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Dogs of Veterans

Not quite Dog Nutrition News, but some touching and dog-heart-felt tributes to our soldiers returning home from Afghanistan: Happy Veterans' Day! Our thanks to all who've served and sacrificed.

New Big Dog in the Obama White House

It's officially official! After months of speculation and inuendo and rumor and little leaks (no pun intended), the Obama family has made it public. Their new dog, promised to Sasha and Malia Ann as a campaign commitment not to be broken, is Bo, a Portuguese water dog, a gift from Senator Ted Kennedy. He discovered it at the breeder where his own Portuguese water dogs are from; Bo had been returned to the kennel by the former owners.

Here for your information and entertainment is a variety of articles and videos about Bo, the new Big Dog in the White House.

From: The Washington Post; "Obamas Welcome Bo to the White House" (video)

From: The Washington Post; "A Shaggy Dog Story: How Bo Obama Wound Up with the Obamas"

From: MSNBC; "Bo Obama Comes Home to the White House"

From: The Daily Show with Jon Stewart; "Bo Obama: America's First Openly Gay White House Dog" (video)

From: CBS News; "It's Move-In Day for Bo the Obama Dog"

From: Salon: "Obama Makes a Speech, and Look...A Puppy!"

From: CNN; "First Dog Bo Meets White House Press Corps"

From: NBCWashington; "First Dog Bo Arrives at White House" (video)

From: HuffingtonPost.com; "Bo Obama: Pictures, Videos, Breaking News"

From: HuffingtonPost.com; "Welcome Bo Obama: The Wonderful Benefits of Animal Companionship"

(Photo courtesy of CNN.)

Pet Peanut Product Recall List

You'll need to either click "Pet Food Product Recalls" under "Topics on This Page", or scroll down a bit through all sorts of other lists, but here's an updated list of all the currently recalled Pet Peanut Products. We recommend that you take the slow road to assure yourself that you're not eating contaminated peanut products. You'll eventually reach "Pet Food Product Recalls" after viewing hundreds and hundreds of recalled peanut products. (Fortunately, Skippy SuperCrunch peanut butter isn't on the list!) But lots of other products are. For your dog's health, and the health of your family and friends, please take a few minutes to check out the big Peanut Product Recall List.

Pet Myths

You know all the old myths, right? That your dog makes rounds of her bed before bed to orient herself with the universe? That garlic prevents fleas. That dogs like to be petted on their heads. That dogs like tasty food? And so many more entrenched legends of pet ownership?

Here's an article on how "people food" might be okay for your pet. Along with six other popular myths circulating through the news-o-sphere might affect you and your dog (and other non-dog pets). You'll want to read "Is 'People Food" ever okay?" Check it out.

A Portuguese WaterHead Dog???

There's still no commitment! In an appearance last night on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, President Barack Obama wouldn't commit to the specific breed of dog that the Obama family soon will be introducing to the White House. Asked in a question by Leno if the choice is a "Portuguese Waterhead Dog", the young President demurred about the actual choice the family is making, but assured The Tonight Show host that the new dog will be home soon. You can watch the actual interview in the video below (the dog issue is about 45 seconds in). And answer the question after viewing: "what kind of dog will be arriving at the White House?".

Yes, some dogs display symptoms of ADHD (including a couple right here in the neighborhood!), as well as other "cries for help". And, increasingly, veterinarians are prescribing drugs -- yes, drugs! -- to deal with troubling behaviors such as incessant barking, separation anxiety, and aggressive practices and even violence. It's not something new. Drugs have been used for many years for extreme examples of aggression and violence. Sometimes it's the only factor between survival and being put down.

But now, ever-increasing numbers of animal behaviorists are recommending such drugs as Xanax and Prozac -- although in different dosages than humans take -- to help owners deal with undesirable pet demeanor. You can read more about this disturbing trend in National Geographic. The article makes the extremely valid point that, ultimately, owners have a tremendous responsibility to their pets and their communities. There's no simple solution.

What's It Gonna Be?

The Obama family is getting closer to choosing the promised dog! The First Lady revealed, in an interview with ABC's Jake Tapper, that the new First Dog may arrive in April. What's it going to be? Even better, what are the choices for its name? You can read lots more about the doggie dilemma in this article. Wanna make a bet?

