetan Apsos at an early show ...

Rocky Mountain Cluster: Once again, we’re gearing up for the largest dog show in Colorado … The Rocky Mountain Cluster held February 13-16 at the National Western Complex (Expo Hall), 4655 Humboldt in Denver. 

The Premium List, which contains information on the show, parking, maps and entry, can be found here … Premium List.  The actual times for judging and the ring numbers are not disseminated until just a week before the show.  

Show Schedule:   Saturday, Ring 6 at 3:00 p.m.; Sunday, Ring 7 at 9:30; Monday Ring 7 at 10:25.  Ring and show times on all the breeds can be found in the Judging Program.

If you’re thinking of attending, please be sure to give yourself plenty of time for parking, getting in the facility, and then finding the right ring and some chairs (rings are marked by numbers on tall poles). Parking, depending on where one finds an open lot, can run anywhere from $5 to $10 — and it may also be a long walk! Entry fee to the Expo Hall is $5.  Please note that dogs not entered in the show are not allowed on the site.  If considering crowds/parking, Friday or Monday would probably be the better of the four days to attend.

As the largest show in the region, the selection of vendors and their wares is pretty amazing … if it’s dog related, you’ll find it at this show!  From art prints, to clothing, to grooming supplies, to dog beds, to K9-related jewelry, to crates and tables, it will be at this show.  Might want to bring the plastic along (and keep in mind that the vendors start packing up on Monday for the return home).

Besides the conformation competition, one can also find other venues such as Rally, Obedience, and Agility.  These are generally held in the Events Center which fronts 47th Street.

Hope to see you there … it’s a great reason to come out and support the breed! If you need more information, please feel free to contact me at:  ApsoRescue@aol.com.

Loveland Pet Expo:  Now an annual event, ApsoRescueColorado will be attending Loveland’s Pet Expo on Saturday, February 28th at the Chilson Center from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This will be our fourth year in attendance. If we don’t have a foster dog ready for adoption, we’ll take a couple of our Apsos and use it as an opportunity to educate folks about the breed and rescue. If you’re in the area, please come by and say hello!

____________________________________________

The Apso is an ancient breed originating in the vaporous atmosphere of the Himalayan mountains.  As a landrace, its physical characteristics were developed by the very country it lived in … form following function.  The following article, first published in the late 70s, weaves an intricate picture of the breed. 

____________________________________________

 

CH Everglo Zijuh Tomba

I AM A LHASA APSO … 

By Ellie Baumann
Lhasa Tales ~ Nov 1977

I am a small dog whose ancestors managed to adapt to the rigors of the Himalayan plateau. The fittest survived, prospered and, eventually, some of the descendants reached this country in the early Thirties. I am descended from this stock. Adverse conditions high in the mountains of Tibet forced my evolution to follow paths on which other high altitude dwellers were also embarked. Since the area from which I came is an especially cold one with killing frosts as early as August, my body structure had to adapt to the cold as well as to the height of my homeland. I have a shorter tail, shorter limbs, and shorter ears than dogs who live in the tropics. My body is very sturdy and solid with short, heavy bones. I look as if I could go long distances and not tire easily.

Under my coat is a sound body that is quite heavy for its size. People are surprised when they find that under all that hair is an animal who is put together like a tank. I need heavy construction to stand the stress of cold and altitude.

I have not been in this country too long compared to some other dogs you see at a dog show, but those who already know what I look like will probably remember very clearly where you first ran into me. I am not like any other dog that you would meet on a city street or a county lane.

I have a long coat that stretches down to the ground and completely covers my feet. Some people call me the “Jelly Bean” dog because I come in all colors. I can be one solid color or a blending of several colors. I can be plain, or I can be spotted. Of course, with a long-haired spotted dog, the coat just keeps growing and the spot stretches out into a stripe instead. If that happens, I’m called a parti-color. I’m even brindled but again, as the coat grows longer and longer, those brindle lines all run together and you have something like layers of different colors – an overlay.

My head is a little hard to see sometimes for there is so much hair on it. I have a beard. Yes even our ladies are bearded – and my ears blend right into the beard and all the rest of the coat. And, unless the hair is out of my eyes, you wouldn’t know that I could actually see you for my eyes are well hidden by what my owner calls the “head fall.” My tail is generally up, carried in a curl over my back and it’s often hard to know if I really do indeed have a tail. It can be held so tight to my back that you don’t know that it is really there, until I straighten it out and stretch it out on the ground behind me when I sit down …

Sometimes I can be found in a pet shop, but I hope that if you go looking for a Lhasa, you will go to a breeder who is trying to produce the perfect dog rather than the one who is out to sell a litter a month or so many dozen puppies a year.

I am a breed that was raised to be an indoor dog. In Lhasa – the capitol of Tibet – I used to live in the palace of the Dalai Lama before the Communists took over, and in almost every big monastery in Tibet there were a lot of my relatives living right there with the monks. Some people call me the “The Holy Dog of Asia” because of this, but all that I really did was to keep the monks company in their lonely and cold cells. Some people say that I am the faithful dog who followed the Lord Buddha around and who could be turned into a ferocious lion in the twinkling of his eye. I guess that is why so many call me the “Lion Dog.”

