Lakewood, Ohio June 2009 Vol. 1 No. 2

Table of Contents


Introduction

Welcome to "Paw Prints", the newsletter of the Lakewood Dog Park! Summer is coming into full swing, which means a lot of people will be enjoying the dog park. While keeping most of the old columns, we have added a few more. We hope you enjoy reading it. To learn more, come to our meeting (see below), visit our website at lakewooddogpark.org, or drop us a line via email to topdog@lakewooddogpark.org


Park Meeting

Sunday, June 28 at 6:30pm

You are invited! We are having a Lakewood Dog Park meeting where you can find out about everything that is going on, as well as ask any questions you may have. We will have these meetings on a regular basis and you are encouraged to attend. The meeting will be held Sunday, June 28, 2009 at 6:30 pm in the Auditorium of Lakewood Public Library, 15425 Detroit Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107. It is open to all dog park members, anyone wishing to become a member, and anyone who wants to know more about the dog park. Annual membership to the Friends of the Lakewood Dog Park is $10 per person. The library's auditorium, located on the lower/basement level, is wheelchair accessible.

The tentative agenda for this meeting is as follows.

  • Membership / distribution of cards
  • Upcoming events / 4th of July parade
  • Revised Constitution
  • Veterinarian to speak
  • Questions and answers

We are pleased to welcome Bo Rog, DMV, a veterinarian with the Lakewood Animal Hospital, as the guest speaker. Bo will speak about health topics that are of interest to the dog park community. The presentation will cover a number of topics about canine health:

  • Allergies
  • Immunization / Vaccination
  • Communicable Diseases
  • Spay / Neuter
  • First Aid

Bo Rog, DVM: Born and raised in Lakewood Ohio, Dr. Rog attended Purdue University and Ohio State University for his undergraduate work, and graduated from the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1977. He served as a captain in the United States Air Force in Texas until 1980, when he then worked in an emergency clinic for two years. He spent the next 4 years working in a mixed practice in San Antonio, before returning home to join the staff of the Lakewood Animal Hospital in 1986. Dr. Rog has been married to Kathy, a Lakewood school teacher, since 1974, and they have 2 grown children, daughter Carrie and son Brady. They share their home with a cat, a dog, and a variety of fish.


Upcoming Events

We have four significant events coming up. Other events are listed on our webpage. Please check the www.lakewooddogpark.org for updated information and additional events.

T-Shirt and Bandana Sale June 20th

The t-shirts proved to be a hot item, so they are back by popular demand. And this time we have matching bandanas for the dogs! Stop down from 9am to 7pm on Saturday, June 20th to pick yours up. Click here to view a picture.

Quarterly Meeting June 28th

Dr. Bo Rog is coming to speak to us June 28th at 6:30pm. See the above article for more details.

Fourth of July Parade

We will be participating in Lakewood's 4th of July parade again this year! This popular event allows us to put our best foot forward by showing the community that we are an outstanding group of people and pups, and that the dog park is an asset to the community. And besides, it's a lot of fun for the people and the dogs as well. More information will be forth coming as the date approaches, so keep your eye out for the details (and make sure you are signed up to receive email from us). In the meantime, don't forget to pick up your t-shirt and bandana on June 20th so both you and your dog can look extra dapper walking in the parade.

Summer Maintenance Day July 11th

Volunteers and equipment are needed on July 11th (rain date July 18th) from 8am to noon to help maintain the park. Last time we did a lot of gravel moving. This time, while some gravel will need to be moved, we will focus on other activities such as painting. Please mark the date on your calendar so that you will remember to come down to help, but also, so that you will remember that the park will be closed during this period.


Recent News

  • Wow! We had an awesome turn out for our spring clean up. Close to 50 people showed up to help us move gravel. I know most people could have thought of other activities that they would rather have been doing, but with everyone's help, we really made a huge difference. Thank You! And the good news is that we are planning on keeping up with the gravel so that we don't ever have to move that much all at once again.
  • Lakewood is switching to a new garbage system with new, specially designed cans. You may have noticed them at the dog park already. We will need to work out the kinks of the new system with the city, but in the meantime, simply try to pick the least full can to dispose of your waste so one doesn't get too heavy. Thanks.
  • If you aren't aware of it, the dog park is involved in a lawsuit between Rocky River and Lakewood regarding noise. The trial is set for the December/January time frame. We will keep you updated about any developments, but in the meantime, we ask that you try to keep any barking to a minimum. We also ask that you respect the hours of the park. The park is open from 7am to 9pm on weekdays and 8am to 9pm on weekends. Thank you for your consideration.
  • The website was redesigned last year, and we are making a commitment to keep the information updated and current. If you are looking for any information about the park, please check on the website first at lakewooddogpark.org. You can find upcoming events listed, as well as photos of past events.