Aggressive Training = Aggressive Dogs

It seems to have taken a full-on, year-long study by scientists at the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania to have revealed that aggressive dog training, or aggressive behavior by dog owners, contributes significantly to aggressive behavior in those dogs. Such behaviors as hitting or kicking the dog, growling at the dog, and "alpha rolling" the dog elicit aggressive responses.

On the other hand, "The study, published in the current issue of Applied Animal Behavior Science, also showed that using non-aversive or neutral training methods such as additional exercise or rewards elicited very few aggressive responses." In keeping with the theory that dogs have aspects of "human" intelligence, such as the all-too-human emotion of envy. You can read more about this interesting report from ScienceDaily, published February 17, 2009. You can find plenty of resources in the sidebars of this site to help you curb aggressive dog behavior; we welcome your business!

Books We Like

Are Dogs Getting Dumber?

If you have a goal to strive toward, you'll be energized and motivated to achieve that goal. If you don't have a vision of the future -- if you don't know which wall to place your ladder of success against -- you'll be enervated and complacent. If you have your every need and whim taken care of, you'll exert no effort or exhibit no intellectual curiosity. Is that what's happening with dogs? Especially the ultra-pampered, selectively-bred show dogs in the top echelon of dogs?

A recent study at Stockholm University suggests that, indeed, dogs are dumbing down as a result of modern breeding practices. In as little as just several generations, traits and instincts that were crucial to the survival of the breed are sacrificed for looks and show jones -- style versus substance. These practices, according to Stockholm University ethothologist Kenth Svarbert "...are affecting the behaviour and mental abilities of pedigree breeds, as well as their physical features."

You can read more about this theory in an article from The Sunday Telegraph of January 25, 2009. Or maybe it's simply that the dogs are watching too much television? Did they watch this show on CBS? (Photo courtesy of CBS)

Check out your dog's intelligence, in this canine I.Q. test.

Dog Skin Solutions

Author Linda Kajda shares her personal experiences regarding her dog Pebbles' skin care problems. Pebbles, a beautiful Pomeranian, began to lose her lustrous coat of sable-colored hair. Linda vainly went from veterinarian to veterinarian in search of a cure, until one diagnosed Pebbles with, among other things, Alopecia, a hormone-induced hair loss.

But the treatments didn't work. Pebbles continued losing her coat, until Linda decided to apply techniques learned in a body detoxification seminar to her beloved pet. All of us, our pets included, are subjected to an onslaught of toxins in our environments and in our diets. These toxins contribute to a plethora of health problems, including shortened life-spans!

Now, by reading and applying the lessons of Dog Skin Solutions in your life and that of your dog(s), you can restore and maintain optimal health. In this book, you'll learn how to use oatmeal (yes, OATmeal!) to prevent dandruff, how to "knock out" fleas in your environment, and how and when to use a comprehensive glossary of symptoms and possible causes of skin problems.

And, this book comes with three bonuses! When you order Dog Skin Solutions, you'll also receive "How to Control Your Dog's Shedding", "Pet Massage -- It Truly Works", and "How to Save a Fortune on Pet Supplies -- Without Sacrificing Quality" absolutely free! Order your copy today!

Heidi Sherburne Wins "Best Feature Story"

UPDATE: Heidi Sherburne, of Downeast Dog News, has been awarded the Best Feature Story award in the Dog Writers of America's 2008 writing competition. Her poignant remembrance of the death of her dog Timber is both an emotional journey that all dog lovers can identify with and a cautionary tale regarding the practice of veterinary medicine. You can read "The Painful Truth" here. Congratulations, Heidi, and thank you for sharing these painful memories.

Stump Wins Westminster Dog Show!

Ch Clussexx Three D Grinchy Glee, affectionately known as "Stump", a handsome Sussex Spaniel elder statesman, has won Best in Show at the world-famous Westminster Kennel Club 133rd Annual Dog Show in New York City. Stump is the oldest Best in Show winner in the history of the show, more than ten years old! More on this news here. And here. (Photo courtesy of Shannon Stapleton / Reuters)

Amazon eBook Reader: The New Kindle 2!

The Amazon Kindle 2, the second-generation ebook reader, is available for your order. It's as thin as a magazine, and weighs less than a paperback, and stores up to 1,500 books! With more than 230,000 ebooks available already, and an immediate download of 60 seconds or so, you can be reading the book of your choice in a minute! This is an amazing device, and a look into the future of publishing. You can order your copy of the Amazon Kindle 2 today for shipment on February 24th. Quantities are limited; don't wait to order so you won't have to wait to receive your Kindle 2!