The AKC Standard alls for me to be the golden colors of the lion, but the Tibetans say that their lion is the mythical snow lion who is always white with a blue mane. I haven’t seen any white Lhasa with a blue mane so far, so I guess we’ll just have to stick with the western idea of how a lion should be colored.

I can live a long time if you care for me properly and my breed generally outlives the great big dogs, like the Saints and the Danes, or the little ones like the Chihuahuas and the Pomeranians.

There aren’t any bad personality traits in my breed that have to be beaten out or trained out of me in order for me to live in close contact with all kinds of people. I have an even, obliging disposition.

Of course, when I’m going to a dog show, then I look super beautiful because that is first of all, a beauty contest, and I want to look my very best. But with general care and brushing, I can stop traffic on any street, for I am a beautiful, graceful and elegant animal.

 After all, I AM A LHASA APSO!!

_____________________________________________________

Editorial note:  Dog shows were originally started in the mid 1800s in England as a means of  evaluating breeding stock … a process which continues today.  It is not a “beauty contest” as noted above … although some might argue otherwise.  Dogs shown in conformation events are not being judged against each other.  They are judged against the written standard which outlines the “ideal” dog for that particular breed.  If interested in learning more about the dog show, AKC has an excellent resource … A Beginner’s Guide to Dog Shows.

Dogstardaily.com is offering a free .pdf download of Ian Dunbar’s “After You Get Your Puppy” book during the month of January!   Also available is “Before You Get Your Puppy”  as a free download at all times. 

Definitely a good deal in these thrifty economic times.  And thanks to DogStar for making them available!

There’s been a great deal of discussion making the rounds in the dog communities about a recent LA Times article wherein PETA is calling for the USA Network to discontinue airing the Westminster dog show. While I do believe in animal welfare — so much so that I’m deeply involved with rescue and have been for almost a decade — I do not buy into the animal rights extremist movement as it seeks to destroy the relationship between man and animal.

Libbye Miller, DVM, left the following in the comments section of the LA Times article and which content gives great pause for thought …

No one ever seems to mention the millions of dollars that AKC and the Canine Health foundation have invested in medical research that benefits ALL dogs as well as humans.

Adorable mixed breeds” get cancer, epilepsy, allergies, heart disease, and orthopedic problems just like purebreds. I see it every day in my veterinary practice but mixed breed dogs aren’t tracked like the purebreds so they have a reputation as “healthier” that is actually undeserved in many cases.  … 

Another poster — Debz — goes on to state …

“  … All animals have a certain amount of genetic load, which is to say there is absolutely no animal without some genetic problem of some sort of another. Know anyone who wears glasses? Has allergies? Thyroid problems? Weak knees? Flat feet? A skin condition? Arthritis? A gap between their front teeth? These are all genetic imperfections.

No human is genetically “clean.” Neither is any individual of any species on earth. So this idea that dogs should not be bred because they might have a genetic problem, and that breeders are somehow “evil” for breeding them, is ridiculous. Every single individual of every single species has at least a few genetic conditions.

To use PETA’s logic, all breeding of all kinds (including having human babies) should halt immediately. And to be honest, Ingrid Newkirk (the woman who founded PETA) does believe exactly that. She thinks that humans should become extinct, along with dogs, cats, etc. This ridiculous scenario is precisely what she would like to see happen.

So folks, if that is what you want … if you agree with Ingrid Newkirk’s whacky views, send your hard earned money to PETA. They will help to ensure you are not able to own a dog or cat or hamster or any other pet in the future. They will see to it that you can’t eat meat or fish or eggs or any type of animal-based nutrition. They will work to shut down places like Sea World, the zoos, etc. so you cannot observe the many wonderful animals on the Earth. Eventually, once they accomplish these things, they may turn their efforts to making it illegal for humans to procreate.

If you don’t agree with their extremist views, wise up and start supporting those who truly do love, care for and enjoy interaction with other species here on our little blue planet.

The fanciers of the breeds, those you see exhibiting their dogs at Westminster and other dog shows, work very hard to eliminate serious genetic conditions. They screen their breeding stock with every available test. They research pedigrees before breeding into other lines, to check for similar clearances in those animals. They contribute money to research organizations to further the work being done to track down genetic problems. They contribute blood, cell samples, etc. from their own animals to help with DNA and genome studies. They have made great progress so far, and they continue to work hard at it.   [Emphasis added]

Are there unethical breeders? Certainly, there are. Just as in any group of humans, you will find the good and the bad. United States VP Elect Joe Biden, for example, managed to find a not so good one when he got his new German Shepherd puppy. I don’t know who did his research for him, but they obviously didn’t do their homework if they were looking for a responsible breeder. Joe has the right to get his dog from whomever he wishes, but if he was trying to set an example of purchasing from a responsible hobby breeder he went off the track this time. That’s too bad, but it was his choice.

