HAPPY HALLOWEEN LOWCOUNTRY DOG READERS!

Upcoming Events

November 3rd

10AM-5PM
Stacey Howell Holiday Portraits at Palmetto Paws on James Island. By appointment only so please call and reserve your spot today. 843-216-3995

10AM-3PM
Southeastern Therapy Animal Resources Therapy Dog Workshop at the Franke Home in Mt. Pleasant. Advanced registration is required. Contact Barbara Dengler at fluffydogtherapy@comcast.net or call 843-849-8201 for more information

November 4th

Holiday Photo Session with Ashley Smith at Sunrise Park on James Island. Space is limited and spots are filling up fast so call Ashley at 843-509-1535 to make reservations. Be sure to visit her website lowcountryfocus.com to view her award-winning photography.

Dog Dating Video by The Meth Minute 39
via super cool e-zine Dig & Scratch

The funniest dog video I've ever seen. But be warned, I would say this cartoon is not for LCD's young readers. Send 'em out on a walk with the dog.

image via Slate.com

Unnecessary Veterinary Procedures

Is it possible to afford quality veterinary care for your dog without breaking the bank? Slate.com has an excellent article posted to day on how to say no to your vet when it comes to unnecessary treatments and tests. Here's an excerpt.

"But, with the same fervor displayed by the salesperson at the electronics store who encouraged me to buy the extended warranty on the clock radio, my local pet hospital has pushed me to sign up for its $440-a-year wellness plan, which will provide a full panoply of unnecessary vaccines, as well as dental cleaning, and twice yearly neurological, cardiac, pulmonary, blood, and fecal exams. Even in France, they don't do this for people...

It's just that if we're coming to the point that we think of our pet's health in the same way we do our own, I wish the vets I see would treat my pets more the way our doctors treat us. For example, over the years the pediatrician has heard a mild heart murmur when she has examined my daughter. But since my daughter is obviously in excellent health, the pediatrician has reassured me it's nothing to worry about. But when the veterinarian detected a mild heart murmur in one of my cats, she immediately recommended I make an appointment with the veterinary cardiologist. What would happen to the cat if I didn't do that? I asked. She had to acknowledge: probably nothing, but the echocardiogram only cost $300, and since my cat was a member of my family, surely I would want to do everything."

Click here for the rest of the article.

What do you think about this subject?

Halloween Flickr Fido

Check out these dogs in their creative costumes! Click on the links to see more from these photographers.




chris dabao



Aaron Edwards


swimeddieswim

Movie Weekend

This weekend I watched an adorable movie, The Year of the Dog, starring Molly Shannon. After the death of her beloved beagle "Pencil" Peggy, a mild mannered secretary, goes an incredible journey of self -discovery. In the end, she learns that the love she has for animals is enough for a happy life. I whole-heartedly encourage you all the watch this film, and check out the website too. The site is very entertaining and even has downloadable training tips.

All Great Dane Training Class Offered


South Carolina Dane Rescue has contracted with an ABCDT trainer to provide obedience classes at the rescue facilities. The first class will start on November 3, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. The cost of the class will be $95 per dog, or $150 for 2 dogs. Payment will be due prior to the first class. We are hoping to have an all-Dane class, so if you know any other Dane owners who would like training, please refer them to us!!

Contact Gloria at SCDaneRescue@aol.com for more info. Check out the rescue by clicking here.

Buddy

Shelby

Two Beautiful German Shepherds in Colleton Need Homes

Buddy is a 3 year old male German Shepherd. He has been neutered and treated for heartworm, so he is ready for his new home. He loves women, but he is somewhat reserved around men. Once he gets to know you, he is fine. Cats is an unknown, but he is fine around other dogs.

Shelby is over two years old, loves to run out-doors but is great in the house. She gets along fine with other dogs but might show a little too much interest in the feline variety. All in all, a great dog who loves people, is spayed, heartworm negative, and shot are current.

For further information, contact the Colleton Animal Shelter at 843-893-2651. Their hours are M T Th and F from 11am- 4pm Sat from 9am-12pm Wed and Sun closed. or call Aasta 843-763-0364 or norsk2u@comcast.net

National Shelter Week is Almost Here!