Health Watch

The Effects of Phthalates on Dogs

by Ray Burton

Phthalates (pronounced 'thal-ate') are used in the manufacturing of plastics to provide flexibility and elasticity to the products. Recently, scientific research has uncovered evidence that the chemical has dire effects on the hormone systems in all mammals including the family dog and cat. Phthalates mimic the action of estrogen, the hormone that provides females with secondary sexual characteristics. When phthalates enter the endocrine system, it causes the body to react as if it has received a dose of estrogen.

In humans, phthalates have been shown to cause early onset of puberty and the development of secondary sexual characteristics such as development of breast tissue in females, and a decrease in sperm production in males.

In canines, phthalates lower the ability of male dogs to produce sperm as well as causing changes in the tissue of the testes. In female dogs, fertility cycles are affected making pregnancy more difficult.

The best way to prevent these problems is to avoid toys that are at risk of containing phthalates. A quick search on the internet will reveal many sites selling phthalate free toys, as well as BPA (Biphenyl A) and lead free toys. When shopping, look to see where the toy is made, and avoid purchasing toys made in China, as they have still been found to be using the chemical in their toy production. Natural rubber and hemp based toys are good substitutions for plastic based toys.


Furry Friends Spotlight

Newfoundland (Bear and Mousse)

by Susan Sabik

Our "furry friends" in the spotlight this newsletter are Mousse (real name is Dark Forest Mousse) and Bear (real name is Berries and Cream). Bear is a 2 1/2 year old Newfoundland, and her big brother, Mousse, is 3 years old. They both came from a private breeder at Grand Paws Newfoundland Farm. Favorite pastimes for Bear include removing squeekers from any toy and starting trouble with her brother. Mousse enjoys long naps on the couch and being petted. These two enjoy the Lakewood Dog Park year round, however, they look a bit different these day with their summer haircuts!

The Newfoundland is a large, usually black, breed of dog originally used as a working dog in Newfoundland. They are famously known for their giant size and tremendous strength, and for their sweet dispositions, loyalty, and natural water rescue tendencies. The Newfoundland dog excels at water rescue, due to their great muscles and partly to their webbed feet and acute swimming abilities. Newfoundland dogs require grooming at least once per week (and frequently more often). They are extremely loving and patient, and Newfoundland puppies are laid-back and considered easy to housebreak. When it comes to physical strength, this breed is thought to be the strongest--even beating some characteristics of the Great Dane, Mastiff, or Irish Wolfhound.


Tis the Season of Moving

by Sarah Luikart

Tis the season of moving! Whether you are in the process of moving, or are preparing for an upcoming move, the following tips should prove useful in making the transition as stress-free as possible for man's best friend.

As territorial animals, a move for a dog can be very traumatic. Creatures that rely on their senses of taste, smell, sound and vision, have difficulty when presented with a completely new environment. But with a little energy put forth by the owner, and a little patience by all, a dog will adjust and go on to live a happy life.

While packing and preparing for the moving day, your dog will be anxious and confused. To avoid the stress during this time, create an area of your home as a "safe-haven" where all of his/her possessions (food, water, crate, toys, etc.) are located. Eliminate the clutter of boxes to ensure a comfortable, familiar environment.

Consider visiting your new home with your dog prior to moving day. This will give Fido an opportunity to explore without the clutter and volumes of people. Also, by making trips to the new home ahead of time, your dog will be less stressed following the move as he will recognize this as a familiar place.

Though it is easy to become overwhelmed prior to a move, make sure that you set aside adequate time to spend with your dog. The extra attention will keep his mind off of the hustle and bustle, and will simultaneously give you some much needed rest. This is also a perfect time to concentrate on command reinforcement. The commands and training will keep him focused, and a busy dog is a happy dog. Should your dog still show signs of stress, avoid babying him. Addressing the negative behavior by over-compensating with toys and treats will only encourage the unwanted behavior.