A1 Dog Training Collection

If you're seeking a complete library of dog training and behavior resources, you need look no further than A1 Dog Training Program. This is a comprehensive collection of dog training and behavior ebooks, covering such subjects as training companion dogs, overcoming dog separation anxiety, your dog and your baby, and the original and revolutionary Harmony Program.

Plus, you'll find at this site a selection of free downloads and online reading materials on such topics as how to get people to come to your dog training classes, seven steps to solving dog behavior problems, and even how to find a good dog trainer or counselor. This collection represents a nice value in your dog training library! Order your copy of A1 Dog Training Program for immediate download today.

Westminster Dog Show: Two Days to Go!

The 133rd annual grand Westminster Dog Show is coming to New York, at Madison Square Garden, on Monday and Tuesday, February 9th and 10th. Television coverage will be broadcast from 8pm until 11pm both nights, as follows:

Monday, the 9th:

"Hound, Terrier, Non-Sporting and Herding Groups
8-9 p.m. (ET) live on USA Network
9-11 p.m. (ET) live on CNBC"

Tuesday, the 10th:

"Tuesday, February 10
Sporting, Working and Toy Groups, Best In Show
8-11 p.m. (ET) live on USA Network"

Schedule courtesy of Westminster Kennel Club. For all the details, including ticket information, entry rules, and the WKC Week Calendar, please enter here. Have a great time at the show!

Update: From msnbc.com, an article about the dog-friendliness of New York City during Dog Month

Downeast Dog News Nominated for Two National Awards!

Downeast Dog News, an informative and entertaining "...free monthly newspaper for people who love dogs" has been nominated for two awards by the Dog Writer’s Association of America 2008 competition. Heidi Sherburne, of Brunswick, Maine, has been nominated for her piece "The Painful Truth", an agonizing account of the slow painful death of her dog Timber.

Downeast Dog News is also nominated for its special publication “The Ultimate Guide to Dog Parks, Beaches and Trails in Maine,” The winners of the awards will be announced at a banquet on February 8th, the night prior to the opening of the Westminster Kennel Club's 133rd Annual Dog Show in New York City. We'll let you know what happens!

OnLine Training for You and Your Dog

When you want to learn what works on a particular subject, you may well want to turn to an industry that depends upon fast and proven results -- the entertainment business. Yes, in Hollywood, time is money -- big money. And with all the animals in the movies these days, producers need real expertise to help them with animal management. When it comes to dogs, many of them rely on Dove Creswell, a professional dog trainer from North Hollywood, California.

Dove has real credentials, having worked with dogs on such films as Sam's Lake and Saved!, and on television shows like Charlie's Angels. As you'll see when you go to Dove Creswell's Puppy Training & Dog Training Online, she walks you through seven complete lessons on subjects like walking politely on a leash, the recall, good manners and even some special dog tricks. She even offers a free sample lesson you can download immediately to see if her program is right for you and your dog. These are not eBooks, but professionally photographed online lessons showing you just how to help your dog get the most out of life! This program can be yours in just minutes. Order your copy of Dove Creswell's Puppy Training & Dog Training Online today.

Learn From Your Dog

Our dogs teach us much. What we learn from our pets ranges from the simple joy of unconditional love to life lessons in caring and protecting our constant companions. But did you know that dogs can be math teachers? There's more, as you can see in this unique video from msnbc.com.

Update: 2-6-09: From Frank Ferris, Dave the Math Dog's father: "I forgot to tell you when that vid was taken, Dave had no vision in his left eye. Since then, his left eye has been removed and sent to the U of I Vet Hospital for research. Dave is recovering just fine. If he feels good enough, he will go to an assisted living home for the elderly". You can visit Dave at davethemathdog.com.

PetSmart Recalls Peanut Butter Products

Our hats go off to PetSmart, which today announced that the company is pulling from its shelves all its products made with peanut butter, in light of the recent scare regarding salmonella in peanut butter. The move is purely precautionary, because no cases of salmonella poisoning have been reported. Nonetheless, we applaud PetSmart for taking the initiative to prevent any possible poisoning, either of pets or humans. Read more on the story here.

Update: More on the dangers to your dog(s) of peanut butter in today's (2-4-09) post on msnbc.com.

Update II: Dog in Oregon infected by peanut butter infected with salmonella (2-10-09).

Update III: More dog treats recalled (2-20-09)