November 4-10, 2007 is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week; Shelters Rock! Nationwide Celebration Recognizing Shelters for Protecting Animals and Serving Communities

WHAT: National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week 2007
For the 11th year, The Humane Society of the United States celebrates National Animal Shelter Appreciation (NASA) Week in honor of shelters and their dedicated staff across the country, who serve an invaluable but often underappreciated role in America’s communities.

WHY:Animal shelters are a vital resource in their communities. A shelter is a safe haven for animals, a great place to adopt a new family pet, and many also provide emergency animal services, important resources for pet owners, and community education on humane issues.

WHEN:November 4-10, 2007 (the first full week of every November)

WHERE:National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week is celebrated coast to coast -- contact local animal control and sheltering organizations to find out what events might be planned, and what individuals can do to show support.

For more information about NASA Week, please visit: animalsheltering.org/sheltersrock

Halloween Safety Guide for Pets and their People

Some of these may seem obvious but it is important to stress safety when it comes to your significant other :)


1)As much as your dog may beg for some of your Halloween candy, always remember that chocolate can be deadly to them.

2)The wrappers, such as tin foil, can get stuck in your pets digestive tract and make them ill or cause death.

3)Dogs can have lethal tails (I know this from personal experience...Bryson), wagging all over the place. Don't leave any lighted candles or Jack-O-Lanterns where they could be knocked over by a swinging tail.

4)If you are going to dress your pet in a costume, keep in mind that unless your pet is extremely receptive to this kind of thing, you could be causing it discomfort and stress. Some animals don't mind at all but others do not want anything to do with this.

5)Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, yet they can produce gastrointestinal upset should pets ingest them. Intestinal blockage could even occur if large pieces are ingested.

6)IDs, please! Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification. If for any reason your pet escapes and become lost, a collar and tags and/or a microchip increase the chances that he or she will be returned to you.

All information provided by ASPCA.org and Halloween-safety.com

Upcoming Events

October 27th

6:30pm 3rd Annual Pet Helpers Fur Ball Gala. Tickets $150. See adoption page for more info or call (843) 795-1110.

3pm-5pm Palmetto Paws Halloween Bash Costume judging at 4:30 sharp! Tasty treats for you and your pet!

11am - 4pm 9th Annual Dolittle’s Howl-O-Ween Party. Games, Costume Contest for big prizes, food representatives from Wellness & free treats. Food and fun at the West Ashley location with cooking classes from Earthfare’s pastry chef. Professional photographer at the Mt Pleasant store. Howl-o-ween delights ready for the well dressed dog at the Summerville location.

October 31st

Growl-O-Ween Shih-tzu Reunion Party at Three Dog Bakery We're hosting a private Growl-O-Ween reunion party for 40+ rescued Shih-Tzu's. Complete with a store-to-store trick or treat and costume contest. Call 843-937-9895 for more info.

Ellen, the Dog Bullies and Me

Salon.com ran an excellent article by Heather Havrilesky on the sometimes difficulties of adopting a dog if you don't fit the perfect profile of an owner for many rescue and shelter groups. Here's an excerpt:

"I didn't think she was overreacting to the fate of her dog, I thought she was expressing anger and frustration at people who preferred to enforce their rigid policies in a situation that clearly called for flexibility and compassion." Sadly, we had a similar experience in Los Angeles when trying to adopt a dog."

Read the rest of the article here.

What do you think about Ellen DeGeneres' teary breakdown? What do you think about the sometimes strict policies of rescues and shelters such as fenced yards, approved age of children etc.? Are these rules arbitrary or there for a reason? Can they be bent? Just push the comment button below to let us know your thoughts.

Great Costume Ideas For Your Pet

Still looking for the perfect Halloween costume for your dog? Here are some great sites where you can shop for costumes and ideas for next week's holiday. Don't forget to send your Halloween pics to elizabeth@lowcountrydog.com!

Wiggle N Waggle
http://www.wiggle-n-waggle.com

BuyCostumes.com
http://www.buycostumes.com/CategoryPage/Pets_132.aspx

Pupdate

I just wanted to write an update on Chelsea and Bryson and how they have been. Bryson is continuing to fill out and become...a dog! Chelsea, still as puppy as ever is also starting to fill out (around the middle). Next week we are dressing them up for a Halloween Party. Bryson is going to be Manny Ramerez from the Boston Red Sox. We have not chosen a costume for Chelsea yet so feel free to comment with any ideas :) You can also send me your pics of your pooch all dressed up for Halloween and I will post them on the blog on October 31st. You can email them to me at elizabeth@lowcountrydog.com. Thanks!