Prior to the actual move, you will need to confirm the safety of your new home. Make sure that this space is dog-friendly by removing harmful chemicals, cleansers, toxic plants and potential fire hazards. Ensure that there are no gaps in the fence, be mindful of new carpeting which often pose health concerns for dogs, and ensure that the stacked boxes will not fall if accidentally bumped.

On the day of the move, your dog should be moved last! While transporting the boxes and furniture, consider leaving him in his "safe-haven" area or consider boarding him at a familiar kennel. Once all of your other possessions have been moved, take time to establish a "safe-haven" at the new home. Ensure that his food, water, crate, toys, etc. are located in the same places previously positioned in your old home. Once his belongings are in place, go fetch your dog!

Remember: If your water will be coming from a different supplier, consider bringing water from your last residence, and gradually combining the old with the new. This will help to alleviate upset stomachs and digestive issues.

Once you arrive at your new home with your beloved dog, immediately provide him a treat or new toy. This will not only distract him and keep him calm, but he will begin to associate the new environment with positivity.

Consider introducing your dog to one room at a time. Allowing Fido to explore each room for a few minutes, prior to moving to the next room, will provide him with a much needed adjustment period. Reintroduce his "safe-haven" to him multiple times, and frequently show him the path from this area to the main door used when going outside. A safe and familiar path will eliminate the possibility of accidents in the home.

Additional Tips:

  • Make sure to continue your regular feeding and walk schedules.
  • Avoid leaving your dog home alone for the first few days as your presence is comfort in itself.
  • Upon the initial arrival to your new home, make sure you secure the dog's new tags and licenses to his collar.
  • Take frequent walks around the block with your pooch. Allow him to sniff around so that he becomes familiar with his outdoor surroundings as well.

Should you follow these suggestions, you will have the comfort in knowing that you have done your part in alleviating unnecessary stress to your best friend. While homes may come and go, a dog will forever be your constant companion.


Home Made Dog Biscuits

A quick and easy dog biscuit recipe you can make yourself.

by Ray Burton

Preheat the oven to 350 F

  • 2 tsp. dry yeast
  • 1/2 c. luke warm water
  • 2 Tbl. Dry parsley flakes
  • 2 tbl. Minced garlic
  • 1 1/2 c. chicken or beef broth
  • 3 Tbl. Honey
  • 1 egg
  • 5-6 c. whole wheat flour

In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Stir in the parsley flakes, garlic, broth, honey, egg, and the first 4 cups of the whole wheat flour. Stir until a smooth ball forms adding an additional 1 to 2 cups of flour until it is no longer sticky. Turn out on to a floured surface and knead for 3-5 minutes. Roll out until 1/4 inch thick and cut to desired size and shape. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet bake 25-30 minutes, take out of the oven, turn over, and bake an additional 15 minutes. Cool and enjoy. They may be frozen to preserve freshness.


A Look at the Rules

The Safety Spot

by Tamara Lentini

It is important to remember that while we want our dogs to have fun at the dog park, we also want them and the owners to remain safe while there, too.

Gates: Please make sure that when you enter or exit the park that you NEVER have both gates open or unlatched at the same time. This is in order to prevent the dogs from accidentally getting out of the park.

Leashes: Please try to remove your dog's leash PRIOR to entering the park. When dogs are leashed, they feel trapped when approached by other dogs and may lash out. Also, please remember not to run your leashed dog across the park. This may cause a tripping hazard to other people and dogs.

Children: Before allowing children to enter the park, ensure they know how to behave around dogs. It is not appropriate to scream, yell, run around or wave arms. It is also not appropriate for children to hold toys out of a dog's reach, i.e. over their head, etc, or to take a toy out of a dog's mouth. Children should not play on the ground in the dog park.

Food and Treats: Please refrain from bringing food or dog treats into the park. Not all dogs are allowed to have food/treats. The introduction of food or treats can cause aggressive behavior, and some dogs may have food allergies. Please enjoy your food outside of the gates and leave your dog treats at home for your dog.

Cigarettes: Cigarettes (and the filters) are poisonous to dogs. Dogs are at risk of sustaining burns from lit cigarettes. Please enjoy your cigarettes outside of the park. Cigarette butts should be disposed of properly and not thrown on the ground.



© 2009 Friends of Lakewood Dog Park