Unfortunately, breeders like that may be a lot easier to find because of their high volume and high profile. If you are looking for a nice family pet from a breeder who will be there for you forever, you need to do due diligence. You won’t get that from a pet store. You won’t get that from the guy selling dogs out of his pickup truck in the WalMart parking lot. You won’t get that support from a high-volume breeder, either. Yes, it takes a little more time and effort to find someone who really cares and does all the work to breed the healthiest, happiest puppies possible and then stands behind those puppies.

This is a living being that will be part of your family, hopefully, for many years. Isn’t it worth a bit of effort to find a breeder who will be there for you and that puppy forever?

And guess what? Shows like Westminster are a very valuable resource for finding breeders who do care and who use the best possible practices, as well as for learning more about the various breeds.

Bravo to USA Network for broadcasting the Westminster Kennel Club show all these years. May they enjoy continued success through the ongoing inclusion of such programs. I will be eagerly watching this year’s show!”

You can bet I’ll be watching as well!!   As pointed out in the above, there are “Breeders” seeking to preserve who expend a great deal of time, effort, passion and personal funding in order to produce sound, healthy dogs.  There also those “breeders” who seek only to capitalize on what can be produced with no regard for dog or purchaser past net profit.  As diligent owners, it falls upon us to distinguish between the two.

Westminster:  NIGHT 1:
Monday, February 9
Hound, Terrier, Non-Sporting and Herding Groups
8-9 p.m. (ET) live on USA Network
9-11 p.m. (ET) live on CNBC
NIGHT 2:
Tuesday, February 10
Sporting, Working and Toy Groups, Best In Show
8-11 p.m. (ET) live on USA Network

Breed judging highlight videos are available throughout the day on Monday and Tuesday on the Westminster Web site. These highlights will be available after the show.

When’s the last time you heard a song about a Lhasa Apso?  Probably … never.  If that’s the case, then I have a rare treat for you.  Canadian singer, Nancy Simmonds, has produced several CDs highlighting various breeds.  She’s done an excellent job on her research of the breeds, their characteristics and then weaving them into song.

One can hear Get Set Tibet in its entirety at StumbleAudio.com.  If you can’t access the song at Stumble, try the link below …

CD Baby: NANCY SIMMONDS: Musical Tails, 3rd Litter

 

Scroll down and then click on the play button (circle) to the far left — not the song title.  And then even further down on the left, you’ll find all the different “litters” listed …

 

This link shows all the different songs/breeds on each CD. 

 

CD Baby: Search results for “nancy simmonds”

 

One simply has to listen to the one about the JRT … ’tis a hoot!!  I like ballad-type songs and the following give fabulous “visuals” of the different breeds …

 

CD #1   Welsh Corgi  (probably my fav)

     #2   Basenji, Borzoi

     #3   Irish Setter, Saluki

     #4   Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, Newfoundland, Norwegian Elkhound

     #5   Samoyed

     #6   Viszla, Irish Wolfhound

     #7   Weim

     #8   JRT, Shih Tzu

 

Enjoy!

For several years now, we’ve seen and heard all the different news accounts of pets being made ill or out right poisoned by products manufactured overseas.  And it doesn’t stop with just products for animals … baby formula, pot pourri, toothpaste, sea food, toys … you name it.  In the interest of our health — and our pets health/well being — owners need to be hyperviligant about bringing in items manufactured outside the US.

The vast majority of our pets will be participating in Christmas with us.  Other family members include them in their holiday gift buying … and this is where we need to talk.  Many well-meaning gifters will not be aware of the contamination of products for our pets.  This is where you — as the owner — need to carefully inspect packaging for country of origin as well as overall safety of the item.  Read the label carefully — that country of origin is often buried in small print.  Does it have small pieces that can be chewed off and ingested?  It is a ball that a tongue can be caught in, cutting off circulation?  If your dog is a “heavy” chewer, can the item be easily destroyed and eaten?  If in doubt, get rid of it!  The toy or treat you toss out may just save you $$$$ in vet bills.

Santa Paws is coming!!

Dogs and chocolate. Dogs and high-fat foods.  All deadly combinations that are accessible during the holidays.  Chocolate is a known poison to dogs (especially dark chocolate and small dogs).  High fat foods can cause pancreatitis in dogs … an extremely painful and life-threatening condition.  Skip the fat, treat with veggies if one absolutely must (and not the veggies swimming in gravy!).

Santa Paws can continue to visit … just make sure that what he’s carrying in his sack is safe for those little ones (or not-so-little ones)!!

And, if you’re still feeding the ever-popular chicken strips to your dog, please read the latest update from the FDA as of December 19, 2008.

CH FFT Fernando

Just got word this afternoon that Dante’s littermate … CH FFT Fernando … took Best of Breed and Best Bred-by-Exhibitor at the Eukanuba National Dog Show in Long Beach, CA, with his breeder/owner/handler, Julie Timbers.

Best of Opposite Sex was CH Nothing But Trouble handled by Cindy Butsic. 

Shirley Clark and Paris picked up one of two Awards of Merit handed out.

Expertly handled by Julie, Fernando is a beautiful representation of the breed and well deserving of the placement.  Congrats to going out to Julie and Debby for this major win!

Dante says …. Go, Brother, Go!!!  And we’ll be keeping our paws crossed for a win in the Non-Sporting Group!