Upcoming Events

Friday, October 19th

7:30PM Ghostly Tide Movie at the Isle of Palms Rec Center. Bring the whole family, even your dog, for a ghoulishly good movie. Contact 843-886-8294 for more info.

Saturday, October 20th

West Ashley All is Well Open House. Lots of canine and human treats and refreshments. Call 843-573-2288 for more info.

Noon-3PM Wild Heir Lab Rescue Meet and Greet at Kreature Comforts at Shoppes at Seaside. Stop by and meet Labs for available for adoption and learn about foster and volunteer opportunities. Call 843-388-2515 for more info.

Hilton Head Humane Association Adoptions at PetSmart in Bluffton.

Sunday, October 21st

Hilton Head Humane Association Adoptions at PetSmart in Bluffton...day two...

11AM-3PM JASPCA Paws in the Park at Hampton Park. $10/dog. Humans free. Games and activities for the entire family, including our four legged ones. Visit www.jaspca.com for more info.

Dogs in Danger

Thanks to Karen at Pet Agreed Dog Training who told us about this interesting site, www.dogsindanger.com. This website is dedicated to the dogs on shelter euthanasia lists and promotes adoption of these dogs before they are put to sleep. There aren't any dogs listed in our area, but it's worth keeping an eye on.

Upcoming Events

Wednesday, October 10th

Palmetto Paws Yappy Hour at Red's Ice House. Great items will be raffled off with all proceeds going to Lowcountry Lab Rescue! Dog refreshments courtesy of Palmetto Paws and Good Dog Bakery.

Saturday, October 13th

11AM-5PM
Daniel Island Park Day! Children's park, pet park and more! Admission and parking are FREE. Exciting events, fun games, pet related vendors, food and music.

11AM-4PM
Grand Opening Howl-O-Ween Bash at My Three Dogs (418 King St) Treats, costume contest, local rescue groups, health seminar, and free coupons. Call 843-884-8818 for more info.

11AM-3PM
Palmetto Animal League 2nd Annual Shelter Party and Treat Fest at Oscar Fraiser Park in Bluffton. This event welcomes pet owners, pet lovers and of course, pets. Call Amy at 843-247-2691 or visit palmettoanimalleague.org for more info.

5:30PM
The Blessing of the Animals at Congregation Beth Yam. 4501 Meeting Street, Hilton Head.

Beautiful Vizsla Needs a Home

Cooper, a 12 month Vizsla pup, needs a good home. He's been rescued from a shelter and is doing well. He's putting on weight and it looks like he will probably top out at about 60 pounds. He is very sweet and patient, allows his foster mom to clip and dremel his nails like a gentleman. He is learning manners and will sit on command. His foster mom tells us she is still working on "mouthing" & getting him to stop jumping on people, so he would probably be best suited in a home without small children though he does get along well with other dogs. He is showing some hunting skills and likes to "point." The above photo is an early one. He's put on close to 10 pounds since it was taken.

Contact Barbara vizlhavn@comcast.net for more info.

Spaniel Mixes Need a Home!

These two male pups were found running on the side of the road on Wadmalaw yesterday. They appear to be some sort of cocker/springer/boykin Spaniel mixes and are probably less than a year old. They are painfully thin and very matted. They have been bathed, but still need plenty of TLC. Michelle and Beth, who are currently caring for the dogs are both leaving town this weekend and are desperate for help! At least for the weekend...Please contact Beth if you can spare a bit of room this weekend - crate will be provided. Beth Griffin - 722-3303

The French Hare Gallery and Galleria Announces
Three Day Portrait Event to Benefit Dee Norton Lowcountry Children's Center

Charleston, SC - October 13, 14, 15, 2007 - Renowned portrait artists Susan Westwood, painter, and Susan Lucas, photographer, will hold a special event this coming weekend at the French Hare Gallery, 418 King Street, from 11-5 Saturday, 12-4 Sunday and 11-5 Monday. Westwood will sketch charcoal portraits in the courtyard for the special price of $50 per subject. Lucas will take mini-portrait sessions free of charge, and show the results at Design Walk on Thursday, October 18th, where photographs may be ordered at a special price in time for Christmas gift-giving.

Subjects may be babies, children, adults and pets. A portion of the proceeds from all portrait sales will benefit the Dee Norton Lowcountry Children's Center, whose mission is to reduce the incidence of child abuse and its impact on the child, family and community.

About Susan Lucas
Susan Lucas has been making intimate, painterly photographic portraits of children since 1998 in Boston, New York and Charleston. Her work is on permanent display at The French Hare Gallery and Galleria.

About Susan Westwood
Susan Westwood's portraits are commissioned through galleries in New Mexico, Colorado, Charleston, SC and England. Her dreamy, sometimes whimsical charcoals and oil paintings of children make her a popular choice for discriminating clients.

About The French Hare Gallery and Galleria
Located in Charleston's Upper King Design District, the French Hare offers home decor, fine art and gifts. It's Charleston... with a French accent.

For additional information or questions contact Susan Lucas, 843.303.1113

Flickr Fido

Click on the links to check out more memorable moments by these photographers...Neville_S


smurph2010
Altweibersommer
lulu.photo
logomomo

Tips to Create a Safe Halloween for Fluffy and Fido
American Animal Hospital Association

Halloween can be a frightening time for pet owners across the country. It can be scary for our furry friends too. The American Animal Hospital Association encourages pet owners to protect their four-legged family members this October by being mindful of their F.E.A.R. – food, environment, attire, and recovery.

Food
Halloween means candy and tasty treats are plentiful and easily accessible to young children and pets. Candy, especially chocolate, is toxic to animals and can cause vomiting, restlessness, heart disturbances, and even death. Although grapes and raisins are a healthy alternative snack for humans, they can be potentially deadly for dogs. These fruits contain an unknown toxin that can damage dogs’ kidneys and cause kidney failure.

Candy wrappers can also cause health problems. Animals may eat the wrapper, causing obstruction or irritation to the pet's digestive system. Candy and wrappers should be kept out of pets’ reach and young children should be taught not to share Halloween goodies with their pet.

Seasonal foods such as pumpkins and corn may cause minor stomach irritation; however, they are relatively safe for Fluffy and Fido. Pumpkin seeds may cause digestive system obstruction if consumed by smaller animals.

Environment
Due to the increased foot traffic and commotion in your neighborhood, outdoor pets should be kept indoors during the days surrounding Halloween. Unsupervised outdoor animals are susceptible to stress, inhumane practical jokes or theft. Providing a safe, stress free environment reduces the probability of your beloved friend injuring himself or others.

Loud and excessive noise created by trick-or-treaters can frighten your cat or dog. Animals should be kept away from the door and out of hearing range of a constantly ringing doorbell and excited children. Fluffy or Fido should be put in a room where they will not be disturbed by noise and activity. A frightened or upset pet may run out the door at the first opportunity and could harm the children in its way.

Be sure decorations are safe from the paws and teeth of curious pets. Crepe paper streamers, fake cobwebs, glow sticks, plastic spiders and cardboard wall hangings can easily be chewed and swallowed, damaging your pet’s digestive tract. Animals can also tip over the candle in a jack-o-lantern and burn themselves or start a fire. Keep decorations out of animals’ reach, and maintain supervision if they play nearby.

Attire
Transforming your pet into a superhero, witch, ghost, or goblin can be a stressful and unpleasant experience. Some animals love to dress up, but others dread it. If your furry friend doesn’t mind dressing up, make sure that you select a costume that doesn’t restrict his normal movements, breathing or vision. Costumes that interfere with these things can cause ligament or joint injuries, and animals are more likely to bite if their vision is impaired.

Pets are better off left at home during trick-or-treating excursions. However, if they do tag along, it is best to keep them on a very short leash and harness to keep them from fighting with other animals, eating the treats, becoming victims of practical jokes – as black cats often do – or biting strangers they encounter.

Recovery
It is important to have a plan if your pet becomes sick, injured or lost this Halloween season. Since time is critical during any unfortunate incident, pet parents should always have contact information for their veterinarian and local animal shelters easily accessible. Also, pet owners need to be aware that not all veterinarians are available 24 hours. However, all AAHA-accredited hospitals have access or referral to 24 hour emergency care.

It is also important to update your pet’s identification tags and micro chip information each time you move or change phone numbers so that current contact information is always available on your pet.

The American Animal Hospital Association wishes all two and four-legged critters a happy and safe Halloween.

Established in 1933, the American Animal Hospital Association is the only organization that accredits veterinary practices throughout the U.S. and Canada for dedication to high standards of veterinary care. More than 3,000 AAHA-accredited practices pass regular reviews of AAHA’s stringent accreditation standards that cover patient care, client service and medical protocols. For pet care information or referral to an AAHA-accredited practice, visit www.healthypet.com

Abby Needs A Home.

Click on the photo below for a closer look at this great dog!

World's Smallest Dog

Click on the link to see a video of the the new Guinness Book of World Records "World's Smallest Dog" (and cutest if you ask me) on CNN.

Pupdate

On this rainy Wednesday afternoon, we came home to our two labs Bryson and Chelsea running wildly around the house. They clearly needed to let out some energy. Since letting them out in the backyard would only result in muddy dogs, a muddy house and an even muddier shower, we decided to go play tennis in the rain and bring the pups along to run around on the tennis court. Since it was raining, there was no one playing who could get annoyed by the dogs.

We (the humans) had a lot of fun playing tennis in the rain, but not nearly as much fun as Bryson and Chelsea did being "ball dogs". Just like ball girls and boys would in real tennis matches, Bryson and Chelsea sat on the side lines and waited for balls to go off the court. They would then run and retrieve the balls and then go back to their position on the side lines.

However, sometimes Bryson couldn't help himself and would run in front of a serve that had just gone over the net and intercept it. We played for about an hour in the pouring rain until both dogs lay down in puddles, exhausted from this massive game of fetch. After returning home and toweling off, the two dogs slept the remainder of the afternoon :)

A word from Marley, a rescued dog from the JASPCA with a true survivor's heart

Dear Friends,

My heart is overwhelmed with feelings of gratitude. I can not believe how many of you turned out for my first birthday! Together we raised $ 4,000 for the John Ancrum SPCA and their Injured Animal Program!!!
On behalf of the other 11,000 animals taken to the JASPCA yearly...I thank you for making a difference!

Woof, Woof... hope to see you next year!
Marley

Upcoming Events

Friday, October 5th 6-8PM
Greyhound Meet and Greet at Paws Pet Boutique in Freshfields Village with Greyhound Pets of America Adoptable greys will be on site.

Saturday, October 6th
"Walk for the Animals"
Park Circle, North Charleston
WEZL 103.5 TJ and the Morning Crew’s “Walk for the Animals” $10 entry fee per dog.
Join hundreds of animal lovers and their pets as we walk around Beautiful Historic Park Circle in Olde North Charleston to raise awareness and funds for the John Ancrum SPCA’s new state-of-the art facility. This new 31,000 square foot shelter will provide high-quality care, triple adoption facilities and expand our education services to the community. The new building features indoor climate controlled rooms and kennels, expanded surgical suites and a community room open for use by the public. Visit www.wezl.com or www.jaspca.com for more info.

Saturday, October 6th 10-2PM
Lowcountry Golden Retriever Rescue will be at Freshfields Fall Festival near Kiawah. Stop by, Hug a Golden, and learn about our organization. Members will be on hand taking adoption and foster applications.
Contact: 571 - 7177

Saturday, October 6th 10-2PM
"Rescue Row" at Paws Pet Boutique in Freshfields Village
Saturday October 6th 10am-2pm
"Rescue Row" at Paws Pet Boutique in Freshfields Village
Thinking about getting a new best friend or adding a second?? The following Rescue Groups will be available for you to talk with and also have adoptable dogs for you to meet.
Coastal Jack Russell Rescue
Greyhound Crossroads
South Carolina Search and Rescue Dogs
Lowcountry Golden Retriever Rescue
Pet Helpers Animal Shelter
Greyhound Pets of America
Carolina Basset Hound Rescue
Lowcountry Lab Rescue
Grateful Golden Rescue

Saturday October 6, 5-7PM
"Dog"toberfest at Juanita Greenbergs (439 King Street)
Get your "leasher-hosiens" ready! Dogs, beer, live music, a raffle to benefit the JASPCA, and yappetizers from Three Dog Bakery. Rain Date Saturday October 20th.